LEADERS Biggleswade proved too big an obstacle to overcome for St Ives, who slipped to their second straight league reverse.

Midlands Four East South

St Ives 0-57 Biggleswade

LEADERS Biggleswade proved too big an obstacle to overcome for St Ives who slipped to their second straight league reverse.

Despite putting in a committed and determined performance, they ultimately struggled to assert themselves on a well-drilled visiting side.

And, whenever they did get a sniff of an opening, Ives’ play was littered with incomplete passes or knock-ons, while isolated players were ruthlessly punished by Biggleswade, who were quick to steal back possession.

Another tough game awaits St Ives this weekend, when they make the trip to another of the division’s title challengers – Oundle – who currently sit third.

• St Ives seconds had a better afternoon of it, though, running out convincing 41-0 victors at Shelford.

Fly-half Steve Burke scored the first try and, shortly afterwards Danny Bluff, playing at scrum-half, went over for his first try in two years – although both tries were unconverted – as the visitors led 10-0 at the break.

Second half tries came from youngsters Tom Watts, Alex Henley and Rodger Shakespeare; captain Oliver Scott, veteran and vice-captain Mark Smy – with Henley nailing three conversions.