Positional changes in the backs achieved the desired results in this first meeting between the two sides since 1995, with better cohesion between them and with a thundering pack who matched their bigger opponents in the loose and overpowered them in the set scrums.

Fly half Chris Jones and full back Jonathan Davies were particularly outstanding, combining well in attack and interchanging middle-back positions to successfully confuse Sandal's defence.

However, Crocs made a stuttering start, missing two straightforward penalties before finally converting one to take the lead, then the game began an end to end period with a great Chris Jones tackle thwarting the visitors then prop Mark Palmer being held just short as the home side struck back.

Crocs eventually extended their lead when recycled ball reached centre Ryan Hammond who stretched over to score, but there was no further scoring form either side up to the break.

Ian Greenhough replaced the injured Manny Riaz in the back row at the restart and the fast pace was resumed with captain Richard Wheale setting up a good chance for Crocs only for a rushed tap penalty to be knocked forward.

Sandal had the advantage of the wind in the second period but struggled to make it pay, though they did get on the scoreboard with a penalty.

Crocs were unlucly when the visiting flanker dived through a scrum to prevent Crocs touching down and the unsighted referee failed to award the deserved penalty try, but Davies took the three points to put his side ahead 11-3.

The lead was extended 10 minutes from time when Jones took two tacklers with him and slipped a great pass to the supporting wing James Wainwright who went over under the posts, Davies converting.

Both sides could have added to their total in the closing minutes and though Sandal grabbed the last score when their winger went over with the home defence stretched, it was a mere consolation.