Burntwood Development squad earned a hard-fought win at home to Uttoxeter 2nds.
After a close, physical, competitive encounter they edged home 7-5.
Like the firsts, they also made a slow start and found themselves under pressure for the opening 10 minutes. They gradually turned the tide but not enough to break the stalemate which remained scoreless up to the break, both sides having missed penalty kicks at goal.
The deadlock was broken by the hosts. Hal Gozubucuk crashed his way through several would-be tacklers from a tapped penalty to cross the line. Martin Ottey converted.
Suitably encouraged, Burntwood enjoyed the majority of possession but a Uttoxeter break out of defence led to their score. A kick and chase left Danny Lake with a difficult ball to take. He collected it under pressure but had it knocked free over the line for the Uttoxeter winger to score.
The visitors had a chance to win with a late penalty but the kick was just off target. Burntwood retained possession to close the game out and keep their slender lead.
Star man for Burntwood was Anthony Cadman, back in his familiar role at scrum half. He constantly harassed his opposite number, allowing the rest of his back line to close their opponents down.
Ben Poulton had a fine game in the forwards, tidying up line out possession and grafting well in the loose play.
Elsewhere a depleted Burntwood 3rd string found Willenhall 3rds a tough proposition at Bognop Road, the home side running out 63-7 winners.
On Saturday (December 19) the Development XV host Trentham 2nds and the 3rds are also at home, Wolverhampton 3rds being the visitors.