The game started off reasonable with the ball being chased down from the kick off and good pressure applied from the defensive line in the backs, not allowing Oundle any room, it was only time however when the Oundle centre pairing found a gap and produced an overlap to run in under the posts for a first score 0-7. The Oundle backs were well drilled and despite some determined tackles from both forwards and backs, the opposition continued to make space.

Tom Dixon and Jack Berry tackled well throughout the half and the back row of Bonham, Thomas and Rushton also made their presence felt. Matt Ross playing at fullback again was also having a good game , running the ball back at every occasion and was always well supported by his wings Andy Dixon and Ewan Jones. Despite all the defensive effort at the break Oundle led 33-0.

Half time saw changes for Bourne with Paul Mabey coming on in the 2nd row, Lance Charity at scrum half and Josh Jordan Bonney on the wing. The experienced Charity was putting pressure on the Oundle scrum half and the added weight of Mamby seemed to energise the pack. Bourne were competing against the Oundle ball and holding their own comfortably. Oundle were still superior though at pouncing on any mistake Bourne made and their team work and experience showed as they ran in a number of tries bring the score up to 57-0.

Bourne made further changes then with Xanti Xipu coming on at hooker and Thornburn in the back row with Jordan Payne moving into the backs. There was 15 minutes left and Bourne’s heads were still not down. Payne made a great break through the centre and passed to Jones who was unlucky not to score in the corner. For once Oundle were under pressure kicking the ball clear on a number of occasions, only to be fielded by Rossi who made good ground each time. There was support from the forwards with good drives from Neil Wood, Bonham and Thornburn which kept the ball moving forward.

Scrum half Charity was bossing the game and kept play flowing. Camped on the 5m line Bourne did have a bit of white line fever and really should have scored, but will learn from their experience. Oundle managed to hold out and not concede a try, but knew they had been in a game with a team performance led by captain Ant Cooke that they should be proud of.

Man of the match Jordan Payne – For his play in both the front row and Centre.

Coaches Quote – A great team effort, never giving up, the level Oundle played at is where we want to be next season.

Famous Rugby Quote - Failure is the road to success