RUGBY UNION: CHRISTMAS cobwebs were blown away as AEI and Rugby Welsh contested their traditional festive encounter.
The game started off quickly with Welsh scoring a converted try in the opening couple of minutes through guest Jamie Mapeltoft.
AEI responded quickly through a powerful burst from their prop forward before Welsh retook the lead with a try from Adam Bond, all within the first ten minutes.
The game settled down with Welsh looking to move the ball wide to use their quick backs effectively.
AEI tackled hard throughout and looked to use their large pack to deny Welsh possession.
With a player in the sin bin following a high tackle, Welsh were able to score two converted tries before half time, one following a five metre lineout and Chris Grant finished off a well worked three quarter move involving Jack Taylor and Bond.
The second half saw AEI start well with their prop again showing good power to crash over from short range for a converted try.
However Welsh generally regained control and used the wind effectively to ensure the game was played in the opposition half.
Adam Bond and guest Randolph Scott scored tries before the final try of the game came through the forwards, all of which were well converted by Mapletoft.
The match provided Welsh with some good preparation as they return to league action against Birmingham Exiles this weekend.
