Shelford Vets 26 Royston Vets 15 COLIN Letch suffered a defeat in his first game as Royston captain, with a powerful Shelford side scoring two late tries. The home side started the stronger, with their big centres and wingers taking advantage of the wide

Shelford Vets 26 Royston Vets 15

COLIN Letch suffered a defeat in his first game as Royston captain, with a powerful Shelford side scoring two late tries.

The home side started the stronger, with their big centres and wingers taking advantage of the wide pitch.

Royston had to be on their guard and the back row of Tony Richardson, Kirk Woodford, and Letch were quick in the tackle.

And against the run of play, it was the visitors who took the lead, with Paul Dacey slicing through the Shelford line, and freeing Neil Smith to score in the corner.

Shelford soon responded, and used the power in their backs to bundle over for a try of their own - a tactic that would pave the way for three more.

Despite Shelford's powerful play, Royston's Kevin Green, Dave Howell, Tim Boyce and Roy Phillips did their best to put the hosts on the back foot.

And as a result Woodford grabbed another try for Royston, with their pack surging towards the shelford corner.

Dacey and Smith combined again for Royston's third try, with Dacey's deft chip finding Smith to dive home.