Spitfires shot down in North Wales

After several matches cancelled due to poor weather over recent weeks Spitfires made the long trip west over to North Wales and our hosts for this morning Ruthin RFC. The sun shone, the scenery was idyllic and the rain held off making for a great day for rugby.
Somewhat depleted through injury and other commitments, Spitfires fielded 15 players with no subs to play under Welsh rules which allowed for uncontested line outs and conversions on a full size pitch, all new rules for the team, but a great experience.
The first 15 minutes opened with one way traffic from the hosts, Ruthin running in three tries, two of which were converted. The game then settled down to a good contest with Spitfires contesting the ball well and closing down Ruthin options and a single try from Ruthin. By this time, the lads had settled and were playing some good rugby, quick hands in the backs and some outstanding rucking, stealing ball from turnover on several occasions. The only try of the third quarter came from Spitfires with the conversion going wide of the posts.
By the fourth quarter the lads had the bit between their teeth and for a period camped out deep in the Ruthin 22, but were unable however to take the fruits of their labour and put points on the board. Special mention must be made however of the rucking with the team pushing Ruthin off the ball and winning possession and turnover.
Sadly, time was against the team with a try each from either team in the fourth quarter and unable to turn around the early lead. Ruthin were a well drilled side and the lads rose to the challenge very well, in many phases controlling the game and playing on their terms. A great effort from the lads of which they should be very proud with that Spitfire Resilience to dig deep once again coming to the fore. With a full side and substitute options it may have been a different result and next years return fixture will be interesting to see.
Well played lads, a great team effort.