AFTER two wins in succession, Jersey Reds Athletic yielded to a strong Rosslyn Park Rangers 59-21.
On home soil, Rangers made use of the quick artificial surface and dominated the game through the backs – many of whom have National I Division experience.
Myles Landick’s makeshift pack, held up well, even forcing a Rangers yellow card at one point, for continual infringements within the scrum.
However, it was the hosts who stamped their authority on the game in the battle of the backs.
Tries for captain Tim Corson and number eight Alex Budd left the visitors 33-14 behind at the break.
Corson also added a second try after the break, however it was Rangers who kicked on for a comfortable victory.
Landick, who has recently celebrated seven years in charge of the side, said: ‘Obviously it wasn’t an ideal situation missing so many lads from the win last time out.
‘They looked very dangerous every time they had ball in hand, we ultimately have no complaints.
‘Our resilience was brilliant though, we always tried to make things happen and never gave up, which makes me very proud of the group.’
Fly-half George Daniels has excelled in his role since being included in the starting XV.
The 17-year-old has retained his place in Landick’s side, who also gave second-half minutes to another 17-year-old in the shape of Dylan Stocks.
The Athletic coach remains keen to integrate stand-out colts players up into the side, with Stocks the latest academy product given a chance.
Landick said: ‘Although we lost the game, we managed to give everyone some really good game time.
‘George is progressing very well at 10 and Dylan got 25 minutes off the bench.
‘It is key to keep progressing this squad and the fact the entire matchday team got solid time on the pitch is excellent.’
‘I don’t think it was that poor a performance from our side. They are very well accustomed to playing on the quicker surface on a weekly basis, coupled with a very experienced set of backs – it was always going to be difficult to keep them quiet.
‘We have to regroup and focus on this weekend as the fixtures keep on coming.’
The Athletic travel to Barnes this Saturday [ko 12:30pm] before enjoying a run of home fixtures leading up the first leg of the Siam Cup in May.
Jersey Reds Athletic (1-15): George Thomas, Jake Bates, Tom Wilson, Euan Spencer, Charlie Hunt, Jay Hosty, Tim Corson, Alex Budd, Max Harrington, George Daniels, Nathan Rogers, Dom Mayo, Joe Ratcliff, Mike Kenealy Charlie Hubert.
Replacements (all used): Andrew Pitcher, Joe Ridgeway, Alfie Kell, Bryn Edwards, Tom Pinel, Dylan Stocks
