Sat 7 Sep 2019
This weekend Pavs 1stxv began life in Midlands Premier with a tough away fixture at Burton RFC. Having had an excellent pre-season against higher league opposition, coach Nathan Eggleshaw and his young squad were anxious to get going in the league programme and see what life was like in a higher standard than Pavs have experienced for some time.
Pavs were able to field an almost full strength Xv and arrived at Burton in good heart. From the kick off Pavs assumed ascendancy with their usual vim and vigour. After 14 minutes wing Will Taylor rounded off a fine sweeping move to touch down in the corner with fly half George Billam adding the extras to give Pavs a 7-0 lead. The away side continued to pile on the pressure. After 24 minutes scrum half Jonty Green dived over following a huge forward effort in an extended driving maul. Burton began to grow into the game with several attacks that Pavs were fortunately able to repel. Six minutes later George Billam ghosted into score whilst also adding the extras to give Pavs a 17-0 lead. This further galvanised the Burton side with only Pavs concerted and determined defence keeping them at bay.
Following the break honours were shared with both sides fighting for the first score. On 55 minutes Pavs swept into the Burton half and following sixteen or so phases got the ball to wing Alex Barton with still a great deal to do. Using a combination of pace and power he was able to squeeze in the corner before being bundled into touch. Again Burton struck back with strong running before Pavs were able to snaffle a ball in midfield. Skipper Doug Billam jinked his way over to give Pavs a 31-0 lead with 25 minutes or so to go.
It is clear that sides in this league do not ever lie down, Pavs suffered a few injuries and a yellow card and Burton were back in it. The home side scored 3 tries in the last 12 minutes before the referee’s whistle signalled the end after what seemed an eternity. Pavs ran out winners 31-17.
So Pavs were pleasingly able to register a bonus point win first time out. The squad recognise that every game in this league will be a stiff challenge. They have taken a first successful step on the journey and now look forward to welcoming Doncaster Phoenix to Burntstump next Saturday 14thSeptember.
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