Casuals took 2 teams to Bakewell, with the 1st team game as the opener for a hoped for afternoon of sparkling rugby, with the 2nds match to be played afterwards on the same pitch.

Unfortunately the home side took the spoils in both games, and the hoped for champagne rugby turned out to be lacking any fizz. Certainly not much joy for the visiting spectators.

The 1sts game was a free for all around the breakdowns, with both sides straying offside at rucks and mauls, and with neither side being punished, it was a mess. It probably would have helped if this area had been controlled with the whistle and a bit of talking, but it was not. A bit empathy was needed, a plethora of yellow cards for other offences just illustrated that.

Bakewell scored shortly after the kick off, catching Casuals cold after the coach trip, and they dominated for long periods, using the wind at their backs to their advantage.
The second score came after 14 minutes.
After that Casuals defended resolutely, despite having to deal with countless scrums and penalties, their tackling remaining firm.

2 yellow cards shortly after half time did Casuals cause no good, but they managed to further repel Bakewell, and they only managed a penalty in the next 30 minutes.

Unfortunately Bakewell managed to cross the line for another try, and it was looking pretty horrible for Casuals.

However, Casuals turned up the heat late on, pushing Bakwell back, and 2 very late tries for Casuals gave the score line a bit of respectability.

Firstly Sean Roberts crossed, with Higgins converting, and the Higgins went in the corner himself to finish the game.

West Bridgford went above Casuals in the league table, but hopefully Casuals can remain in 6th if Coalville win against Ashbourne in the one outstanding fixture in the league. The odds are heavily stacked against Ashbourne with their recent form.

Casuals next fixture is scheduled to be against Mellish in the semi-final of the Nottinghamshire cup, next Saturday at Canalside.