By David Challis

Despite an excellent first 60 minutes, TJs succumbed to a rampant final quarter from Birmingham Moseley as they slipped to their 15th defeat of the season, 39-16 in National League 1 on Saturday.

The home side simply ran out of steam while Birmingham grew into this game and demonstrated their class at this level.

TJs opened the game the stronger and dominated the early exchanges with a much-improved scrum yielding a couple of penalties and turnover ball. However, the home side lacked a cutting edge to really break down a Birmingham side who held resolute in defence despite giving away a few penalties.

As a result, Tom White was forced to opt for goal on two occasions, opening up a 6-0 lead during the first quarter. However, Birmingham managed to hit back just before half-time and found some territory inside the TJs 22.

A yellow card to returning hooker Ryan Jackson and a try soon after was a killer blow for the home side who had spent much of the first half on top. Instead they returned to the sheds a point behind.

The second half began with a lot more of an even feel during the first ten minutes or so. However, on this occasion it would be TJs who struck first. Off the back of a strong line out and a hard first up carry, Toby Freeman burst round the corner to scythe through the defensive line and score his first try for the club.

It was duly converted by White and suddenly TJs had the initiative. However, this one was to be short-lived as the back three of Birmingham began to run riot off the kick return. A series of classy breaks led to a kickable penalty and the away side closed the gap.

From here, Birmingham kicked on and found space through the middle of the TJs defence. Great phaseplay saw Birmingham hit the front with a lovely score. White quickly hit back with a penalty of his own to put TJs within one point but it was from here the game began to unravel.

TJs had defended valiantly for much of the game and it seemed that all their energy was spent. Birmingham sensed the moment and managed to go up a gear in the final 15 minutes. Three tries later and the game was all sewn up as TJs fell apart trying to cling on.

It was another valiant display against top opposition but TJs simply have to find something more if they are to pick up more wins this season. An improved scrum and line-out helped but more is required to bring the good times back to the Slade.