Stamford Rugby Club beat Lincoln in the NLD Shield semi-final

Stamford Rugby's first team will be aiming to follow in the successful footsteps of their fellow club-mates after reaching the final of the NLD Shield.

Town will face Mellish in the final at Newark on Saturday, May 27, after their 38-19 semi-final success over Lincoln at the weekend.

After victory in their respective competitions for the club's women's, Under 14s and Under 16s teams, the senior side will now be aiming to match their winning exploits after a strong campaign in Midlands 2 East (South).

Stamford entered the game on Saturday with a youthful side - the average age of the back line being only 20 years of age.

A fantastic start from Stamford saw Austin Baker catch the kick off to gain possession and put them on the front foot.

The possession was heavily in Stamford's favour early on as they battled away with a strong Lincoln side.

Eventually the stubborn Lincoln defence gave way with the Stamford driving line out being used to great effect as Harley Riches benefitted with two tries in the first 25 minutes.

Next up some brilliant phases allowed Stamford to get two further tries from Harrison Sheppard and Michael Harris.

Lincoln started brightly in the second half, getting a try back, however George Howard and Sheppard combined for the latter's second score and a try of the season contender.

Steven Fuches was outstanding all game for Stamford, converting four of the six tries.

Ian Downer kicked well out of hand for vital territory which Stamford capitalised on while Tristan Small and Ben Chisholm led the way with the big hits throughout the game.

Stamford ended the game with a flourish as Fuches ran back a Lincoln clearance and sent Harry Ayton down the wing to draw the last defender and put Toby Anderson in to seal the victory.