A “local derby” is always a high profile event in any sphere and a league clash between Leamington and Old leamingtonians, always catches the imagination. However, this weekend’s encounter took on an even greater significance, as it was being played for the inaugural Peter Gray Memorial Cup. Pete would have been immensely proud at the occasion, seeing many of his mates in attendance, and highly delighted that his wife Di, would later present Leamington skipper, Joe Kinghorn, with the Cup!

League placings never have any meanings in these highly competitive games and although this meet was low scoring, it was certainly played at high tempo throughout.

Leamington had a couple of try scoring chances in the first period; a quick lineout throw from Ben Edwards to Rich Mullis nearly caught the visitors napping and then later, a neat step inside from fly-half, Chris John, in front of the posts, almost unlocked the OL’s defence, which had to quickly regroup to stymie the attack.

With no side managing to get on the scoresheet in the first half, Ol’s took the opportunity to kick a penalty in the opening minutes of the second period. Leamington were quick to respond and following a scrum in the visitors red zone, they won a penalty, which Jack Tripp-Smith calmly slotted over.

Leamington had Rich McKowen and Jim Reed back in the squad and these two highly effective Backs, together with Freddie Spencer, were always looking to penetrate the OL’s defence, with their strong and direct runs. The Leamington pack were also working hard to open up the visitors defence, with strong drives from Louis Dunbavin and John Brear. However, the OL’s defence was standing firm and the outlook improved for them when they once again took the lead with a well-judged penalty.

The clock was now firmly against Leamington and as the game entered the final seconds, the home pack set about a series of drives at the OL’s try line. Desperate defending looked to have saved the day for the visitors, before John Brear, took possession and made the decisive crash over the line for a spectacular and oh so important try.

Full Time: Leamington 8 – Old Leamingtonians 6

Words by Warner
Pictures by Pinfold