Bulldogs Feel the Heat

Birmingham Bulldogs Rugby League FC began their match against Coventry Dragons in a brisk fashion but were ultimately undone largely by the home sides greater forward strength, and by the tenacity of the Dragons’ defence.

Brum opened the scoring after six minutes when left wing James Weller caught Edgar’s cross kick and just squeezed in at the corner; Edgar’s goal attempt hit a post and bounced out.

Bulldogs continued to play fluently and at quarter time went further ahead when good right-left handling put Weller over for his second try.
A penalty took Dragons deep into Birmingham territory and, from the restart, they launched an attack that ended with Sam Bull crossing for a try that scrum half Stuart Lee goaled.

HT: Coventry Dragons 6 Pts, Birmingham Bulldogs 8

Dragons began the second half with some purpose and a try from Ben Hands, converted by Lee gave them lead they were to keep. Soon after Lee joined the try-scorers’ list when he broke through to touch down by the posts, adding the goal himself.

Bulldogs were doing all they could with ball in hand: a fine break by Walker saw him just forced into touch. But another penalty concession by Brum – too many of these – led to home winger Danny Coleman touching down, Lee converting.

Back came Bulldogs: a great break by Burton set up an attack that saw Sam Edgar cross by the posts for a try that he converted himself to leave the visitors 10 points adrift at 24-14. Last word to Dragons, however, as Coleman crossed for his second try.

A disappointing outcome for Bulldogs after a bright start, but they can learn from the defeat.
Next Saturday, Bulldogs are away to Telford Raiders at Telford Hornets RUFC; kick off 2:30 pm

Toby Davies took man of the match honours for Brum with Curtis Harris and James Weller in contention.
Dave Whiting was Cov’s MOTM.

Summary: Coventry Dragons 28 Pts, Birmingham Bulldogs 14
Coventry: T. S.Bull, B.Hands, S.Lee, D.Coleman 2
G. S.Lee 4
Birmingham: T. J.Weller 2, S.Edgar
G. S.Edgar

Report by John Simkin