Guernsey Press

Raiders in driving seat after comeback win

IT REALLY is time to believe Raiders can make that great leap into National Two rugby.

Published
Raiders celebrate one of their six tries, this one coming from Tom Ceillam, on a thrilling afternoon. (Picture by Martin Gray)

Jordan Reynolds’ men overcame a terrible start at rivals Hertford on Saturday to run in six tries and, with a 44-33 win, open a 10-point gap on their beaten rivals, who still have a game in hand.

They also stay five points clear of Tring and six of Barnes, who are on 63 and 62 points respectively.

Such a scenario looked unlikely as Hertford ran in three early tries and were 21-10 to the good with less than half an hour played.

But once Raiders got into their stride and tightened their defence, they dominated the home side and with Luke Jones (two), Tom Ceillam, Owen Thomas, Lewis Hillier and Ned Brown all scoring tries, four of which were converted by the fly-half Thomas, who also kicked two penalties, the visitors were unworried when Hertford scored a late try to narrow the gap to 11.

Reynolds was full of praise for his men after such a disappointing opening.

‘We hadn’t beaten Hertford away for three seasons now, so to get to the win and open up 10 points on them is great,' he said.

‘Our position shows just how much hard work the lads have put into it.’

  • More in Monday's Guernsey Press.