Jersey's home dominance ruins Staines' chances of quick return

10:21am Wednesday 30th April 2008

Staines' hopes of winning promotion back to London One were dashed by a 15-0 defeat at Jersey on Saturday.

Against a side beaten just once at home in the past two years, head coach Eddie Jones tailored a game plan to stifle the running skills of the Islanders.

But it took Jersey just three minutes to score their first try and a further score under the posts saw the hosts lead 12-0 at half-time.

The second half was for much of the game played between the 22s, with Jersey just taking the edge.

Staines looked strong in the set scrum and did disrupt a number of Jersey scrummages.

Some ill-discipline by the visitors saw Jersey kicking for the lines and soon they were rewarded by a kickable penalty that was put between the uprights.

This put the game out of reach for the visitors.

With the game approaching the final whistle, Staines battled hard with notable performances by number eight Tom Cleary and centre Jon Turner.

With Jersey gaining promotion to London One, Staines must know look to improve their away record, it has been a good season with only six loses and 21 wins.

Their points difference compared to the other teams in London Two North is quite flattering, showing they are a team that can play great attacking rugby.

But they are aware of areas that need improvement and are philosophical in the approach that is needed to produce wins and are keen to accept the challenges that are laid down before them.

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