Ives ended up with a comfortable win against a spirited Casuals after tightening up their defence in the second half.

The game could not have started worse for the hosts, knocking the ball on from the start and grating Casuals an attacking scrum. A first phase move saw the centre gallop through to open the scoring with a converted try.

Ives bounced back immediately as Joe Cox’ grubber was pounced on by Albiee Tayedzerwa to score.

With the Bulls in the ascendancy it was down to poor choices in attack that no tries were added before Casuals responded. Twice in quick succession, first phase moves of the scrum saw space created and the winger rounding Ives’ defence to score.

With Casuals pressurising Ives defence, a yellow was issued for offside at a penalty. Down to 14 men, this sparked Ives into life. Mitch Newman made a jinking break in midfield, slipping the ball to Cox who scored under the posts.

With one conversion a side, the half time score was 17-all.

Soon after, some excellent ball retention and continuity saw Ives stretch the Casuals defence until Adam Williams cantered through a gap to score.

Casuals were not done and through everything at the Ives. 

Having weathered the storm, Ives broke upfield only to be dragged back by Casuals infringements. Eventually, another tap and go saw Ashbridge go over for his second.

Another penalty concession to prevent a score was converted by Cox who, with two second half conversions, ended the day with 14 points.

Head Coach Paul Humphreys reflected on a mixed performance. “A bonus point win at home is always a good thing.  Our attack was good, we made inroads at will. Unfortunately, our decision-making in the Casuals 22 did not help our cause.

Final Score: St Ives 39, Northampton Casuals 17

Ives 2nd XV entertained Mildenhall Red Lodge in the Eastern Counties league. A feisty encounter that meant Ives ended up losing 12-29. 

On Sunday, two Ives junior sides were in action against local rivals Stags. At the Chicken Shack, Ives U15 won a thrilling match. The U14 were heavily defeated at the Racecourse. 

The U13 travelled to Royston and pulled off a victory.