Though Stags could justifiably claim that 36 points was not a true reflection of the balance of play and that they were on the wrong end of some refereeing decisions, this was nonetheless a depressing afternoon against a Stewarts and Lloyds side that were workmanlike up front but should otherwise have posed no real threat to any capable and organised defence.
The fact of the matter, though, was that Stags leaked five tries, two in the last few minutes, while their own tally, with some 55% of possession, was a single penalty.
In 10 league matches Stags have scored 122 points so it is little wonder that with just two victories relegation is an unpalatable possibility.
Stags had the wind and slope in the first half yet after 10 minutes were 8 – nil down. Stags pulled back 3 points, camped in Stewarts and Lloyds half and had two ‘tries’ disallowed, the second for a forward pass that to most observers looked legal. In virtually their only attack in this period Stewarts and Lloyds scored a converted try following a five metre scrum awarded after a speculative kick brushed a Stags player en route to in goal. 15 – 3 to Stewarts and Lloyds at half time.
Until the last ten minutes the second half was even though, in truth, Stags lacked width in attack and continuity to trouble the hosts. Stewarts and Lloyds kicked a penalty, scored a try from a rolling maul and two further tries at the death as Stags crumbled and threw in the towel.
Stags now have two home games before Christmas. At least one win is essential otherwise 2007 will look bleak.
Northampton Mens Own visit on 9 December, kick off 2.15 p.m
.Damo's Man of the Match:
A strong performance from the Stags backs was the difference in a hard fought match at St Ives. Excellent defensive work from all players kept a clean sheet in the first half and saw Stags take a 19 point lead going into the break. A hat-trick of tries from Paul Lawrence earned him the Man of the match, Chris Charalambous went over for his first try for Stags, well done Chris. Thanks to Keith Golightly for hooking for St Ives after they lost players to their 2s.
Firby goes to Sid Millar (2nd row) for his attempted clearance kick inside his own 22 which happened to hit one of his own team mates on the back, Next week sees the last home game before Christmas against Biggy with all three Huntingdon teams playing at home.
