HOOKER Reece Jones scored two tries as Old Leamingtonians’ forward pressure proved decisive to defeat neighbours Harbury 30-5 in Midlands Three West (South).
With the wind playing a key role, it was a largely forwards dominated contest and OLs powered to six unconverted tries.
The visitors had control for most of the match and took the lead when OLs’ pressure forced Harbury back and prop Craig Ellis touched down.
The game followed the same pattern with Harbury being kept under constant pressure by the OL’s forwards and when opportunities for Harbury presented a strong OL’s defence repeatedly thwarted the home side’s efforts.
With OL’s forwards dominating, more pressure allowed hooker Jones to break from a driving maul and touch down for a second try.
With half-time approaching, Harbury enjoyed a period of pressure. Rob Andrews joined the line just on the 10 metres line and an excellent kick to the far side of the pitch was well gathered by Gaz Evans to touch down and leave his team trailing 10-5 at the break.
The second half followed the same pattern but with OL’s now having the advantage of the gusty wind the game was played mainly in the Harbury half of the field
It was no surprise when further forward driven tries followed. When a Harbury forward was sin binned, OL’s took full advantage and tries from Tom Heslop and captain Rob Smith followed in quick succession. Neither was converted.
Play continued with Harbury competing well but having little opportunity to break down the OL’s defence and further pressure from the visitors saw the ball thrown out into the three-quarters for centre Tom Eales to cross for try number five.
With only a few minutes remaining, Jones crossed for his second try of the match after further good driving play from the OL’s forwards.
OL’s next game (to be confirmed) is a cup tie away to Dunstablians. Kick off 2.15pm.
