THERE was no disgrace in North East Worcestershire Ravens’ 52-14 defeat at last season’s Midlands Premier Division runners-up Telford Raiders.
Ravens headed to Telford’s new ground to face their hosts on a 4G astro – a first for the Ravens squad – and their new, young and athletic team were looking forward to the game after seeing the previous week’s fixture against Boston cancelled by their opposition.
Ravens, who gave a debut to Conor Hinton, went in hard and fast and caught the Raiders off guard. Ravens had high possession and set up camp in the Raiders’ half, but saw four would-be tries held up over the line.
Raiders hit back with two quickfire tries but Ravens were undaunted, forcing the hosts to concede a flurry of penalties which culminated in the yellow-carding of a home player.
Ravens took full advantage of Raiders being a man down with a try from centre Chris Cooke, only for Raiders to respond with two more tries, followed by another before the break which came after a clash of heads saw Ravens lose key man Jonnie Mills to injury.
In the second half Raiders put the result beyond doubt with a further two tries but Ravens were determined not to lie down and created an overlap for winger Rob White to score a try converted by David Wimbury.
Although Raiders continued to score tries, there was a third for the visitors through Brad Sinclair.
Raiders’ Director of Rugby said: “You have a great group of lads here with some great skills and, if you can keep them training together, you have the potential to build a highly competitive team.”
Ravens’ Director of Rugby Jason Spafford said: “This game has been the best of the season for us, with a massive development in the skills of all the players and a brilliant, positive attitude.”
Ravens visit table-topping Coventry Dragons this weekend.
