Nuneaton Old Edwardians 31, Spartans 26.

In a thrilling game which typified the weekly nature of this very competitive league, Spartans faced a fired up Nuneaton outfit who were keen to show their history and status did not match their league position.

From the off it was 'Nuns who started the quicker, and with quality players in key positions Spartans found themselves on the back foot as the home side went for broke. Both sides had penalty opportunities but kicks went just wide, and with 'Nuns having all the territory seasoned campaigner Ashley Kalnins ran the show as a big threat in attack and defence. Spartans went behind to two quick tries from Kalnins and the potential for a long afternoon stared Spartans in the face until a breakout saw them snatch a try against the run of play. Suddenly, Spartans rallied and the game completely changed in a ten minute spell which saw he visitors force another two quick tries from good field positions and Nuneaton were left reeling with an unbelievable half time score of 14 - 19.

As expected, 'Nuns threw the kitchen sink at Spartans in the second half and with the wind behind them the home side showed some slick skills in attack, but some committed defence kept the scoreboard still and penalty chances went begging. Ironically, having stolen the ball and trying to run out of danger Spartans threw 'Nuns an interception for a try beneath the sticks and a simple penalty put the home side back in charge. At 24 - 19 'Nuns continued to dominate but Spartans refused to lie down and made a determined defensive effort until a harsh yellow card gave the home side a numerical advantage from which they inevitably scored. Again Spartans responded well and showed some real guts to make progress against the run of play, forcing their way deep into 'Nuns territory. With backs and forwards working well together, a final try of stunning beauty earned the Men In Black two bonus points as a reward for their efforts and brought the curtain down on an excellent contest.

Spartans take a break for Easter this week before their final visit to mighty Banbury on April 11th.