In an exciting and close contest Sutton were edged out of a morale boosting victory by a last gasp try, which gave visitors Old Halesonians a narrow 17-18 victory over a much improved Sutton side, whose overall performance deserved a better result but the marked improvement against strong opposition bodes well and should see Sutton recover from their recent dip in form to finish the season strongly.

History shows that over many years, games against Old Hales both home and away have gone down to the wire with Sutton just edging the games won in the dying minutes and this most recent game went true to form except this time it was the visitors who overturned a 17-13 deficit with a try in the final 4 minutes to deny a revitalised Sutton.

In what was something of a scrappy game Sutton produced a much improved performance in all areas with a positive and energetic approach from the kick off. Strong scrums, an improved lineout and an attacking backline led by young fly half Ben Morgan restored a sense of urgency and sparkle to the Sutton game as the backs ran in an opening try by left wing Ian Miller following a spectacular multiphase build up, which started with a trademark break by skipper Fraser Tait in the Sutton half and passed through many hands swinging left and right, before fullback Nathan Burchell made the decisive push into the opposition 22 then delivered the scoring pass to the fast moving Miller, who completed an outstanding try with real style. The try came 5 minutes before the break and was converted by centre Alex White to cancel out a penalty by Old Hales fullback Chris Hooper, which had given the visitors a 3-0 lead after 15 minutes of play but the Sutton converted score gave them a deserved 7-3 lead at the break.

Sutton started the second half smartly and extended their lead to 12-3 just 5 minutes after the restart, when centre Jon Raistrick stretched his legs and raced round the defenders to score a superb try in the right corner. The try came following an overthrow at a defensive lineout in the Hales 22, which was gathered by Sutton's spritely fly half Ben Morgan, who pounced and promptly sent the quick centre on a sweeping run to the line showing the Raistrick pace and power to great effect... but unfortunately Old Hales responded immediately when right wing Luke Smith scored in the opposite corner following a break in midfield, when Old Hales recovered the ball at the restart and caught Sutton cold to close to 12-8.

Not to be denied Sutton quickly re-established their 9 point lead when skipper Fraser Tait drove over from close range with 30 minutes left to play but once again the visitors regained possession from the restart and highly rated, ex Sutton player Mark Evans was driven over in the left corner to frustrate Sutton and restore the 4 point margin, which in spite of the best efforts of both sides remained the margin until 5 minutes before the end when an opposition attack down the right wing sent a clever tactical cross field kick onto the left wing, which was gathered by winger Warren Oliver, who raced over for the clinching score to deny Sutton a deserved victory. Such are the hazards of a close game when chances to add to the score are not taken and the game ended 17-18 leaving Sutton stuck in 10th place but with everything to play for as they sit 10 points and 2 places clear of the relegation zone.

Sutton will be looking to continue their revitalised and upbeat approach when they travel to Burton this weekend seeking their first away win of the season. All supporters who make the short journey along the A38 will receive a warm welcome. KO 2.15.

Sutton other team results:

Last Sunday the Sutton Development side under coach Joe Gavin and manager Andy Hawkins gave the Sutton club something to celebrate when they overcame a strong Newbold 2nd team 7-0 to win the semi-final of the Warwickshire 2nd XV Trophy at Newbold to reach their 4th final in 5 seasons. The Sutton try was set up with a brilliant run through the mid-field by winger Dior Taylor (Chevel), scored by Matt Lawson and converted by fly half Miles Gregory just before halftime and then Sutton led by skipper Sam Harris showed great character and discipline in the second half to defend their lead against a very physical Newbold side and combining good defence with keen attacking play of their own, Sutton were rewarded with a place in the Final at the end of the season, to defend the Championship Trophy they currently hold. Watch this space for notification of the Final opposition and date.

Unfortunately Sutton 3rd XV found Old Silhillians 2nd XV too strong and suffered a 38-5 defeat at the RSG, Walmley Rd. on the Saturday.