RUGBY UNION: A SOLID team performance saw Rugby Welsh clinch an excellent 31-12 bonus point victory over a hard-working Birmingham Exiles outfit.
The basis for the victory came through their pack that generally controlled proceedings, particularly in the first half, as Exiles were left defending their line for long periods.
The Welsh scrum was particularly dominant and with Roche and Colledge winning plenty of lineout possession the home side were quickly on top.
However to Exiles credit their defence was superb both around the fringes and when Welsh moved the ball wide to their backs.
The back three of Guy Shaw, George Lowe and Gareth Hart counter attacked well when Exiles tried to clear their lines and eventually Welsh pressure paid off midway through the half. Following a lineout Matty Richards crashed over from short range with Angus Wilson converting from near the touchline.
The rest of the half saw Welsh continue to be in charge and they doubled their lead right on half time when Adam Bond powered his way over for a try which Wilson converted.
After the break the Exiles were rejuvenated and their forwards began to win more possession for their backs to work with. They quickly narrowed the gap with an unconverted try and with their half backs looking dangerous they looked like they would get back into the contest.
However Welsh responded well and Adam Bond created a try for youngster Lowe who deservedly scored in the corner.
Shortly afterwards Welsh clinched their bonus point when the forward set up a driving maul and with Exiles coming in from the side to prevent a certain score a penalty try was awarded.
Exiles never stopped trying and their lively scrum half deserved his try which was converted. However Welsh deservedly had the final word when following further forward pressure James Buckland danced through a couple of tackles to score a try
