Bury hold off spirited Canterbury fightback

By JAMES SMITH

Bury St Eds…….30

Canterbury…….22

BURY St Edmunds enjoyed a winning return to National League competition as they held off visitors Canterbury.

The hosts took the lead after only 90 seconds with a try by Creighton after some slick interplay, and Reed converted.

Canterbury had most of the ball for the next 20 minutes, but failed to break down a disciplined Bury defence.

But, on 25 minutes, a line-out overthrow in the 22 was picked up by Canterbury and, after some juggling, Tyler dotted down by the posts. Reynolds converted to level.

On 31 minutes, Canterbury took the lead following a penalty that was kicked to the corner. A catch and drive routine led to a try by Herriott.

Three minutes later, a further penalty infringement resulted in a line-out to Canterbury in Bury's 22. Ball off the top was snatched up by Williams, who sped to the line unopposed. Reynolds added the extras.

On 38 minutes, Canterbury's King was yellowcarded and Reed kicked a penalty to make it 19-10 at the break.

With the second half less than two minutes old, Stanway chipped and chased to score and Reed converted. On 52 minutes, stout Bury defence resulted in a turnover and quick hands created a try for Bursey. Reed converted for a 24-19 lead.

A period of sustained pressure resulted in a penalty by Reed on 62 minutes. On 71 minutes Reynolds kicked a penalty for Canterbury, but Reed sealed Bury's win with a final penalty.