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Dons beaten after battling to the last
THE Dons' hopes of getting their 2010 Northern Rail Cup campaign off to a winning start were derailed by Swinton Lions at Park Lane.
But the Pool A clash between rival Championship One sides was in the balance until a last-minute converted try secured the Lions a 30-20 win.
The Dons had led 20-12 at the interval after trailing 12-0 after 10 minutes.
"We got off to a slow start and conceded two early tries, but we showed a lot of character to hit back," said head coach Tony Miller.
"We scored four tries without reply and we played some really attractive football and we were good value for our half-time lead.
"We spoke in the changing room about completing our sets, and also kicking the ball into the corners and making them bring it out. But we didn't do either that well and ultimately paid the price.
"But I couldn't fault the commitment or the endeavour from the players – we just played a bit dumb at times and lacked a bit of composure.
"We turned the ball over three or four times in their half in the last 10 minutes when they were down to 12 men and the game was there to be won.
"I thought our last play option was poor throughout the second half and that contributed to the defeat.
"Having said that, the game could have gone either way and their late try gave a false impression.
"Obviously I am disappointed to have lost, but there were a lot of positives and we have set ourselves a marker we need to build on.
"We have got a young squad, and we were without four players through injury, and yet we still could have beaten a side who have spent a bit of money on players and who are expected to do well in the league this season."
Former Dons forward Ken Burt, who had suffered poor health in recent years, died over the weekend.
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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