Prop impresses as Rams secure bonus point win

MAN-OF-THE-MATCH James Baker wanted “to show what I’m about” after inspiring Rams to a 40-19 bonus-point home win against Tonbridge Juddians last Saturday, writes Richard Ashton.

The tight-head prop, extending his club record as most-capped first-team league player to 441, was dominant at scrum time and helped assist Morgan MacRae’s second try with a scintillating break.

Inside centre MacRae had earlier opened the scoring with a sensational run-in from a goal-line drop-out, Mike Cooke on target and after Luke Graham crossed for 19-0.

Tonbridge hit back with a converted Nathan Earle try before the break, but Rams regrouped and Charlie Robson dotted down midway through the third quarter.

Earle reduced the arrears to 26-12, but Axel Kalling-Smith and Graham went over before Tom Kendrick’s final-play consolation.

Having come off the bench against Dings Crusaders and Sale in the past fortnight, Baker shone on his first start of the season, stating: “It’s been a long time coming with a few injury setbacks, but I was ready to give it my best shot and show what I’m all about.

“I want to prove what I’m all about, it’s been a hard pre-season, so I’m glad I could go out and show what I can do.

“With scrummaging we have to believe in our processes, there was a big focus in the week about keeping our chests down which we were able to do, and it meant we were able to give it to them.” He continued: “I’m not sure I’m getting better, but maybe I’m getting wiser. I can get into the right places, experience is the key thing for me, the more I play the rugby knowledge keeps growing.

“I’ve always had decent skills but now at a higher lever level you just have to keep working harder and try and stay fit.” And keeping the stalwart on his toes are summer signings such as George Breese and Max Marshall, along with Rams’ dynamic continuity approach.

Baker ended: “Every year the young guys come in, lots of tight-heads and I’ve got to be on my game. I get a lot of respect from everybody at the club, but I have to show all the time I’m plausible. To have these guys coming in and pushing the club forward is brilliant.

“And this fast game we’re playing is coming off — I’m pleased I’m still able to keep up with it.”

Rams visit Leeds Tykes tomorrow (Saturday), kick-off 3pm.