Ionians stand firm to claim vital win

the start needed to retain the initiative; the pack drove several phases towards the Park line before the ball was swept across to winger Dan Tai, who stepped out of the tackle to race over the line – Millar adding the extras.

Foden then departed, mistakenly identified for a misdemeanour, and Park took full advantage to fashion a well-executed try for Mark Kohler. But Ionians held their nerve to earn the surprise win. HULL Ionians thoroughly deserved their narrow victory against visitors Rosslyn Park, delivering a performance of grit and determination, exemplified by the commitment of the outstanding Will Foden.

It all looked ominous for the home side in the opening exchanges. Park dominated and scored within the first five minutes when the lively Rory Brand sniped through from close range following a drive from the pack – Harry Leonard adding the extras.

But the home side girded their loins, and they gained reward after half an hour courtesy of a long-range Lee Millar penalty – repeating the trick a minute later.

Two further efforts from Millar fell just short, but visibly lifted the hosts, who went into halftime the more satisfied of the two teams.

And Ionians made just