Cambridge show more resilience during latest RFU Championship defeat at hands of Bedford Blues

While there was no repeat of the heavy defeats from their two previous outings, Cambridge were nevertheless still beaten during Saturday’s RFU Championship clash with neighbouring Bedford Blues.

Richie Williams had been critical of his side after they had shipped 118 points in back-to-back losses at the hands of Ealing Trailfinders and Hartpury University.

But although the result did not go Cambridge’s way at Ellgia Fields, Williams will have been pleased with a more resolute display during the 22-12 reverse.

Cambridge enjoyed plenty of territory and possession during the first half but they were unable to make it count and headed into the break without troubling the scoreboard.

Bedford, meanwhile, also struggled for any attacking fluidity but they did notch up one unconverted try from Sean French to give them a 5-0 advantage.

The visitors took control of the encounter soon after the restart courtesy of quickfire tries from Dean Adamson and Will Malsey before Matty Williams chalked up Cambridge’s first points of the proceedings with a try in the corner.

He also dotted down again in the final minute, which was converted by Varsity Match-winning fly-half Jamie Benson, but not before Luke Frost had crossed the whitewash to secure a try bonus point for Bedford.

Second-from-bottom Cambridge, who have won twice this season, will return to action on 23 March at home versus eighth-placed Nottingham.