Crusaders 5, Holt 9On a day perfect for rugby, Holt played up the slope in the first half and took play into their opponents' half with positive attacking rugby, but were unable to open the scoring.

Crusaders 5, Holt 9

On a day perfect for rugby, Holt played up the slope in the first half and took play into their opponents' half with positive attacking rugby, but were unable to open the scoring.

The game then see-sawed and with both sides coping with attacks against them, the scoreboard stayed blank as half-time was approaching. Holt cleared their lines and were awarded a penalty with a minute remaining, 30 yards out. They opted to kick at goal and Allen converted the kick.

On the run of play Holt just about deserved this slender advantage and with the slope in their favour for the second half felt confident in increasing the lead.

But, as Holt had shown, playing up the slope is no disadvantage and Crusaders scored an unconverted try after 10 minutes to gain the lead 5-3.

Holt went back onto the offensive and earned a penalty two minutes later, still a little way out, but Allen kicked his second conversion to regain the lead 6-5.

This inspired Holt to produce some determined play, keeping play well into their opponents' half, but without scoring that ellusive try. But they were awarded another penalty after 20 minutes for Allen to complete his hat-trick to extend the lead to 9-5.

Crusaders for the last 10 minutes kept play in Holt's half seeking a try. Despite giving away a number of penalties, Holt contained a wave of attacks.

Overall, Holt could feel they narrowly deserved the points with their pack having dominated in the loose with some very well-controlled driving mauls and the backs showing what they are capable of.

Next, Holt are at home to Cantabrigians in a league match, and on recent results could be scenting a win.