Stowmarket put disappointment of cup defeat behind them to beat Southwold

A second game between these two sides in the last two weeks gave an opportunity for the home side to put the disappointment of the cup game behind them and the chance to secure a league victory against a team above them in the league.

This proved to be a completely different game to the cup affair with exciting running rugby being played by both sides.

Early physical exchanges between the two sides saw a succession of injuries and replacements for the home side with two substitutes used in the first 20 minutes.

An excellent break by the forceful Clarke from within his own half saw a succession of passes and support running before captain Joe Fifield was able to dot down under the post, leaving Garrard a straight forward conversion.

Southwold reacted well to this setback and got themselves back on the scoreboard with a well-taken penalty.

The remainder of the half saw both sides launching attacks but defences were generally on top, and opportunities to kick straight forward penalty spurned.

The vocal home crowd hoped that Stowmarket would not regret this.

The second half was a similar sort of contest with Stowmarket having the majority of possession and territory, with once again Fifield running excellent support lines to squeeze over in the corner.

Stowmarket continued to apply pressure but the Southwold defence was in no mood to allow easy scores and so when a penalty was awarded 40 yards out Stowmarket thro full-back Turner took the opportunity the stretch the lead.

Southwold, while disappointed were determined to leave with something for their endeavours and eventually forced a try in the corner to give them a bonus point for finishing within 7.

Overall a much improved performance from the home side, who now have two difficult away games to complete their season.