Spalding RFC overcame a determined Mansfield comeback to secure a 32-19 away victory and a five-point bonus win against their old rivals.
The match, reported on October 7, was Spalding’s first league meeting with Mansfield since 2019. Played on Mansfield’s notoriously sloping pitch, the game demanded a strong start from the visitors, who built a commanding lead before being tested after half time.
Spalding make fast start
Spalding were forced to defend from an early Mansfield opportunity after the referee ruled that one of their line-outs was not straight. From near his own try line, however, Willis Ingleby produced an excellent clearance kick down the slope, gaining 70 metres.
Mansfield attempted to run the ball back, but a strong tackle dislodged possession. Ingleby collected the loose ball and cut through the home defence to score Spalding’s first converted try.
Spalding’s press defence, led by Will Shields, Ryan Firth and Henry Hoyles in the back row, continued to restrict Mansfield. Full back Charlie Beecham then burst past two tackles after gathering a relieving kick, before passing to Ingleby for another try. The score gave Spalding a 12-point lead after 15 minutes.
The visitors also gained an advantage in the scrum, where Alex Newberry, returning hooker Tom Rollinson and Ash Anker put the Mansfield pack under pressure several times. Spalding’s line-out was described as much improved, with Henry Hobson and George Douglas securing possession before Firth also contributed later in the match.
After Mansfield conceded a high-tackle penalty, Ingleby kicked successfully. Within minutes, Gav Sharman received the ball on the left wing, escaped two tacklers and broke through the final challenge to score Spalding’s third try, which Ingleby converted.
Ingleby later created another opportunity with a 50-20 kick that gave Spalding a line-out, although Mansfield managed to steal the ball. Spalding nevertheless went into half time with a 22-point lead.
Changes after accident and injuries
Spalding’s preparations were disrupted when coaches Ali Sharp and Phil Trotman were involved in a car accident on the way to the match. Forwards coach Zokas Raimondas therefore made the calls during the game.
George Douglas and Ben Shields were also replaced after picking up knocks, with Ben Goose coming on at lock and Bailey Hudson joining the match on the wing. Lachlan Bateman had made his debut on the wing because Jack Lambe and Taylor Crowson were both unavailable with injuries expected to keep them out for six weeks. Gav Sharman switched to centre, while Henry Hoyles started at number eight. Tom Rollinson also made a welcome return at hooker.
Mansfield threaten a comeback
Spalding’s determination and teamwork remained important in the second half as they worked to contain Mansfield’s forwards. The report highlighted the visitors’ ability to make a second hard tackle when Mansfield broke the first challenge.
Ingleby then broke through and carried play towards the Mansfield try line. Firth was stopped inches short, but the ball was recycled and Newberry drove over in support to score under the posts. Ingleby converted, extending Spalding’s lead to 29 points.
Connor Broome replaced Anker in the front row and was quickly involved as Mansfield applied pressure near the Spalding posts. Mansfield scored after a penalty, scrum possession and a flowing move through the backs ended with their right wing crossing the line.
The home side then added another try from a maul and converted it, scoring 14 points within a few minutes. A further forward drive and a high tackle by Broome brought a yellow card, but Mansfield wasted the resulting scrum after Spalding were awarded a penalty and cleared their lines. A Mansfield player was also shown a yellow card after Beecham was blocked off the ball.
Spalding regained control late on. A strong carry by centre Ollie Machin drew a penalty, which Ingleby kicked to make the score 32-14. Mansfield needed three tries to win in the closing minutes and managed one more in the final minute, but Spalding held on for a deserved 32-19 victory.
Spalding’s next match is at home against local rivals Bourne. Kick-off is at 3pm on Saturday at Centenary Park.