The newly formed OLs 3 XV kicked off their campaign this weekend away to a Barker Butts 3s with a sizeable bench. The close weather provided a foreshadowing of the match to follow.

The first ten minutes were a close contest as both sides blew away the cobwebs from summer break. Despite strong running from Adam Souster and Pat Adcock, OLs conceded following a period of pressure to go 7-0 down.

Barker’s 10 was an accomplished kicker, but strong catching from Harry Gardner at full-back, making his OLs debut, allowed OLs to counter. On receipt of another kick, Jordan Gardner took the concept of a quick throw-in to a new level as he stopped the ball going out by volleying the ball laterally for a supporting B&B player to take.

A physically game started to take its toll as substitutes were made by both sides. Tony Reeve coming on at 6 had an immediate impact with strong carries through Barker’s pack. Laurence May showed that his recent switch from centre to flanker was an inspired move, as he regularly stole ball in lineouts. Laurence then ran in the 3’s maiden try, closing the gap to 7-5 before the break.

Inspired by captain Alex French, the OLs could smell victory in the second half. Following slick rucking from the pack and consistent gains from the backs, OLs set up camp on Barker’s try line and looked set to score. However, the situation quickly turned when an uncharacteristic wayward pass from Carl Berisford was intercepted by their winger who broke through into clear air. The chase from Nick Tyler initially looked futile until he started closing the gap around the halfway line, closing and closing, eventually making the tackle under the posts and drawing then penalty for holding on, in what was a man of the match effort.

Buoyed, OLs picked up the intensity. Strong individual running abounded though the final pass required to get points on the board proved elusive. Laurence May ran form the halfway line, repelling tackles left and right to make it two for the day and put the OLs 10-7 up with 3 minutes to play. Assured defending during the last phases brought the big W home for first win of the season.

Great team atmosphere in the changing room afterward, if not slightly dampened by the 1s result. Despite the game being close and hard fought, the attitude was excellent from both sides in what was a very enjoyable afternoon for all involved. MoM / DoD boat race comfortably won in the bar afterwards as OLs 3 sit top of Warwickshire League 3!

Next match 10th September at home to Rugby St Andrew Dev team.