Shelford 29 – 24 Barnes (written by Alex Birkby)

Shelford left it late to secure a home win at the Davey Field against a spirited Barnes side who fought all the way to the final whistle. Shelford started strongly and concerted pressure through the forwards yielded two early penalty attempts for fly half Harry Owens which he duly converted. Barnes’ response was swift and hooker David Rogers powered over from close range after good work from his forward pack.

The lead changed hands twice in quick succession as the lively Luke Sayer wriggled free down the right for Barnes’ third try before Owens knocked over a penalty for Shelford to reclaim the lead. A tiring Barnes defence facilitated two quickfire tries for Shelford, which sealed the result in their favour. Substitute back rower John Hall twisted through the Barnes defence before stretching out to score and then Shelford flyer Taniela Bakoso confirmed the result with an easy run in after uncompromising work from the Shelford eight. Barnes had the final say as Butler claimed his second score of the match, but it proved to be too little too late as Shelford’s strong start to the season continued.

Half-Time Score: Shelford 16 - 12 Barnes

Shelford Scores:

T: Ransom (35), Hall (77), Bakoso (80)

C: Owens (36)

P: Owens (4,11,39,68)

Barnes Scores:

T: Rogers (11), Butler (30 & 84), Sayer (57)

C: Gower (19,30,85)

Star Man: James Armitage (Shelford)

Referee: Nick Williams

Attendance: 241