Despite conceding 10 points and a shedload of penalties in the opening 15 minutes, Stags fought back with determination to record their third victory of the season.

Bugbrookes tries came from a rolling maul and by their centre following a quick free kick. Stags, with the slope, had their fair share of  possession and territory but whenever they achieved an attacking position an error or an opposition penalty (eight plus a  free kick in the first 20 minutes) drove them back.

Stags kept going, however, and just on the interval Charlie Cook finished off a clean sharp break by Quentin Minnaar. Elliot Baldwin converted and 10-7 at half time looked far better than had seemed likely earlier in the half.

It was better still a few minutes later when Tom Beattie touched down for a forwards try, 12-10 to Stags.

A crucial period followed: Bugbrooke attacked and Devon Brown was sin binned. Another home penalty and Benny Giglio followed Brown. Stags down to 13 men. Desperation stakes as Bugbrooke pounded on the line but Stags held firm and managed to get a foothold in the home 22.  A lineout was won, another drive and a try for Devon Brown, just back from the bin.

Though not in total command, Stags were now largely in control aided by improved rucking and some deft and effective kicking from Neil Welsh, playing at stand-off. From one of these kicks Bugbrooke made a mess in defence and Simon Orange, following up, hacked on, won the race for the touch-down and Baldwin converted well.

After the recent points drought, four tries were riches indeed for Stags who will look for more of the same against Daventry at Hinchingbrooke on 3 February, kick-off 2-15 pm.