Leamington had a testing afternoon, away at Evesham, with the hosts three converted tries up, on 25 minutes of play and eventually going on to win by 35 points to 14.

Playing conditions, on the “Evesham quagmire”, were appalling and more suited to the home side’s lumbering Pack, and any local “swineherd”! Certainly different from Leamington’s “Moorefields” home, where investment in time and money over recent years have produced superb playing surfaces.

The first half, which set the scene for the match, was particularly difficult for the Leamington squad, who were lacking the usual cohesion in their play, that has seen them rise steadily up the competitive, Counties 1 Midland West (South), league this season. However, there were some more, stand out, driving runs from Louis Dunbavin and John Brear, together with Jamie Loffman, who had been brought into the Leamington lineup.

The deficit could have been worse, had it not been for two, try saving tackles from Jack Tripp-Smith, inches from his home line.

Half Time; 21 – 0

Leamington fell further behind following another converted score, before showing their true colours with the try of the match. Wing forward, Rich Mullis, began the move with a break, at pace, on the nearside wing and in the Evesham half. The ball was moved across the park and Fly Half, Chris John, delivered a superbly timed pass into the grateful hands of Gareth Shuttleworth, who cut a dash clean through the home defence. Jack Tripp-Smith added the conversion.

The home side hit back with another converted try, before Leamington concluded the game with another fine score. The Pack secured possession at a scrum on or around the halfway line and forced their way quickly towards the Evesham try line. Prop, Louis Dunbavin, was in control of the ball and punched a hole through the home side for a fine individual score. Chris John added the extras.

Full Time: 35 - 14

Words by Warner
Pictures by Pinfold