NORTH East Worcestershire Ravens director of rugby Jason Spafford revealed his pride in his players, despite a depleted side suffering a 62-30 home defeat to Boston Buccaneers in Midlands Division One.
A couple of late pull-outs meant Ravens fielded only 12 players and the 13-man visitors duly took advantage, scoring three tries in 13 minutes.
Boston led 28-18 at half time as Ravens refused to be overpowered, grabbing three tries themselves.
David Wimbury scored from close range after a sneaky dummy created an opening, skipper Liam Dunne drove hard over the line and full back Alex Paynter used his pace for a smart finish. WImbury converted all three tries.
In the second period, Boston again increased their lead with three tries before Mark Austin touched down for the hosts, Wimbury converting.
Dunne had the final word for a defiant home side with the final try, again converted.
“I’m really proud of the lads,” said Spafford. “We had a few playing through injuries and welcomed back Lee Knight from a long-term sit-out, but the determination of the lads to all be back together was brilliant and really showed the Ravens’ spirit.
“It’s been a hard season but the core of the team has grown further and stayed strong and I couldn’t be prouder of their attitude and growing friendships on and off the pitch.”
Ravens visit Sherwood Wolf Hunt on Saturday (2.30pm) as part of a charity fun day. For further details, visit the Facebook page or www.newravensrl.co.uk.
