Deeping had a strong starting 15, with the added luxury of 5 'Bomb Squad' players, with thanks to the guys at Thorney who helped out again.

Deeping started strong, with an early try from the skipper Ciaron, after a concentrated spell of pressure in the Bourne 22 put us ahead. A conversion was missed. Bourne with a big pack hit back with a unconverted try of their own. Both sides demonstrated great defence, with robust tackling from Roberts, Bailey & Pricey keeping Bourne penned in their own half. Deeping then went ahead with a try from Tom Parker (Thorney) & Ciaron converted.

Bourne hit straight back with a pile driving run from their big 2nd row under the post and it was converted. Marauding runs from Bailey & Jack making holes at will into Bourne’s territory led to Luke G sprinting around the defence to score under the posts, which was converted by Ciaron. This put the Half Time score at 12-19 with Deepings ahead.

The back and forward nature of the game was in part due to the small pitch and some contentious calls. Bourne scored first into the 2nd half and converted to level at 19-19. Roberts split the defence to put Deeping ahead, again converted, before another Bourne try not converted. Jack Teflon Ray (after busting his proverbial’s every week!) finally got over the whitewash for his first senior score in the corner (no conversion).

More good work from Charlie Starr & Joe Williams, Luke G split the defence for his 2nd try, converted by Ciaron again. A spell of Bourne pressure was repelled at the try line by great Deeping defence, before the referee saw fit to give Roberts a yellow card for an infringement. Bourne managed a late score in the corner with the extra man, but Deeping held fast until the whistle. Despite great defence from both sides, the final ball or lucky break was decisive on the day. Great interplay from forwards and backs, spells of really good attacking rugby and a resolute defence and such good tackling all over the field made for a good watch. Another entertaining game, but with a big W for Deeping!