Ryan Tinsley grabbed a brace of tries, and slotted over two conversions, as Lincoln’s 3rd XV battled hard in a 34-24 home defeat against Lincolnshire rivals Gainsborough.

Flynn Smith and Aron Smith also scored tries for Lincoln who fought bravely until the end, but just ran out of steam.

Before the match both sides observed a minute’s silence to mark Remembrance Day.

Gainsborough started strongly with two tries to take a 12-0 lead, before Lincoln hit back with a great turnover in midfield.

 Captain Daz Rorie picked up the ball from the bottom of a ruck and broke the line into the 22. Rorie then offloaded the ball too Tinsley, who stepped the Gainsborough full-back to run in for a try. Tinsley’s conversion attempt hit a post and bounced over.

Lincoln levelled the score when Tinsley took a quick tap penalty in the opposition 22 and powered through some Gainsborough players for his second try of the match.

Gainsborough scored a late try in the first half as Lincoln trailed 19-12 at the break.

Lincoln reduced the deficit when Kodi Strand got the ball in the 22 and offloaded to Tinsley, who put a kick over the top for Flynn Smith to chase down and score.

Gainsborough crossed for three crucial tries to take a 12-point lead, but Lincoln refused give up and cut the gap to five when Aron Smith powered through to score from close range.

Tinsley added the extras but, unfortunately for Lincoln, it was Gainsborough who scored the final try of the match to take the victory.

POST MATCH COMMENTS

After the match Lincoln’s 3rd XV Team Manager Tom Wilson said: “It was a competitive and hard-fought game, with the lads putting in a strong shift throughout.

 “Credit to everyone who stepped up, particularly those playing out of their usual positions and adapting to what was needed for the team.

 “There were plenty of positives to take away, and the effort and commitment from the squad was clear to see.

“We’ll take the lessons from Saturday and look to bounce back stronger next time out.”

Lincoln’s 3rd XV captain Daz Rorie said: “Gainsborough had a really big squad and also they’ve got a really big pack.

“We did struggle with scrimmaging, but overall I am super proud of everyone, as I always am, and we always enjoy playing against Gainsborough.”