Wisbech Wildcats came out on top in the Fenland Cluster event under the floodlights at Ely RFC last Friday.
Some last-ditch defensive work kept a well-drilled Ely second XV out during a bright start, before Wildcats began to string some phases of play together.
After a penalty was kicked to the corner, Wisbech Round Table man of the match Jason Luffman set up a driving maul for captain Olly Mackett to finish off a well-worked forwards move and open the scoring.
And with some big tackles going in from both sides, the Wildcats sealed a 12-0 win when quick hands in the backs saw Paulius Tamoliunas touch down for a try, which was converted by Harry Newman.
Cambridgeshire Fire Service were up next and, despite playing together for only the second time this season, made a strong start as their number eight ran fully 60 metres before being tackled into touch.
Wisbech were first onto the scoreboard, though, as lovely interplay between Nesvarbu Kas and Tamoliunas saw the latter touch down for his second try of the night, converted by Newman.
Kas went over himself with a fine individual effort, which was also converted by Newman, but the Fire Service hit back with a converted try of their own to delight their supporters.
Wildcats had the last word, though, as stand-in fly-half Freddie Napier touched down for their third try to secure a 19-7 win, as Kerrie McMullen missed the conversion and Dave Wadsley was named man of the match.
Captain Mackett said: “It’s another successful Friday night under the lights fixture, which Wisbech have attended and we really enjoy this RFU initiative to get all players some game time. I’m looking forward to our guys getting the opportunity to play a home game in a couple of weeks.”
Wildcats visit leaders Haverhill this weekend, as the first XV host West Norfolk in a local derby.
Director of rugby Leonard Veenendaal said: “These Friday night under the light fixtures are a great opportunity to introduce young players to adult rugby alongside experienced players, as well as some valued game time for players returning from injury and those who find it difficult to play on Saturdays.
“Wisbech RFU thank Ely RFC for hosting the Fenland Cluster and their exceptional warm and friendly hospitality on the ngiht.”
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