Derby University, Saturday 3^rd November, Home, Won 29-0

Having planned a week-end away from the pressure of League rugby Royces found themselves back at Victory Road replaying the University of Derby. Having notched up a 42 v 5 victory two weeks ago in a game that went to uncontested scrums the rules were applied and the game deemed null and void.

Royces took to the field once again in a team contacting the now weekly changes against a Uni’ team that looked equally different from the last game. Royces needed to maintain their concentration and application and seek to improve on previous displays.

Dan Sanderson opened the scoring with a fine solo run from the half way line following great anticipation and reading on a loose pass. Ian Baker appeared from the bottom of a driving maul to claim a second try, Andy Taylor added a brace of tries rounded off by 2 conversions from skipper Paul McLaughlin. Workman like and promising Royces had the opportunity if they showed commitment, understanding and desire to run away with this game.

The second half was all Royces but the Uni’ refused to be there just to make up the numbers and resolute defence combined with poor final pass decisions or trying to force a pass kept Royces off the score sheet. Royces went down to 14 players for 10 minutes when Andy Taylor decided to take his increasingly regular 10 minutes rest for a yellow card for softly wandering offside in the back of a maul. Back to full strength and with two replacements on the field adding fresh legs and desire Royces managed to get a second half score, a move at half way on the counter attack saw some good ball carrying and support ending with Malcolm Lee falling over the line for an easy try for someone who had chased half the length of the pitch always offering support.

Final Score :- Royces 29 v University of Derby 0

Team :- Jon, Duncan, Greg, Sean, John, Paul, Jon, Iwan, Mike, Ian, Andy, Nick, Ian, Alex, Dan.  Malcolm, Ady, Rob