The Ravens travelled to Newport to compete against Telford for the Shropshire Plate.
Telford, who are 2 divisions higher opted to play with the slight slope and significant wind advantage in the first half in unpleasant squally conditions.
Telford dominated proceedings from the off, their back row securing possession for the very sharp set of backs. Drayton didn’t really get going. What ball they won was slow, and Telford’s blitz defence ensured that stand off Alex Jeavons’ option were restricted.
Most seriously however, was the green and blacks inability to adjust to the referee, and consequently position and pressure was ceded throughout the game.
Telford slotted an early penalty for a 3-0 lead, but despite looking dangerous and enjoying the vast majority of the ball, they were unable to breach Drayton’s resilient defence.
The Ravens went into the break at 3-0 down, a scoreline they would have happily taken at the outset, especially as they hadn’t got out of first gear, and were clearly missing the absent Dave Adams’ tenacity at the breakdown.
Early in the second half, Drayton secured a turnover but then foolishly conceded a penalty 40 yards out, which was brilliantly converted by Telford to extend the lead to 6-0.
This was a turning point, as Drayton finally got their act together and began to dominate position. A number of kickable penalties were spurned as recognised place kicker James Spencer was injured, and this was to prove decisive.
Drayton eventually worked the ball wide to go over in the corner, but the referee appeared to be the only person on the park to have spotted a forward pass earlier in the move.
Drayton were making the most of Telford’s tiring back row, and were held up close to the line several times. Mez Burns, Tom Lavender and Stu Pemberton looked dangerous when they did get ball in hand, but Telford deserve congratulations for an outstanding defensive effort, holding out till the final whistle for a 6-0 victory.
Lessons have been learnt. Penalties have to be kicked, and although Drayton showed that they can match sides from a much higher level, success is down to finer margins and taking chances when they present themselves.
Nevertheless, despite the disappointment, it has been the most successful season in the club’s history, and the club extends their thanks to all who have contributed and supported.
Drayton’s season draws to a close with the annual President’s XV vs Chairman’s XV at Greenfields on Saturday at 3pm. All former players are welcome to dust off their boots and join in.
