WITH a few key players returning from injury, Stoke were looking to put in a winning performance against fellow bottom of the table side Weybridge Vandals last Saturday in London Three South West.

Within the first 10 minutes, all looked like it was going to plan, with the hosts starting brightly and managing to sustain a long period of pressure in the oppositions 22. Unfortunately, Stoke were unable to convert this pressure into points and basic errors and a penalty soon saw Weybridge scoring two quick tries.

From this, some more basic errors and missed first up tackles soon saw Vandals in complete control and they started to rack up the points.

During this time, Stoke did have a fair share of possession, but found the oppositions defence and ability to slow the game down difficult to break.

With 15 minutes to go, Stoke finally clicked into gear and Matt Guilfoyle scored their first try which Kurtis Eagle converted.

They then added another score from impact sub Grant Murdoch, which Eagles added the extras again as the hosts finished positively, but ended up on the wrong side of a 42-14 scoreline.

Stoke are hoping that their ability to play off of the front foot will motivate them for their next crucial game away to Old Cranleighian this weekend.