Bulldogs Much Improved Despite Defeat

Birmingham Bulldogs Rugby League FC travelled to reigning Midlands Premier Champions on the back of a 58-0 defeat by league leaders Coventry Dragons. However, this was a much-improved performance by Brum whose ranks included four players making their debuts.

Ten minutes in, and Demons went over in the right hand corner for an unconverted try. Two minutes later, and the hosts scored a second try which was converted to make the score 10-0.

It looked ominous for Bulldogs, but they fought back in style, keeping their opponents out for the reminder of the
half whilst mounting some good attacks themselves. One run from Stephenson saw him just forced into touch.

HT: Northampton Demons 10 Pts, Birmingham Bulldogs 0

Northampton took a grip early in the second half and posted three converted tries over a 16-minute spell.

But, showing great resilience, Birmingham came back with a try as good as any in the match. Stephenson made a break in his own half, then, just as he was being tackled, he a managed to offload to winger Chev Walker whose storming run took him clear of the home defence for a try under the posts that was converted by centre Danny Bancroft.

Brum, however, failed to gather the restart, which gave Demons an attacking position from which they crossed for another, converted try.

Back came Bulldogs, debutant winger Liam Lindsey finishing a move by going over in the right corner for a try.

Last word went to Northampton with a late, unconverted try.

The losing margin was harsh on Brum, who made Demons work hard for their win.

Joe Gregory was Bulldogs’ man-of the match, with Matt Beattie and Kevin Wilson in contention.

Next Saturday [June 20] Bulldogs are at home to Nottingham Outlaws “A” (Kick off 2:30)