2nd XV - Spartans 2nd XV: 23-6

Written by Aaron Dudley

Wednesday, 02 April 2008

OL’s fielded a powerful side against the Midlands 4 League Leaders second string. This choice was justified as Spartans kicked two penalties in windy conditions and took an early 6 – 0 lead. Undeterred by this, Old Leamingtonians came back playing direct intelligent rugby. Jamie Brown and Rob Marr continually found space around the sides, and the hard running of Si Hemming ensured the Spartan centres had a busy afternoon. The attitude and demeanour of this OL’s first half performance side can best be encapsulated by the period of pressure withstood mid way through the period. Spartans camped out on the 5m line after an unfortunate knock on following a restart, but they were kept out and driven back. They knew how hard earned their points were, just as OL’s knew that their time would come. OL’s worked hard and were eventually rewarded by a well worked try. Rob Marr crossed over in the corner after a delightful interchange between Hall, Dudley and Brown. The kick was not to be, but the signs were ominous and it was a confident OL’s that finished the half. Old Leamingtonians kept their momentum and scored 18 unanswered points. A skilled chip and chase from Paul Towey was finished by veteran Andy Hall. Brown converted well, in spite of the conditions. Richard ‘Dicky’ Linfield crossed shortly after, doing exactly what a winger should do; beating his man on the outside, pinning his ears back and heading for the corner flag. Jamie Brown added another penalty and the rout was complete. Kudos should go to the OL’s pack, called upon to operate with an inexperienced back row, well led by the garrolous Jon Carnall from his now permenant place in the front row. Another well worked victory for a second team on song.

 

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