29/10 Match Report 2ndXV v Bristol University
October 29, 2008
Tuesday 28th October 2008
Newbury’s 2nd XV entertained a very accomplished, Bristol University team on Tuesday night.
Contrary to recent news of the demise of the club’s 2nd XV this fixture enabled the club to watch & give game time to players on the fringe of the 1st XV squad as well as young players whose development is so important to the club’s future plans.
On a very cold & wintry evening both sides showed a willingness to play entertaining rugby. It was Newbury that started the sharper with Marc Sweeney slicing through the University mid field. He found support from Alistair Widdop who made good ground before offloading to Gareth Williams to score by the posts. Charlie Perry added the conversion to give Newbury an early 7-0 lead. Newbury added to this score when Liam Perkins crashed over from close range. Bristol then forced their way into the game & enjoyed long passages of play but good defence by Newbury prevented them crossing for any points. Newbury finished the half well & Perkins found himself on the score sheet again when a University clearance kick was charged down & fell kindly for him. Half time 17-0 to Newbury.
The second half saw Newbury play into the icy wind that had been to their advantage in the first period. The University started well & soon got back into game with a well worked try out wide. They nearly scored straight from the kick off but scrambled defence by Newbury stopped the try. Chris Ridgers was given some space in mid field & showed clean pair of heels to score a fine try. With both side making changes some of the rhythm was lost from the game but not before the students scored another try to narrow the gap. Greg Price did make a storming run up field but the move broke down. Alex Swann also made a good break but was tackled by the University full back.
Final score Newbury 2nd XV 22 Bristol University 10.
This was an ideal opportunity for Newbury to check on the progress of many players against a side that gave them a tough test. The players were able to show the skills that they possess.
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