Lutterworth 29 Huntingdon Stags 23 Stags were understandably disappointed to lose to a converted try with just two minutes left in a game that was a credit to both teams and, indeed, to the league itself. The hosts were well organised and strong in many

Lutterworth 29 Huntingdon Stags 23

Stags were understandably disappointed to lose to a converted try with just two minutes left in a game that was a credit to both teams and, indeed, to the league itself.

The hosts were well organised and strong in many key areas and Huntingdon will be unlucky to meet a better rucking side again this season.

The Stags got off to the perfect start as Damien Whales cleverly switched play to confuse the Lutterworth defence. His long pass was gladly accepted by the eager Elliot Baldwin, who galloped over almost unchallenged to score. Whales then did his bit by adding the conversion.

The score stung the hosts into action and they were soon on the scoreboard as the Stags defence dallied and their opponents nipped in to score making it 7-5.

It was then up to Whales again as his penalty sailed over following an infringement by a home player.

The Stags were then put under increasing pressure and Lutterworth went over for another unconverted try to bring the score back to 10-10.

On a rare foray forward the visitors gained a penalty 45 yards out and the booming boot of Whales did the job again to restore a slender advantage to the Stags.

There was still time in the first half for the hosts to get their third try and take a 15-13 lead in to the dressing room.

In to the second half and more pressure on the Stags forced an error that enable Lutterworth to score yet another try which they duly converted.

The game looked to be drifting well away from Huntingdon but, to their credit, they took the game to their opponents and thanks to the penalty exploits of Whales the score became 23-22 to Stags with five minutes left.

Despite heroic defence Lutterworth broke through to grab the win near the final whistle leaving Stags no time to reply.

The next match is against Northampton BBOB at Hinchingbrooke on Saturday.