Roosters are on rampage

Rugby League Conference

Eastern Division

St Ives Roosters 46

Colchester Romans 0

THE Roosters put in an impressive display to record their first win of the season over new outfit Colchester.

St Ives started the game without their first-choice front-row, including captain Andrew Dean, but a try from John Paxton inside five minutes settled their nerves.

Paxton crossed for the score following a quick tap-penalty 20 metres from the Colchester line.

With a heavy pack of forwards at their disposal, the Romans fought back from the kick-off, but some brave defending from the home side saw them weather the storm before gaining possession.

Some poor discipline by the Romans defence and some great attacking play by the Roosters allowed the St Ives side to cross the line a further three times before half time, making it 22-0.

Michael Drake, Michael Sykes and debutant Duncan Potts were the scorers.

The Roosters carried their momentum into the second half, being awarded a penalty soon after the kick-off.

Dan McCormack drew the defence with an attempt to dart over the line before some quick thinking and passing allowed Sykes to cross over out wide for his second try of the afternoon.

McCormack continued to cause the Romans defence problems with his sniping runs, putting St Ives on the front foot as they went on to score three further tries before the whistle.

Steve Burke, Oli Jones, and Paxton were the scorers, following some good inter-play between backs and forwards.

James Yeomans had an excellent game in defence while the man of the match award went to Duncan Potts.

Coach Ian Hill said after the game: "The squad were impressive in defence today, which is a direct result of the effort the players have put in to improve their organisation."

"And, of course it is satisfying to get our first win of the season."

The win leaves the Roosters third in the table, just two points behind leaders Bedford.