Doncaster Knights put in an impressive attacking display to score half a century of points against Bedford Blues at Castle Park.
Hooker Ben Chapman kicked off the try-scoring with two in a row, as the Knights’ dominant maul sent him over twice. Bennett converted one of the two to give Donny a 12–0 lead.
After a strong defensive set from the Knights, and a Ryan Olowofela intercept initially holding out the Blues, the visitors were given another opportunity from a tap penalty. They executed it well, sending Tui Uru over to leave the half-time score at 12–5.
Olowofela opened the scoring in the second half just minutes in. Margetts carried hard and popped the ball up to Dolly, who threw a long pass to Veainu. Veainu drew in the final defender before popping it to Olowofela, and the winger powered over in the corner. 17–5.
Rhys Tait then showed unbelievable work rate, timing his tackle on the receiver of a high ball to perfection before jumping back up and winning the ball at the breakdown. Bennett kicked the penalty to the corner, and a few phases after the lineout, Tait powered onto a pop pass to dive over. Bennett added the extras, 24–5.
The backs soon got their hands on the ball again and worked it wide to Kerr, who produced a brilliant kick down the wing. The kick was chased by Kerr and Edwards but gathered by Bedford. That proved no issue for Donny, as Edwards was straight into the breakdown to win the ball. Bennett kicked for the five-metre lineout, and after Chapman broke away from the maul, the ball was shipped across to Edwards, who ran onto it at pace and stretched over. Conversion added, 31–5.
A real blockbuster try followed. Just as Bedford looked to be building momentum and were camped on the line, a wide pass was snatched by Veainu. He took off for the line, showing brilliant pace to go the full length and score. Bennett added the extras from out wide. 38–5.
Rhys Tait then claimed his second as Donny began to throw the ball around with confidence. The backline offloaded at will to bring the Knights into the 22, and Kerr’s long pass found Tait, who bumped off the final defender to finish in the corner. Another conversion from Bennett made it 45–5.
Bedford grabbed a late consolation try before the full-time whistle, as Ben Griffin drove his way over. But the Knights reminded Castle Park who was in charge with one final score. Quick ball in attack allowed Edwards to power through Bedford’s defence and create space. He sent a long pass out to Kerr, who used his pace to finish in the corner.
Full-time score: 50–12.
Next week, Doncaster face Chinnor R.F.C. on Friday night, before returning to Castle Park in a fortnight to take on league leaders Ealing Trailfinders. We need all the support we can get so clear your diaries and grab your tickets now!
