Seconds push the champions close

Guernsey 2nds 13, Jersey 2nds 22

AFTER a flying start Guernsey seconds lost a closely fought game to JRA League champions Jersey Seconds at Foote's Lane. Despite late changes to the starting line-up due to illness, Guernsey opened strongly with their front row of O'Reilly, Barber and Batiste dominating up front, and No. 8 Harrie Marais carrying the ball at every opportunity as they attacked.

On 10 minutes, Marais linked from the base of a scrum with half back Divon Crouse who rounded the covering defender to score in the corner. Stand-in captain Alec Bailey converted the try and before long he had increased the home team's lead with a penalty after the Jersey forwards had killed the ball on the ground.

But 10-0 down Jersey responded strongly and their strong back line began to punch holes in the Sarnians midfield.

Following a crosskick by the Jersey fly half, the Jersey winger outjumped the covering defence to score an unconverted try.

Then, just short of half time, the Jersey captain Gareth Davies, scored following a powerful run from O'Brien in the centre. The try was converted and Jersey found themselves leading 12-10 at the break.

On the resumption, Guernsey again started the stronger side and only last ditch tackles from O'Brien stopped Guernsey winger Sam Shields scoring in the corner. Then the same player stopped Barber just inches from the line.

Jersey extended their lead midway through the second half with an unconverted try following a period of pressure as the Guernsey forwards tired, but a further penalty from Bailey meant the Sarnians went into the last five minutes trailing 15-13 and attacking at every opportunity.

However a handling error just outside the Guernsey 22 gave Jersey a good field position and from the resulting scrum, replacement winger Will Church put the game out of Guernsey's reach scoring under the posts. ,

The try was converted to put the result beyond doubt.

Bailey was disappointed. 'It was a game we could and should have won had we taken our chances.

'Good sides punish your mistakes and Jersey are a very good side. They are unbeaten this season, but we have pushed them close both times we have played them.'

Guernsey seconds are in JRA league action again this weekend, with a local derby against St Jacques at Foote's Lane on Sunday afternoon.

Guernsey have injury concerns over a couple of players, but welcome back Mark Stone to the squad following his long-term injury and youngster Robin Le Cocq to the squad.

?Stoney's return is a huge boost the team, he is a proven finisher, possibly one of the best in the Channel Islands and failing to take our chances this season has been a problem,' said regular skipper Jon Arch.

'With Stoney, Sam Shields and Alex Miller, we have real pace in the back three and it is just about getting them enough ball to cause some damage.' He added: 'It's great for rugby on the island that St Jacques are a strong side this season and we expect a real battle.'

Kick off is at the GRUFC pitch at 1.30pm.

This follows the GRUFC under-16s Hampshire Cup Game, which is due to kick off at 11.30.