The Exiles claimed their second league win of the year at Stade Santander International, both results ending lengthy unbeaten runs for the Reds on their home patch.
Director of rugby Harvey Biljon was bitterly disappointed by the result and seething at the officiating.
‘It was a very tough day at the office for both teams in those conditions, but we didn’t feel that we got the right reward from the breakdown and several crucial decisions didn’t go our way,’ he said.
The Reds’ boss questioned both of the decisions that gave the Scots their chances to score two first-half penalties, and lamented his side’s failure to take their chances.
The pitch at Stade Santander International became heavy as a result of heavy rain that arrived shortly before kick-off, and the visitors held on determinedly to claim four points, delighting forwards coach Steve Scott.
‘We managed the first half well and were disappointed to be down at the break, but the spirit of the team to hold out at the end and get the win was fantastic,’ he said. ‘It was a tight game and we knew scoring opportunities would be limited, so it was great that Mark Bright made a superb decision in getting through for his try.’
Following yesterday’s games, a 6-0 victory for Cornish Pirates at home to Hartpury, and an away win for Doncaster Knights, 40-1 against Yorkshire Carnegie, Jersey drop from fourth to fifth, though now level on points with Ealing, but doubtless frustrated that it is Cornish Pirates who take second place and Coventry third spot, the latter after their midlands derby victory over Nottingham (aided by Islander James Voss).
Championship results: Coventry 25, Nottingham Rugby 11; Ealing Trailfinders 14, Newcastle Falcons 26; Jersey Reds 10, L Scottish 13; Cornish Pirates 6, Hartpury 0; Yorkshire 19, Doncaster 40.
Jersey Reds now face a spell of inactivity, in terms of matches, with their next Championship encounter away to Hartpury on 11 January 2020. Jersey Athletic also have an extended break with their next Raging Bull Shield match also on 11 January, away to the powerful Richmond Vikings. A scheduled fixture on 4 January has been scratched by Chinnor.
