Match report - 15th Nov 2014

Sutton travelled into North Lincolnshire last weekend still searching for their winning sparkle away from home and their search suffered another setback when they lost 31-20 in a keen contest at Scunthorpe.

For a change Sutton made a promising start when fullback Ben Morgan fired them into an early lead with a well struck penalty just 3 minutes into the game following Sutton pressure in the Scunthorpe 22 but the early promise faded quickly as Scunthorpe stormed back with 3 tries in 13 minutes to lead 21-3 after 16 minutes of play. Fly half Tom Foster and flanker Jake Barron scored the opening tries, then a penalty try conceded on the Sutton try line all counted against Sutton and fullback Steve Johnson added all three conversions, leaving Sutton with another mountain to climb.

Sutton mounted a spirited recovery but in spite of their best efforts Scunthorpe stretched their lead to 26-3 when outside centre Ashley Dibden crossed for a fourth try following a break by fullback Steve Johnson 5 minutes before the break... but on the stroke of half time Sutton won a penalty try themselves, which Ben Morgan converted to close to 26-10 at the break and then winger Nathan Burchell snatched an interception try within three minutes of the restart for the perfect start to the second half. The ace finisher raced into the right corner from the half way line and although the conversion drifted wide Sutton were back in the game at 26-15 but try as they might Sutton were unable to take their chances during an entertaining but very frustrating second half for the Sutton team and their loyal travelling support and the next score fell to Scunthorpe who snapped up a fifth try when no8 Dave Garbett was driven over with 8 minutes left to play.

Although Burchell bagged his second try, after good work by left wing Ben Toft, to close to 31-20 with 4 minutes remaining, Sutton were unable to salvage anything from a testing game, with the second half played under floodlights to pierce the gloom on a dull, murky and misty afternoon.

This weekend Sutton return to base and welcome old rivals and near neighbours Lichfield, who achieved promotion to National League 3 last season and this first encounter in many seasons provides the chance for both sides to test their respective strengths as we approach the mid point of the league season. The game to be played at the RSG, Walmley Road. KO 2.15 pm.