Bedworth - 2nd XV: 14 - 10

Written by Nick Bennett

Monday, 22 October 2007

Old Leamingtonians extras were drawn against Bedworth II in the 2nd team cup competition and with Bedworth first XV currently playing a league above, OLs were the underdogs going into this clash. This was a very different game for Leams compared to previous matches against, with all due respect, lower quality teams.  From the start, the pre-match talk about a rough game was confirmed and OL’s took some time getting used to it. After 10-15 minutes, they realised they were in a game and took it to the opposition from the front. Strong running from centre Jamie Brown almost created an opening, but for some strong tackling. Bedworth then broke and, courtesy of some soft defence from the visitors, crossed over for the first try of the game. Leamingtonians could have felt a bit hard done by when a couple of dangerous tackles were missed by the referee, bit one penalised infringement, a penalty attempt was missed by Brown, keeping the score at 7-0. OLs then began to pressurise the home team but it was Bedworth who ended the first half with a further score after a break away try. Half time: Bedworth 14-0 Old Leamingtonians Leams started the 2nd half determined to prove to the opposition that they were in a competition. This resilient start disrupted the Bedworth camp and their frustration was clear, resulting in a total of 3 sin bins throughout the second half. Fly half Andy Hall got the first points of the day for the visitors, slotting a neat drop goal after continuous pressure in the 22. This seemed to stir Leams on and they started to attack from all angles, piling on the pressure all over the park. A try was the least OL’s deserved and they got just that, courtesy of Neil Boag. Clean lineout ball started a driving maul, which resulted in Boag crossing the line after running over 2-3 defenders. Andy Hall added the extras. They were extremely unlucky not to get another score and, despite prolonged pressure, the game ended in the first defeat of the season for the 2nd team. A lot can be taken from this game though, with Leams proving they can more stand up to stern opposition. Full time: Bedworth 14-10 Old Leamingtonians Man of the match was awarded to Neil Boag for some strong runs and solid play in the set piece, although all 18 players involved can hold their heads high after an excellent performance in the face of severe provocation. Next week is Nuneaton Old Eds II at home. Another strong team who we have struggled against in previous seasons. With their first team struggling in Midlands 3 SW hopefully this is a chance to show what the OLs 2nd Xv can really produce if they can replicate the passion of Sunday for a full 80 minutes.

 

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