What a game this was nip and tuck all the way. Nth Mids were still on the bus to start whilst Devon raced away with 2 converted tries and a penalty to open a 17 point lead within 13 minutes.
Mauro Miller opened Nth Mids scoring with a well taken winger try out clasing and out pacing his opposite number. Jacob Fewtrell converted and he was soon in action converting a penalty. Nth Mids were now back in the game when Sam Grimshaw burst through to score an unconverted try, 17 – 15 to the home side.
Nth Mids seemed to ease before half-time allowing Devon another converted try. 15 – 24 at half-time.
Direct from the start of the second -half Miller produced his silky skills to score another unconverted try 24 – 20 and edging closer. Then Devon converted a penalty pushing the score out again.
At this point North Midlands took a grip of the game with tries from Miller for his hattrick, George Meader and Chris Idehen, one of which was converted by Fewtrell who also converted a penalty. This opened the score to 27 – 40 to the visitors.
In the last few minutes with Nth Mids thinking the game was in the bag and there may have been an easing of concentration, This allowed Devon to score 2 quick tries both well converted to pinch the lead 41 – 40.
The game was restarted and immediately Nth Mids were awarded a penalty. Knowing this would most probably be the last play of the game the decision was “post” and Fewtrell stepped up and as Devon Radio commentator said “He up and it’s through…..” whatever else he said was lost in the screams of joy from the North Midlands players, officials and supporters present 41 – 43 to the visitors.
Michael Ho received the man of the match (North Midlands) for his dancing feet and elusive running.
The final which will be action Northumberland will be on Sunday 7th June at 3pm in the Twickenham Allianz stadium.
Here’s a link for some great photos courtesy of Andy Jepson photography – North Midlands Men V Devon RFU
