St Ives make a tremendous start to the season but hit a bump against a determined Dunstablians, writes Phil Brown.

Early on, Dees took advantage of hesitation in the Bulls’ defence. A speculative kick bounced into the arms of the winger following up, who scored close to the posts.

Ives then put together some magnificent phases of play with Olivers Raine, Bartlett and Giglio prominent. Unfortunately, dropped balls and individual decisions made the defenders’ work easier.

A loss of their own line-out put Ives on the back foot. A chip and chase again saw Dunstablians through for a try totally against the run of play.

The hosts’ chances were generated from distance. One break could have seen them stretch their lead, but superb scrambling from Elliott Mortimer saw the player felled.

As the half hour lapsed, the Bulls finally scored as the ball went through the hands to Max Flint who scored out wide.

The second half continued with Ives applying mounting pressure on the Dees line. Following a yellow for the hosts, another penalty and a quick tap saw Mickey Drake jink his way past defenders to score, converted by Charlie Mandley.

Dees’ defensive effort continued to frustrate Ives’ attacks. Worse followed when possession was turned over in the Dees 22. The home outside backs combined to score a length of the field try, which was followed up with a penalty.

Ives continued to attack. As time elapsed, Ives gained consolation with a try by Marc Tirant, again converted by Mandley. But the early profligacy had cost dear and it was too little, too late.

Head coach Josh Dear said after the game: “What a frustrating afternoon for us as a team. We’ve set our stall out to play a certain way and with that you have to be clinical. Today we got ourselves in great positions to score plenty and fluffed our lines at the end. 

“That gives us work-ons for training and we have to put that work in to be ready for the next game. To be that dominate in a game, play some excellent rugby at times, front up in defence and not take any points is disappointing.”

Final Score: Dunstablians 27 - St Ives 19.