DIRECTOR of Rugby Seb Reynolds believes Rams achieved a huge step forward despite a 35-21 National One defeat at unbeaten table-toppers Plymouth Albion.
An unbelievably bad start saw the visitors 21-0 down after just eight minutes, with Iwan Jenkins, Jarrad Hayler and Oscar Stewart dotting down.
Dan Swain was also in the sin-bin for the Old Bath Road men, yet they showed incredible character from then on.
The rest of the first half was pointless, though Albion again flexed their muscles early in the second period, with Jake Clemson securing the bonus point.
Henry Kirwan then got Rams off the mark, Ross McKay converting from the touchline.
Plymouth replied through Noah Fenton and Jenkins’ boot, making it 35-7. But two converted Pete Austin tries late in the game meant Rams left Brickfields with a positive mindset.
Reynolds said: “After the first eight minutes it looked like it could have been a cricket score.
“We couldn’t do anything right. But after that we managed to establish a platform.
“We showed great character. We had things we wanted to achieve in the game, and while we didn’t get them all
done, we got most.
“They showed grit, determination, character and proved to themselves what they can do. Despite getting nothing, the guys come away a better side, and that’s what we wanted to achieve.”
Reynolds added: "With this group, time on the pitch together is crucial. They are learning all the time. As much as it would be brilliant, these things don’t happen immediately. If you could just throw a bunch of young lads together and have them do it every week, it would be remarkable.”
Rams face another tough match this Saturday (3pm) when they host third-placed Camborne, who have won eight of their nine matches.
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