FOOTBALL: PROMOTION hopes are back on the agenda for Birmingham & Solihull Bees following a 32-14 victory over Derby in their latest National League 3 Midlands fixture.
Led by Ben Phillips, Bees were helped by their young set of backs who played their part in serving up some entertaining rugby which defied tricky underfoot conditions.
Despite squandering some early territorial advantage, the Bees managed to build up a comfortable 19-3 lead by half time – scoring three tries in the process.
A solo effort from Tawanda Chipadza earned Bees their third try as the youngster collected a defensive kick on the 40metre line and dodged his way past six tackles before scoring under the posts.
Bees 16 point lead at half time came after Derby took an initial three point lead as centre George Castledine converted a penalty.
Tries from Ashley Scriven and then Michael Stephens though soon saw the home side signal their strong intent.
Derby started to claw their way back into the tie with two Castledine penalties – and they were handed a big opportunity when Chris Goddard was then sinbinned.
Strong game management saw Bees quickly restore their 16-point advantage though before Jevon Hinds added a fourth Bees try to put the result beyond any doubt at 32-9.
A consolation try for the visitors gave the final scoreline greater respectability from a visitor viewpoint.
Although Nuneaton won their top of the table clash against Sheffield and Broadstreet overcame Bridgnorth, the Bees remain in the hunt for a top four spot.
