Missed tackles prove costly (From Stroud News and Journal)

Missed tackles prove costly

Walcot 24 Stroud 12

STROUD travelled to Walcot on Saturday and came away defeated in a game they could, and probably should, have won.

Walcot took the lead after three minutes when Stroud were penalised for taking a man out. Walcot extended their lead six minutes later when, after several missed tackles by Stroud, they crossed for an unconverted try.

Stroud came more into the game after this and, in the 18th minute, a solid scrummage ensured quick ball for the backs and Brian Pearse scampered over for an excellent try which was converted by Josh Lister.

Dominance

Stroud were dominating the scrums and the lineouts but were unable to turn this into more points. After a lengthy stoppage for an injury to Luke Dando, Stroud were penalised for crossing and Walcot kicked the penalty.

Worse was to follow deep into injury time as Stroud conceded another penalty which Walcot again kicked to make the half-time score 14-7 to the home side.

Stroud started the second half in positive mood with the wind behind them and, after Lister had missed a penalty for offside at a ruck, a score duly arrived. Jesse Owens started the move with a kick downfield which was gathered by Julian Harry. He fed Rich Williams who crossed for an unconverted try.

Walcot raised their game after this and on 46 minutes were denied a try by a forward pass with the Stroud line at their mercy. Four minutes later Walcot were denied again when, after more missed tackles in midfield, the Walcot winger was bundled into touch by the corner flag.

On 53 minutes, Walcot were gifted a try when a wild pass from substitute Darren Eagle was gratefully accepted by a Walcot forward to cross in the corner for an unconverted try.

Stroud came back again after this setback but their tackling was still giving cause for concern. On the hour, Walcot broke through the Stroud defence again and only a crunching last ditch tackle by Eagle prevented a certain try.

Walcot were not to be denied, however, and ten minutes from time, after more weak tackling by Stroud, they crossed for another unconverted try to make the final score 24-12.

u THIS Saturday, Stroud attempt to get back to winning ways when they entertain Yatton at Fromehall Park, kick-off 2.30pm.