Pearce kicks 11 points as Hungerford beat Stags

Hungerford did the double over rivals Newbury Stags thanks to a 23-12 win that keeps them in with an outside chance of a top-three finish in the Counties 2 Tribute BBO South of South West division.

Visitors Hungerford, who were looking to bounce back from last week’s disappointing defeat to Maidenhead, were left fearing the worst when Stags, who were fresh from a win over rivals Reading, drew first blood and opened the scoring early on, racing into a 7-0 lead.

Rather than providing a platform for the home side, Stags’ opener seemed to serve as a wake-up call for Hungerford, who pulled to within four points when Joshua Pearce kicked a penalty before moving into the lead after Pearce converted Dan Holley’s try.

That was how it remained until half time as both sides appeared well-matched and struggled to create scoring opportunities.

With tries at a premium, Hungerford turned to the boot of Pearce, who kicked two penalties to hand the visitors some breathing space and a 16-7 lead.

Stags now needed to take some risks in search of a couple of scores but it was a mistake without the ball that cost them as Hungerford were awarded a penalty try after a spell of relentless pressure, making it 23-7.

The home side, who have looked much-improved of late, reduced the deficit with their second try of the afternoon but it was nothing more than a consolation for Stags, who were beaten for the third time in their last four outings.

With three games remaining fourth-placed Hungerford, who host league leaders Rams this weekend, are within seven points of their nearest rivals Abingdon and will hope for a favour from second bottom Stags, who welcome the Oxfordshire outfit to Monks Lane on Saturday.