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Kesteven Rugby Club beat Market Rasen in a double-header




Kesteven Rugby Club came out on top after a thrilling 27-26 victory over Market Rasen in their Counties 1 Midlands East (North) clash on Saturday.

The fixture was not only a critical league match but also served as a cup game, adding extra weight to an already highly anticipated encounter.

Both teams put in spirited performances but it was Kesteven's determination and discipline that sealed the win by the slimmest of margins.

Cam Muir crosses the line. Photo: Nick Wainwright
Cam Muir crosses the line. Photo: Nick Wainwright

The game kicked off with Kesteven on the front foot, as Henry Parker slotted an early penalty to give the home side a 3-0 lead.

Market Rasen soon responded with a converted try, taking the lead at 3-7.

However, Kesteven's forwards worked tirelessly to gain territory and James Goodrich found the gap after a brilliant assist from Dan Turner. Parker converted to put the home side back in front at 10-7.

The match remained tightly contested as both teams battled for control.

Market Rasen emerged from the half-time huddle with renewed energy and their relentless pressure led to a second converted try.

It wasn't long before Turner crossed the try line following a clever break from scrum-half Harry Clough. Parker added the conversion, swinging the momentum back to Kesteven at 17-14.

James Goodrich. Photo: Nick Wainwright
James Goodrich. Photo: Nick Wainwright

Market Rasen’s discipline faltered and a yellow card was issued after a series of high tackles, reducing them to 14 men.

Parker capitalised on Market Rasen’s indiscipline with another penalty to extend the lead to 20-14.

Kesteven then tightened their grip on the game when Cam Muir crashed over the try line from a ruck after sustained pressure on the visitors' try line. Parker once again added the conversion, giving Kesteven a 27-14 advantage.

However, Market Rasen refused to roll over. They responded with a try but missed the crucial conversion, narrowing the gap to 27-19.

With only minutes remaining, Market Rasen scored yet another try, and this time, the conversion was good, setting up a nail-biting finish at 27-26.

Despite late pressure from the visitors, Kesteven’s defence held firm, and they secured a hard-fought victory.

Captain James Cowley with Dan Turner and Rob Sheardown in support. Photo: Nick Wainwright
Captain James Cowley with Dan Turner and Rob Sheardown in support. Photo: Nick Wainwright

The man of the match award deservedly went to Harry Clough, whose quick thinking and exceptional distribution were instrumental in Kesteven’s attacking play.

The double victory in both league and cup matches marks an important milestone for Kesteven, as they continue to climb the table and progress in the cup.

Kesteven now sit third in the league but the next three games will prove to be a real test as they play the other teams in the top four with a trip to Belgrave next on Saturday.



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