South Leicester 38 Rugby Welsh 42
In an entertaining game Welsh had to survive a fierce second half comeback from their committed opponents, but managed to achieve another satisfying bonus point victory.
On a large pitch Welsh began quickly and were soon ahead when James McGill made a break inside his own half and linked up with winger Matt Cockman who raced in for a try converted for Adam Frost. The home side gave away a few penalties in the first half and Frost kicked well out of hand to put Welsh in strong attacking positions. Thompson and Higham won plenty of lineout possession and from a five metre lineout winger Cockman joined the drive and showed good strength to score a try, excellently converted by Frost.
South Leicester responded with an unconverted try but Welsh completed the first half scoring when Jack Taylor spotted a gap, put Matt Cockman away and he completed a first half hat trick.
The second half began well for Welsh and within five minutes they looked to be in complete control as firstly McGill and Taylor combined to give Matt Cockman another try, before McGill raced in for a try, both converted by Frost.
To South Leicester’s credit they responded well, with their larger forwards winning more possession and their powerful centres causing Welsh problems. Welsh battled hard, but their opponents scored three tries, two of which were converted to narrow the gap with 20 minutes left. Welsh regathered and with Corin Woolman performing well on his first outing at hooker, the back line created another opportunity for McGill to show good strength to score a try. Frost converted to complete an immaculate kicking performance which was to prove crucial. South Leicester continued to throw everything at the Welsh defence and they narrowed the gap to one score with further tries. However Welsh held on and maintained their strong start to 2024.
This week Welsh have a home game against Stamford OB at Alwyn Road Kick off 2: 15pm