Relegation worries increase (From Stroud News and Journal)

Relegation worries increase

South West Two West Stroud RFC 3 Truro RFC 17

THE dismal weather wasn't brightened by victory as Stroud slipped into relegation trouble

Scott Martin secured the traditional first penalty against Stroud, but Julian Harry levelled soon after. Truro pressurised further and won another penalty that Martin slotted, this seemed to wake Stroud up who started to make their bigger forwards tell. Ed Crampton was put clear but a brave diving ankle tap brought him down when he set for a try.

Probing kicks along the line pushed Truro back and it seemed only a matter of time before control would turn to points. It wasn't to be. Against the run of play a solid fifty metre defensive Truro clearance was never going to find touch. A rush of blood to Lyle Robertson's head saw him try to boot the ball back downfield on the volley.

He struck fresh air instead and as the ball whistled past him, so too did two Truro players who had followed up. Tom Butt made no mistake scoring in the corner.

Although still in the first half this was a turning point as the conditions would dictate the outcome.

Nevertheless, Stroud camped inside Truro's half for long periods and one strong attack prior to half time almost put Rob Davey over but the ball was lost as he dived over.

A change of shirts at half time brought little fortune with Truro 11 - 3 ahead. An astute kick wide over Truro's defence was almost caught on the line by Crampton but this opportunity was the exception as play became fragmented with knocks and bumps to both sides.

Rarely did Truro threaten, however Stroud all too often gifted the ball away in contact or simply surrendered possession in valuable positions.

On the other hand, the boot of Martin punished the only opportunities Truro secured throughout the half, two ill-disciplined penalties.

The introduction of Steve Bewick, Rupert Wakefield and John Wand brought fresh legs and belated hope, but it was too late.