Derby Win

Crusaders 21 – Wymondham 17

Crusaders gained an important league scalp in this hard fought derby win over Wymondham the home side blitzed their near neighbours with three quality trys in the first 30 minutes without reply. Two trys from Alex Kelsall playing at full back and a try from Henry Joy were all converted for a 21 – 0 lead. Wymondham steadied the ship and played out the remainder of the half without any further damage.
Crusaders reapplied the pressure in the second half and it took some desperate defending by the visitors to prevent a further score and resulted in a yellow card. Despite their man advantage Crusaders could not add to their score and Wymondham took good advantage of a penalty in their own 22 to move play to within 15 metres of the Crusaders line, a well worked lineout move gave Andy McKay and the visitors their first unconverted try. Galvanised by their success the visitors pack began to win more ball and Crusaders were awakened from their temporary slumber when a Josh Wright converted try brought the score to 21 – 12 game on. A retaliation from full back Kelsell gained a yellow card which meant Crusaders were without a full back for the last 10 minutes. Crusaders anxiety increased when Rob Morris scored Wymondham’s 3rd try and Crusaders’ supporters heaved big sigh at the final whistle 21 – 17.