Doncaster Knights: Re-energised Knights '˜learnt their lesson' to defeat Eagles - Griffiths

Doncaster Knights boosted their hopes of finishing in top spot in Pool 5 of the B&I Cup.
Clive Griffiths: Doncaster Knights director of rugbyClive Griffiths: Doncaster Knights director of rugby
Clive Griffiths: Doncaster Knights director of rugby

Knights extended their lead over second-placed Jersey following their bonus point 40-0 win over Connacht Eagles in their penultimate group game.

The Islanders, who had to settle for a 24-12 win over Newport-Gwent Dragons Select, will need to pick up a bonus point win whilst denying Knights a point to deny them in Saturday’s decider at Castle Park.

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“It was a very good performance and the boys were energised following their week off,” said director of rugby Clive Griffiths.

“We learnt the lessons from our last game against them back in November - such as what happened at the breakdown - and we’ve incorporated them into every performance since.

“Although we beat them at Castle Park they played well and caught us on the hop. But, as I say, we put things right and led 26-0 at the break.

“We pride ourselves on our defence so it was pleasing to keep a clean sheet which doesn’t happen very often.

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“They threw everything at us in the closing stages but despite the fact the game was won we still worked hard to defend our line.”

Griffiths rung the changes and gave starting debuts to injury-hit fly-half Simon Humberstone and prop Joe Sprotson.

“Both did well,” said Griffiths.

“Simon had had a couple of cameo roles prior to Saturday and he will benefit from having played 65 minutes. Joe did well both in and out of the scrum.”

Centre Bevon Armitage staked his claim for a regular start, after an injury-hit start to the season with a tremendous team try.