SEDGLEY Tigers coach Steve Hazzelby was happy with another victory on the road at Hull Ionians but admits slight disappointment the National Two North leaders could not get the extra bonus point.

The Park Lane outfit won 28-21 on Humberside to maintain their unbeaten start to the season.

Matt Gallagher scored the first try of the match for the visitors inside the first 10 minutes and young prop John Blanchard bagged another converted score before the interval after the hosts had edged 7-5 ahead in between.

In the second half, Oli Glasse crossed for a third after a Steve Collins drop goal and he kicked two penalties and a conversion to seal victory.

Hazzelby told the club’s website: “Past results against Hull have always been close games with the home team usually taking the points.

“We were upbeat and positive following a great start to the season but were taking nothing for granted and knew that we had to start well against a well-organised defensive team.

“It was a lively start with both teams kicking tactically to gain territory and possession and we looked to work the ball into the wide channels and stretch their defence at every opportunity.

“Our phase play was excellent and our set-piece was good with a solid scrum and accurate lineout.

“After Hull scored it was looking that we might go into the half-time break chasing the game and playing into a strong wind in the second half but a great score for young prop John Blanchard after a patient build up by the whole team, gave us a 12-7 lead.

“The second half started well with a great drop goal into the wind from fly-half Steve Collins after one minute. This was followed eight minutes later with a wonder try for centre Oli Glasse after a searing break from full-back Andy Riley, supported by winger Jamie Harrison.

“Steve added the conversion and we were now 22-7 in the lead.

“However Hull broke back with a converted try for their powerful flanker to stay in the game at 22-14.

“The game at this point could have gone either way with both teams going uncompromisingly hard at each other with no ground given.

“Another opportunist drop goal from Collins further extended our lead but a breakaway score for Hull saw the game finely balanced at 25-21 going into the final stages of the match.

“But another penalty for Steve saw us take the points 28-21 and a four-point win against a very good side who will win the majority of their games this season.

“We were a bit disappointed that we could not get the bonus point but were happy with the win, still undefeated and still top of the league.

“This Saturday we are at home to old rivals Luctonians. They have not started the season well with only one win.

“Despite this they are always a hard team to play against with a strong pack of forwards and hard running backs.

“We are looking to put in a solid performance with a win before we have a well-deserved break the week after.

“All support is welcome so come down and support the Tigers and have a great day watching the rugby and enjoying the hospitality.”