Sunday saw our return fixture versus Oxford Harlequins. Banbury had put in an excellent performance away to the The Quins in December to earn a morale boosting victory. As a result, it was clear that Quins came champing at the bit for revenge! Quins had a full squad of 26 and strong support.

Banbury, meanwhile, had some players attending the Saints DPP trials which left a few key positions potentially exposed. However, pleasingly, all the Banbury team came to the game with a positive attitude which was reflected in a strong 30 minute ‘warm up’ session which had the boys primed and ready to go from the whistle. Banbury fielded one team (with subs) whilst the Quins had two full teams that they alternated midway through each half.

Banbury started the game as strongly as we have seen all season. Theo Mallock pulled on the unfamiliar No 10 Jersey and produced an excellent display shimmering with attacking intent. The forwards provided an outstanding platform to allow the backs produce the free-flowing rugby that we know they are capable of. The ball moved through hands with speed and accuracy. We had a fine start with Jacob Perkins driving over for an early first try - one which every front rower would have been proud of. This was followed by tries for Callum, Filip & Ethan. Confidence was up and it felt like we could score tries at will. We went into half time with the scoreline at 20-0.

The 2nd half would prove to be a different story – a not unfamiliar trend for Banbury this season. The Quins came out a different team and showed their true capabilities. They had Banbury pinned and cornered in their own half for the majority of the 2nd period. Their intensity was huge, and Banbury found it difficult to cope. The Quins started to dominate at scrum time which led to one-sided possession stats.

In fairness to Banbury, a number of the pack were playing in unfamiliar positions. Despite this, Banbury competed manfully, and heads did not drop. It was a learning curve for a number of players and one that will stand them in good stead for the future. Highlight for Banbury in the 2nd half was Ethan’s try. The Quins knocked on at the Banbury try line. From the resultant scrum, Banbury quickly and smoothly shifted the ball across the line to Ethan. He received the ball 10 metres in front of his own posts and ran the length of the pitch to score a stunning solo effort. It proved to be an important score for Banbury as The Quins ran in six tries in the second half. The final score was 25-25.

The game was played in great spirit and it was a pleasure hosting The Quins.

MoM – Charlie (nominated by Glen, the oxford Harlequins Head Coach)

Match report composed by B. DIn Esq, wordsmith and raconteur; the new North's Alan Bennett (but without the prosaic morosity, it could be said)

Banbury RUFC

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