First win of season comes at a price for Doncaster

Doncaster's first win of the campaign will have prepared them well for their next two games on the road at Richmond and at home to Ealing Trailfinders a week later..
INJURY BLOW: Doncaster Knights' Michael Hills. Picture Scott MerryleesINJURY BLOW: Doncaster Knights' Michael Hills. Picture Scott Merrylees
INJURY BLOW: Doncaster Knights' Michael Hills. Picture Scott Merrylees

This victory, though, by three tries to two at home came at a cost, with flanker and captain Michael Hills possibly out until Christmas after suffering a nasty leg injury after only 23 minutes.

The Knights’ new fly-half, Tongan international Kurt Morath, who kicked a conversion and three penalties on his home Championship debut, was also injured as he required several stitches to the mouth.

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After a mediocre first half in which Hartpury deservedly led 17-6, Doncaster’s forwards began to live up to their reputation.

Possession and territory were gained and the pressure forced Hartpury’s pack into errors that turned the contest.

Flanker Rob Langley received a yellow card on 45 minutes, but lessons weren’t learned because only three minutes later, Doncaster earned a breakthrough when they were awarded a penalty try following the collapse of a scrum.

The gap between the two sides was cut to only four points and with Hartpury not able to add to their earlier tries, Doncaster gradually became stronger.

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The Knights, showing more confidence, then created an excellent move involving the pack and backs Morath and Tyson Lewis which resulted in full-back Cameron Cowell scoring, Morath converting to give the hosts a 20-17 lead.

Hartpury, though, were still dangerous opponents periodically, but on 78 minutes their enterprise proved fatal.

A long pass out to the wing was intercepted by three-quarter Steve McColl, who dashed more than 60 metres, unopposed, to score a thrilling try which stretched the lead to 28-17 and one that guaranteed victory.

Doncaster Knights: Cowell, McColl, Hayes, Matavesi, Lewis, Morath, James (Seniloli 78), Hislop (Williams 62), Hunter (Malcolm 72), Quigley (Sproston 53), Eames (Challinor 70), Hicks, Calladine, Hills (Tyrell 23), Ryan.

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Hartpury: Foley, Sheldon (Chamberlain 58), Eves, Forrester, Henry, Cozens (Cochrane 67), Bolt, Murphy (Morris 47), Stratford (Tanner 53), Gibson (Merrey 50), Craig, Linsell, Langley, Gilbert (Pashley 62) Grieve.

Referee: John Meredith.