Wisbech held to a draw by Ipswich YM

Wisbech were forced to settle for a share of the league spoils with Ipswich YM following a 12-12 draw at Harecroft Road.

The match was preceded with both teams impeccably observing a minutes silence before kick-off to remember those who gave their lives in conflict and for the Wisbech player Arturas Rudys.

From the kick off, it was clear that both teams were desperate to win the game.

It was Ipswich who started the game the brightest, scoring off an unconverted try after a clever kick.

Ipswich YM had the majority of possession in the first half and it was determined Wisbech defence, which kept them from adding to their tally.

Winger Rory Willis securing a key turnover to relieve the pressure combined with dominant tackles from Luke Green.

At half-time, a rallying speech from captain Jack Malkin and key tactical input from Director of Rugby Leonard Veenendaal, inspired Wisbech to come straight out of the blocks in the second-half.

Club stalwart James Napier burst through for an unconverted try to even the scores 5-5.

The Wisbech scrum found its rhythm and took control with Nat Humphrey, Kerrie McMullen and Luke Green starting to win a number of scrum penalties.

With more possession, field position and quick ruck ball, Wisbech captain Jack Malkin slipped through the gap to power over for another five-pointer which he also converted to take Men in Red into the lead 12-5.

Ipswich YM continued to ask questions of Wisbech defence and the rest of the second-half became embroiled in close-quarters contact.

Wisbech's discipline cost them with Luke Green being sent to the sin-bin.

Down to 14 men, Wisbech desperately tried to keep Ipswich YM out but a penalty on the last play of the game, saw the visitors score under the posts to draw the match 12-all.

Both teams were disappointed with the draw, but the Men in Red took some comfort that they managed to have righted some wrongs from the previous fixture.

There was a notable team improvement from the week before, in particular Luke Green and Rory Willis, but Wisbech talisman Solomon Prestidge, who was outstanding in defence, was the Wisbech man of the match award.

Wisbech are away on Saturday when they travel to East Suffolk to take on Southwold Rugby Club (2.30pm).