LINCOLN 3RD XV 7
BUXTON 1ST XV 40
NLD MEN’S JUNIOR XV PLATE SEMI-FINAL
PHOTO CREDIT: BRIAN PENNEY

Lincoln’s 3rd XV showed some real moments of quality, but just couldn’t sustain it for long enough to prevent a 40-7 home defeat against Buxton’s 1st XV in the semi-final of the NLD Men’s Junior Plate.

Despite, the result there were plenty of positives for Lincoln, including more Colts getting senior game time. Jim Davies made his senior debut and Al Seaward played his first senior game at prop.

Lincoln battled hard from the first whistle, but it was Buxton who scored the first two tries of the match to take a 14-0 lead.

The hosts reduced the deficit when a quick tap led to a good passing move through the back line, with Ollie Jorden setting up Max Cartwright to run in for a try from the 22.

Jorden successfully slotted over the conversion to reduce the deficit in the score, and Buxton’s lead, to 14-7 going in at the break.

Buxton were well-drilled and the better disciplined of the two sides on the day, and their experience of training regularly together, and having played in a higher division, showed in the second half.

The visitors scored four second-half tries to secure their victory and a place in the Final against Stamford’s 2nd XV, who beat Ollerton Hoods 63-0 in the other Semi-Final.

Lincoln will be looking to bounce back to winning ways when they return to league action with a home match against Ollerton on Saturday, March 28.

After the match, Lincoln’s 3rd XV Team Manager Tom Wilson said: “It was a tough afternoon for the 3s as we fell 40-7 at home to Buxton 1s .

“Credit to Buxton who were a very well-disciplined side and played consistently well throughout the match. They controlled key moments and made it difficult for us to build any sustained momentum.

“There were still some moments of real quality from the lads, and when we clicked we showed what we’re capable of. Unfortunately, we just couldn’t string those passages together for long enough to properly challenge.

“Plenty to take away and work on this week as we look to bounce back stronger in the next fixture. Thanks to everyone who came down to support.”