Ely Tigers 10 – 24 Ipswich RFC – Storm Amy Shapes a Tough Home Contest
After a two-week break, Ely Tigers returned to league action at the Pocock + Shaw Ground, hosting Ipswich RFC in difficult weather conditions brought by Storm Amy. Despite a strong start, the Tigers fell short as Ipswich claimed a 24–10 win.
Ely struck first when Matt McCarthy crossed the line following a well-worked team move. His conversion attempt drifted wide, leaving the hosts five points ahead. Ipswich were soon reduced to 14 players, but Ely couldn’t make the numerical advantage count.
The visitors responded by moving the ball wide to exploit space and scored their opening try, successfully converting to take the lead. In the second half, Ipswich extended their advantage with another unconverted try, then capitalised on a loose Ely pass deep in the visitors’ half to run in a third.
Ely rallied as John Surby appeared to have grounded the ball, but the referee ruled it held up. From the ensuing restart, Ely’s pressure paid off as McCarthy powered over for his second try. Any hopes of a late comeback were dashed when Ipswich added one final try to close out a 24–10 victory.
Though the result didn’t go their way, the Tigers displayed grit and flashes of attacking promise in blustery conditions.
📸 Photo: Try-scorer Matt McCarthy – @rugby__tog photographer
🏠 Ely Tigers RFC – Cambridgeshire RFU