After last week’s forgettable first half display, Chiltern built on the second half turnaround to complete a comprehensive victory over Luton.
Playing with a much more controlled game strategy, Chiltern repeatedly went through the phases and after only five minutes following several thrusts at the Luton line, Joe Butler beat numerous defenders for the first try, converted by Andy Fluker.
Despite several injuries, Luton were often threatening in the backs and it took solid Chiltern defence to prevent a score. As the Chiltern pack stared to dominate all phases of play, it was only a matter of time before another score ensued. Good straight running by Philip Blake up to half way with good support, saw winger George Wood finish off some excellent running with a try, again converted by Andy Fluker.
Luton regrouped and following some strong running of their own stopped illegally by Chiltern, kicked a penalty just before half time; 14-3 to Chiltern at the break.
With Chiltern’s strong foundation in place, Luton were starting to tire and a long break by the Chiltern centres had winger Sam Portland stroll over in the corner for try number three out wide, although the conversion was missed. The bonus point was then secured 10 minutes later when Man of the Match, flanker Andy Zair, powered over for the first of his two tries, again converted by Andy Fluker taking the score to 26-3. Chiltern were playing with excellent control and it was no surprise when Andy Zair was driven up to and over the line again for an unconverted try.
Injuries to several players mainly from Luton took their toll and another strong attack with some good inter-passing saw No8 Jordan Scott touch down for the sixth and final try under the posts. Andy Fluker was taking a break, and it was good to see Ted Reus come off the bench for his first start of the season. The try was converted by Joe Butler who also finished Chiltern’s scoring with a neat drop goal.
A scuffle involving most players saw centre Aaron Doyle sin binned, which in turn gave Luton the space to score a good backs try which was converted for a final score of 41-10 to Amersham & Chiltern.
This was a thoroughly solid, disciplined performance and we must hope that this is carried forward to next week’s game at league leaders Thurrock.
Match report by Charles Owen-Conway