A changed side yet again saw first games of the season for Gary Franks, Carl Oakland and Deano Chapman.
The Elks kicked off against the wind and were first to take play into the Derby 22 with some dominant forward play led by Browny and Deano. Gary Franks was performing well in the line out, which was a huge improvement on last week's farce.

Both sides were battling for the upper hand, but The Elks struck first when Adam Walker collected a defensive kick to jinx pass on rushing defence to score next to the posts, Boothy converted.

Derby responded well and soon levelled the scores with a well worked try which was converted.
The game ebbed and flowed between each halves, with neither side being able to dominate. The Elks took the lead once again, when Jon D burrowed his way over the Derby try line, Boothy once again converted.

Derby once again responded well and after sustained pressure, the ball was worked wide for the winger to score. The conversion attempt came back off the posts to see the half time score 14 - 12 to The Elks.

Carl Oakland was brought on soon into the second half and immediately made his presence tell both at the set pieces and the loose. The Elks began to take control of the game and Tama Keane was taking play deep into the Derby half with some astute tactical kicking. Derby had the chance to take the lead, when they were awarded a penalty, only to see the attempt drift narrowly wide.

Derby were beginning to press hard and only stout defensive work from The Elks pack, which was excellent all game, presented any progress to The Elks line. The game was secured with a moment of brilliance from CJ, who took a wide pass and cut through the midfield to score under the posts. For the second week running, Boothy inexplicably missed the conversion from under the posts.

The closing minutes saw play mainly in the midfield and the final play of the game saw Captain Jon D kick the ball into touch for the ref to blow for full time.

So, the undefeated run continues and a repeat of the score a couple of weeks ago, saw The Elks victorious against a tough Derby side. The game was played in good spirit and refereed well.

MOM went to Liam Stanley who yet again put in a powerhouse performance at blindside flanker.
Next week sees the visit of Dronfield 2's to The Stute.