Pain in the rain for Colts B's

In atrocious conditions the Colts B's lost to the last kick of the game.

With the elements in their favour the Colts B's finished the half leading 17-5 against a strong Old Albanians side. OA's scored an early try before A&C got to grips with the terrible conditions. A&C tried to move the ball through the backs when circumstances allowed but handling was all but impossible. The forwards held their own against a strong OA's pack both in attack and defense. A converted try by Jake Cutter gave A&C the lead. Ben Dugdale, having a terrific game at scrum half, added 2 more tries before the half time whistle and welcome relief from the bitterly cold driving rain.

Conditions got even worse for the second half which enabled OA's to contol where the game was played. A&C found it difficult to gain decent field position battling against the elements and a determined opposition. OA's scored an unconverted try which gave them renewed belief and momentum. A&C were now on the back foot and were relying on resilient defense to see them home. Further OA's pressure was rewarded with a converted try taking the score to 17-17. The home side sensed victory and managed to play the closing minutes of the game in A&C's 22. A&C conceded a penalty in the final play of the game trying to keep OA's driving forwards at bay. OA's took the 3 points to run out 20-17 winners in a game that neither side deserved to lose.

Congratulations to both teams for their commitment and the quality of rugby they played in atrocious conditions. Special mention to man of the match Ben Dugdale but all the squad played their part in a commendable performance. As for the parents they were able to watch the game from the shelter and warmth of the excellent facilities of OA's clubhouse veranda, leaving coach Chris Oakley to brave the elements alone on the touchline.