After last weekends record win, this was an all together different performance that tested the defensive qualities of the Vikings, which thankfully resulted in a win come the end.

The first half showing was stronger, but the second-half was all the Pumas, as they attempted to out muscle Ray Smart’s side.

The visitors got on the scoreboard early through a successful driving maul that Darrin Bellingham was on the end of to dot down.

Will Creber on his senior debut made an impressive start, before an unfortunate injury ended his afternoon after just 10 minutes. In the build up to his withdrawal he ran an excellent line which created the opportunity for Tom Veillard to score a quick second try for the Vikings.

Matt Lomas successfully converted the score.

The home side were having periods of possession, and were working hard in the narrow channels, but we’re struggling to penetrate the Vikings defensive line.

Barnaby Paul soon extended the Vikings lead following another dominant driving maul in close to the Pumas line, as we went in 19 points to the good at half-time.

The second-half was an all together different showing as the Pumas frustrated the Vikings with a forwards heavy, narrow game plan. That proved effective.

The Vikings found themselves pegged into their own half fairly in the second period, and this is where they would remain for nearly all the half, as the Pumas had nearly all the possession.

The forwards were required to produce a heavy defensive shift, attempting to nullify the onslaught that ensued. In the most part we managed to keep Locks Heath at bay, until the defence eventually cracked through a driving maul. The try was converted.

Following that score the home side kept coming with their very specific game plan, which was not hugely attractive to watch for a spectator, but was effective.

The Vikings kept them out for another long period, and for much of the time close to our try line. Indiscipline was creeping in however, and penalties ensured the momentum remained with the home side.

The referees’ patience soon ran out, as Corey Wallis and Pierre de Garis were both given yellow cards within the space of one minute, following repeated infringements in the Vikings 22.

With the two man advantage the home side scored a further converted try from close range, to set about for a tense final 10 minutes.

The Vikings had an opportunity to relieve the pressure after finally securing the ball, but a handling error handed the ball back to the Pumas.

As the final minutes ticked by, Locks Heath came again seeking a potential match winning score. Thankfully the Vikings held strong to repel the final assaults of the Pumas, before causing a knock-on as the referee blew for full-time.

This was a hard fought victory for the Vikings, it was far from pretty, but we are pleased we managed to hang on in the end.

We now have a two-week break before we return to action away to Millbrook.