GOOD IN PARTS BUT OTHERWISE IGNATIANS ARE SECOND BEST IN DERBY

ENFIELD IGNATIANS IIs 19 CHESHUNT IIs 39

Saracens had been originally pencilled in for this clash but, after they cried-off in mid-week, Cheshunt stepped up to the plate, and on the field, too, as they clear daylight between themselves and Ignatians in an entertaining Derby clash.

Playing well in parts, Ignatians blew hot and cold. It was he more cohesive Cheshunt who claimed the first two tries of the game despite some dogged defensive sets from the home side, which did at least an elicit a positive response from one of Ignatians’ best players, Paul Duke, who went over in the corner.

However, sustaining their momentum did prove problematic for Ignatians and, in a poor spell in the ten minutes preceding half-time, the hosts paid the price for some poor tackling, and it resulted in the blue and golds shipping a further two tries as Cheshunt established a clear lead.
It was a similar story in the early part of the second-half when the visitors crossed again, as Ignatians were left with a mountain to climb.

If there was a silver lining to be had it came in the form of a rally in the last half hour, when Ignatians at last found their range, with Paul Duke again proving a key catalyst in a brace of consolation tries, which saw another outstanding presence, Alex McCall, claim the hosts’ second try.
Dukey also featured in the build-up to Ignatians’ third and final try which was finished off by Louie Sellick.

A mention, too, must also go to the kicker and promising young talent, Ben Roper, as he added two conversions as Ignatians’ gained a modicum of respectability.

Captain Ken Carroll said: “Our thoughts are very much with Lucas and his family and friends, so the Man of the Match award doesn’t apply this weekend, but, in normal circumstances, it would be a toss up between Alex McCall and Paul Duke (PICTURED).

“Alex delivered a ‘Lucanesque’ performance which came in the form of an estimated 17 carries, whereas Paul Duke not only scored a try but was also a key catalyst in two others. Although Alex did hobble off towards the end after hurting his ankle.

“Special mentions, too, to Mason, who tackled like a demon, whereas Jake Baker also had a good game. Sean Bucknall sustained a cut head during the game and was forced off.”