Ives' tremendous start to the season hit a bump against a determined Dunstablians. The Bulls spent much more time in their opponents 22 than in their own, but could not convert pressure into points.
From the outset, Dees took advantage of hesitation in the Bulls’ defence. A speculative kick bounced into the arms of the winger following up, who scored close to the posts.
For twenty minutes Ives put together some magnificent phases of play with Olivers Raine, Bartlett and Giglio prominent in the build ups. Until they got close to the line. Dropped balls and individual decisions made the defenders work easier.
Still on the attack, an unusual loss of their own lineout put Ives on the back foot. A chip and chase again saw Dunstablians through for a try totally against the run of play.
The hosts’ chances were generated from distance. One break could have seen them stretch their lead, but superb scrambling from Elliott Mortimer saw the player felled.
As the half hour lapsed, the Bulls finally nailed one of a multitude of chances as the ball went through the hands to the unmarked Max Flint who scored out wide.
The half closed with a penalty to Dees and the score 17-5 to the hosts.
The second half continued where the first had ended, with Ives applying mounting pressure on the Dees' line. A third deliberate knock on finally led to a yellow for the hosts. From another penalty a quick tap saw Mickey Drake jinked his way past defenders to score under the posts, converted by Charlie Mandley.
Dees' defensive effort continued to frustrate Ives' attacks. Worse followed when possession was turned over in the Dees' 22. The home outside backs combined to score a length of the field try, which was followed up with a penalty.
Staring down the barrel, Ives continued to attack. Again, Dees could only keep them out by offending. As time elapsed, Ives gained consolation with a try by Marc Tirant, again converted by Mandley. But, the early profligacy had cost dear and it was too little, too late.
Head Coach Josh Dear cut a disconsolate figure. “What a frustrating afternoon for us as a team. We’ve set our stall out to play a certain way and with that you have to be clinical. Today we got ourselves in great positions to score plenty and fluffed our lines at the end.
“That gives us work-ons for training and we have to put that work in to be ready for the next game. To be that dominate in a game, play some excellent rugby at times, front up in defence and not take any points is disappointing.”