Doncaster Knights were defeated at the Nick Newbold Stadium after a high-scoring encounter with Coventry, which ended 44–24.

21st March 2026

The hosts opened the scoring early with a penalty that gave them entry into the 22. After multiple phases of strong carries, the forwards eventually drove over the line, and the successful conversion handed Coventry a 7–0 lead.

The Knights responded by winning a scrum penalty to return to attack. Sustained pressure eventually paid off when a quick pass to Rhys Tait allowed him to power over for Doncaster’s first try, narrowing the score to 7–5.

Allan Ferrie then struck twice in quick succession. The first came after a powerful break through the middle by Nayalo, who created space for Ferrie to run in unopposed. Ferrie soon added a second with a strong drive over the line, extending Coventry’s lead to 19–5.

The Knights enjoyed a period of possession and showed promising attacking intent, but were unable to convert pressure into points, with Coventry’s resolute defence and a number of individual errors proving costly.Coventry added another try before the break after a scrum penalty gave them field position in the 22, finishing with another powerful carry.

Half-time: 24–5.

Doncaster started the second half brightly, with Bunting producing an excellent penalty kick to touch to set up an attacking lineout five metres out. The forwards executed well, and Ben Chapman drove over for the try, with Bennett adding the extras to make it 24–12.

After winning the aerial contest, Coventry regained possession and moved the ball effectively before Johnson crossed the line, extending the lead to 29–12.

The Knights remained in the contest, working their way back upfield through strong forward carries. Jasper McGuire finished the move, powering over in the corner to bring the score to 34–17.

Coventry responded with two more tries. The first came from Morgan Adderly-Jones, who picked from the base of the ruck and dove over. The second followed a quick counter-attack, as Coventry capitalised on a loose ball and broke into space. Bunting looked set to make the cover tackle but was unfortunate to slip, allowing the hosts to run the length and stretch the lead to 41–17.

Doncaster had the final say, earning a losing bonus point with a late try. Russell Bennett reacted quickest to an overthrown lineout, gathering the loose ball and offloading to Connor Edwards, who powered through contact to score. Bennett added the conversion.

Full-time: 44–24.

The Knights return to home action next week as they face Hartpury RFC on Friday night. Secure your tickets now and get behind the Knights as they look to finish the season on a high.