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'A' XV - Stratford RFC 2nd XV 5 - 17 |
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Written by Julian Clinton-Carter
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Monday, 10 December 2007 |
In the absence of a League fixture Old Leamingtonians RFC; who lie proudly in second position; were pleased to welcome to their Crofts ground the Stratford RFC 2nd XV. During an afternoon of constant drizzle and a blustery wind blowing down the pitch it rapidly became apparent how Stratford have progressed so far this season undefeated. The early exchanges were robust but fairly even with
Stratford dominating the lineout whilst the Old Leamingtonians dominated the scrum, the loose being an area regulated by the referee. Old Leamingtonians forewent the opportunity to take 6 points from penalties awarded within the range of their fly half in an effort to kick to the corner and work on their lineout which has proven a problem for most of the season.
Stratford on the other hand had no reserve in kicking for goal at every opportunity resulting in 3 points half an hour in to the game. From the kick off, Old Leamingtonians were able to trap
Stratford in their 22 meter area and a series of mauls and rucks resulted in returning prop Keith Pritchard crossing within 5 minutes for an unconverted try wide out.
Half time score 5- 3 to Old Leamingtonians RFC
The second half brought the favourable conditions to the benefit of
Stratford and clearly they had committed to using their excellent centre pairing to run the ball downfield, whilst the favourable conditions greatly assisted in their line kicking. Having an advantage in the lineout Stratford were able to gain a 15 minute period of control and dominance over Old Leamingtonians scoring a converted try 20 minutes into the half with another converted try following on 10 minutes later. At 5 – 17 down the Old Leamingtonians made every effort to work against the prevailing wind with a number of bullocking runs from returning Club Captain Greg Williams helped by the experience of Keith Pritchard in the loose.
Stratford defended with vigour and discipline and held Old Leamingtonians from adding to the score.
On a sad note, Old Leamingtonians No 8 Luke Turner had to leave the field of play with an injury that was diagnosed as slipped disks in his lower back, his form of this season in the League will be sorely missed.
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