The teams took the field on a great day for rugby, unfortunately the Elks lost 4 players through illness and injury before the game.

This gave the opportunity for some new faces to begin their first game for Ilkeston.
It was to prove a tough first encounter.
Matlock began well and made ground with some great drives from the forwards particularly the Matlock No8 who had a strong game throughout.

Matlock scored first in the left hand corner and the conversion was just missed.
The Elks battled back against a big Matlock pack and looked dangerous when getting the ball out wide, on one of these occasions the ball was shipped well through the backs to allow Nathan to show his pace and score in the corner, the conversion was unsuccessful.

Matlock came back strong and scored a second try under the posts before half time which was converted to leave the half time score at 5-12

Further injuries left the Elks with a very inexperienced side in the second half and Matlock took full advantage with their forwards dominating long periods of the game, despite some heroic tackling from Max, Billy and especially Harry (who tackled superbly all game) Matlock ran in 4 further tries 2 of which were converted.Final score 5-36

The Elks did have some opportunities especially through Nathan who showed some blistering pace on the wing and only two good tackles prevented Nathan from adding to the score.

Overall the lads should not be too disappointed as they came up against a very good Matlock side. Some tackles were missed in the second half but this happens when you are under pressure.

Well done to the new lads Will, Connor & Jack who tried hard and will get better with the more rugby they play.
Ethan & Jack M came on in the second half and tried hard as did Zac playing out of position at hooker!

We learn far more from defeats than victories and the lads now know the required level of effort needed both at training and on match days to enable them to challenge some of the better sides we play.

Heads up lads see you on Thursday.
Nick