Ivel came out on top in this top of the table clash to maintain their position at the top of the league. Things did not start well for the home side after knocking on the ball from the kickoff, they then gave a penalty away in front of their posts, and with the kick successfully converted Ivel found themselves three points down with only one minute played. Ivel got themselves back in the game with ten minutes gone when a good break from Ivel centre Paul Mortensen was supported by Ash Pippard who was able to score under the posts, with Pippard converting the kick. Ivel now in front were starting to control the game, using their stronger scrum Ivel were able to set a platform for their backs who were pushing N.Dorset back with each attack but the N.Dorset defence stayed strong and kept Ivel out. Then with N.Dorset on the attack, an interception by Ivel’s second row Matt Corrigan allowed him to run 40m to score a converted try under the posts. Then right before halftime Ivel scored a third try, with Winger Pete Rose getting on the end of a chipped through ball to cross the line, conversion by Pippard.

HT 24 – 3

Ivel started the second half on top playing all the rugby, and it was not long before they scored again. A good break by Lee Murgatroyd through the middle was well supported and the ball came back to Murgatroyd to score an unconverted try. With ten minutes of the half gone Murgatroyd was able to find a gap in N.Dorset’s defence and score his second try of the game, converted by Pippard. N.Dorset were now trying to play their way back into the game, but the Ivel forwards were breaking up all the N.Dorset attacks and turning over the ball with man of the match Kris Shore leading the way. With the game nearing the end Ivel won a lineout on N.Dorset’s 5m line.  After another well worked lineout Pete Medhurst was able to cross the line and Pippard added the final points of the day. After the game Ivel manager Ed Mason said “we had a good result today, we played with confidence and were able to link up play well. This is the second game in a row we have not conceived a try now so very pleased with our defence.”

FT  Ivel  43    N Dorset  3