1st Team Match Reports

Olney were host of the prestigious event of the Bucks Cup Final, and with the opposition being in the last six finals and Olney never having won this trophy, there was a lot to contend with and in addition to this, the fixture took place the day after the Olney Annual Dinner which was enjoyed by all with guest speaker, Ian Robertson.

The Olney side were grateful for the enormous crowd that turned out in support, and although the game did not start in their favour as they gave away penalties and were trailing 3-12, one penalty to four, and reduced to fourteen men after back row, Ian Bennett received a yellow card.  It was surprising that as Olney were only yards away from the line with numbers out wide, as the ball was passed out a High Wycombe player intentionally charged the ball down, and the only punishment was a penalty to the home side. 

Olney continued to apply the pressure and the backs were enjoying some running rugby, with Winger, Mike Durose making a clean break only to be tackled into touch.  Though Olney regained possession and opposite Winger, Chris Small used his strength to break through tackles in the twenty-two to score the first try of the afternoon which Centre, James Hawken converted bringing the score to a more respectable 10-12.  High Wycombe however were quick to run straight back at Olney’s defence and chipping the ball over forced Chris Small back to cover and play safe in the twenty two.  With only minutes left in the first half and the score very close, both sides looked as though they could take the lead at half time, and it was Chris Small who ran around his Winger before being tackled and passing to Second Row, Jack Sutton who was there in support before passing to Scrum Half, Dave Terry who scored Olney’s second try which James Hawken converted and gave the home side a 17-12 lead at the half time break.

After the break the visitors were quick to get back into the game and after their Winger was tackled into touch, they were then awarded a penalty after the Olney lineout.  Opting for a 5m scrum there was no doubting they would drive for the line as their big forwards had been dominating the scrums.  This they did and also converted taking them into the lead 17-19.  Only moments later High Wycombe had another try scoring opportunity from a scrum inside their attacking twenty-two, though this time Olney managed to win the ball after a tackle from Fly Half, Dave Smith and James Hawken clearing the ball to half way.  Olney made a scrum half substitution of Dave Terry and Richard James, and Prop change, Dave Rainbow and Dave Jeffires and were awarded another penalty after the High Wycombe lineout for players being off side, which james Hawken converted putting Olney back in the lead 20-19 for a matter of minutes before adding another converted penalty extending the home sides lead, 23-19.

Olney made another substitution, this time in the forwards with Ian Bennett being replaced by Mark Lay, though High Wycombe continued to dominate the scrums.  With both teams playing some frantic rugby at times, Olney appreciated the calm head on the shoulders of James Hawken as he converted a penalty 26-19, before using another penalty to gain territory and have a lineout in the attacking twenty-two, where the backs used quick hands from Richard James to Dave Smith to James Hawken to Mike Durose out wide who ran in to score Olney’s third try and with James Hawken’s conversion attempt hitting the post extended the score to 31-19.

The final few phases of play seemed to drag, though Olney were once again awarded another penalty just inside their half and James Hawken converted to the applause of the home supporters taking the final score to 34-19.  A well deserved result to the home side, three tries to one and five costly penalties to four.  This concludes Olney’s season on a massive high, in addition to sitting above both local opposition teams, Bletchley and Buckingham in the league table.  It just goes to show what strength and depth Olney have in their squad of players, as they missed some players through injury for this final.  High Wycombe however made a great afternoon of rugby testing Olney’s defence repeatedly and were nothing less than tough opposition.

Tries; C Small, D Terry, M Durose

Con; J Hawken x2

Pens; J Hawken x5

O Brackenbury, M Boddy, D Rainbow, J Sutton, L Day, C Belcher, A Kelsall, I Bennett, D Terry, D Smith, C Parnham (Capt), J Hawken, M Durose, C Small, S Skingsley

Subs; D Henrickson, M Lay, R James, J Hannah, P Leahy, Brycey, D Jeffries

Olney completed their league fixtures with a long away bus trip to Trowbridge, who despite being relegated themselves this season proved it was not going to be an easy afternoon for the visitors.  Also, with what had to be the hottest afternoon of the season, the referee announced they would have water breaks at twenty minute intervals.

Only moments into the game and Olney lost Full Back, James Padfield to an injury being replaced by Richard James and with Trowbridge on the attack early on the pressure was on Olney and a penalty was awarded to the home side which their Outside Centre converted, 3-0.  Though Olney balanced the score after Trowbridge were off side and Outside Centre, James Hawken converted a penalty 3-3.  Olney now awake, and quickly made a break up field from a strong run by Winger, Mike Durose with Back Row, Charlie Belcher there in support.  Olney were awarded  another penalty for Trowbridge not rolling away from the tackle and James Hawken converted, 3-6.  With Trowbridge slightly on the back foot, Olney’s forwards made some great yards and with the ball spun wide through the backs it was Winger, Chris Small who made his first try of the afternoon, converted by james Hawken, extending Olney’s lead 3-13. 

The home team then tested Olney’s defence and once again had the penalty advantage, but seeing space out wide they scored a try in the backs, which was not converted but brought the score’s close 8-13 just before the water break.  With Trowbridge awarded another penalty they went for the lineout and thanks to Olney’s Paddy Leahy winning the ball Olney’s Fly Half, Dave Smith quickly linked with James Hawken who passed to Chris Small who from just outside the twenty-two made his way up field passing the opposition at great pace to score under the posts, which James Hawken converted 8-20.   After a few scrums, with the referee monitoring the front rows on both sides the ball finally came out for the home side, though they gave away a penalty for holding on which James Hawken kicked for territory and Olney won their lineout and the ball was passed back inside to Hawken who stepped his man to score a try, and then convert giving Olney a comfortable lead at the break 13-27.

The second half saw a determined home side show they were not giving up without a fight, and fair play to them, they made a couple of breaks and scored two more tries, though only one of these was converted, and with another penalty and conversion by Hawken for Olney after Chris Small completed his hat trick of tries for the afternoon, the final score was 27-37 to the visitors.  A game of high tempo for a hot afternoon, where the home side showed they will be tough competition in the lower league next season, and the Olney travelling supporters would like to express their thanks to Trowbridge for being such kind hosts.

With the league complete the Olney side can’t put their boots away just yet as they prepare for the Bucks Cup final against either Milton Keynes or High Wycombe, date still to be confirmed.

Tries; Chris Small x3, James Hawken x1

Con; James Hawken x 4

Pens; James Hawken x3

Man of the match; James Hawken

Olney made the short away trip for the local derby at Bletchley and with a high number of travelling supporters.

It was the home side who took the early lead by three points from a penalty converted by the Outside Centre, though Olney’s Outside Centre James Hawken successfully converted a like for like penalty to bring the score to 3-3.  Bletchley obviously keen to make their mark on the game by kicking for territory repeatedly, had their Winger make a clean break to score the first try of the afternoon, though this conversion was missed by their Outside Centre extending their lead to 8-3.  Olney’s second row Charlie Belcher made a great tackle from the restart and with the ball being knocked on giving Olney an attacking scrum.  Bletchley’s front row, despite their size could not seem to organise themselves and after the referee gave them several chances, the penalty was awarded to Olney for the scrum being collapsed.  Unfortunately the wind was against Hawken and the kick went wide, leaving the score 8-3.

With both teams pressing hard, Bletchley maintained to use the wind and kick for territory and Olney’s forwards working well to turnover possession and the backs moved well up field when in attack with some strong tackles being made in defence, the score remained to the home sides advantage 8-3 at half time.

Olney made a Prop substitution with Phil Berry replacing Dave Rainbow at the break, and only minutes into the second half Olney gave away a penalty which fortunately for them was missed by the Fly Half, so the score remained 8-3.  Olney increasing the tempo slightly and with the forwards and backs working well together they moved up field and Second Row duo, Charlie Belcher and Luke Day both looked sure to score but neither of them quite reaching the line Olney were compensated with a penalty for Bletchley not rolling away from the tackle, which James Hawken converted bringing the score close 6-8.

With Bletchley kicking a high ball deep into the twenty two, Olney’s Winger, Chris Small picked up the loose ball and made his way up field passing four Bletchley players before pausing and then running on to score what could only be called a contender for try of the season!  This was converted by James Hawken and more importantly for the visitor’s it put Olney into the lead 8-13.  With another penalty being awarded minutes later for Bletchley’s forwards being off side, Olney punished them further with James Hawken converting extending the lead 8-16 to the applause of the Olney supporters.

The game continued to be of a higher tempo with big tackles being put in from either side, and with Bletchley repeatedly using their Inside Centre for a crash ball, Olney defended well and Prop, Ollie Brackenbury and Flanker, Gareth Cahill worked hard and made some great turnovers.  Bletchley’s Outside Centre converted a penalty bringing the score close 11-16.  Olney made a substitution in the second row, Luke Day being replaced by Mark Lay after a great game, and within minutes Lay received a yellow card and was sent to the sin bin for being off side, as the referee had previously warned both Captains about the lack of discipline in this area.  With Olney one man down Bletchley drew close to the line and Olney’s defence was put to the test, though they held firm and did not let the home side in despite their efforts in the dying minutes of the game.  The final whistle was blown and Olney were victorious at Manor Fields for the second consecutive season, this time 11-16.

Tries; Chris Small

Con; James Hawken

On what seemed to be the wettest Saturday of the season so far, Olney welcomed the visitors from Bournemouth for what could only be described as a long afternoon of rugby, for both players and supporters who braved the weather!

Olney started well, gaining territory and looked in control early on with the visiting Full Back dropping back to call the ‘mark’ deep in the twenty-two preventing an early try by the home side. However Olney did give the visitors a penalty for being off side, fortunately for Olney the Oakmedians Full Back was off target with this attempt at goal.  The visitors did move their game up a gear, and only moments later their inside centre went over for a try.  The full Back missed this kick also, giving them a 0-5 advantage.

Olney not impressed by the visitors score, benefited from a break by Scrum Half, Dave Terry who had Flanker, Tom Stanton in support who ran on to score a try for Olney, which Fly Half, James Hawken converted taking Olney into the lead 7-5.  With both teams working hard, the score remained the same at the Half time break.

The second half saw both teams close to scoring but the defence seemed to be strong with Olney’s back row and ‘Man of the Match’ Charlie Belcher with a superb work rate throughout.  Olney also benefited from Adam Kelsall and Tom Stanton in the back row, Luke Day in the second row showing Olney’s youth and fitness to be a great strength assisting the pack to win ball against the head in scrums and compete well in line-outs.

James Hawken extended Olney’s lead to 10-5 after converting a penalty which was awarded for the visitors playing the ball off their feet.  The score remained at 10-5 to Olney at full time.  A close result but a great two points for the home side.

Tries; T Stanton

Con; J Hawken

Pen; J Hawken

With all to play for in the lower half of the league, Saturday was  a must win game for the home side, and despite the cold wind the sun shone through for Olney.  With Winger, Chris Small scoring on his first touch of the ball after a break in midfield by Number Eight, Charlie Belcher and quick hands in the backs out to Small using pace to score, though this was not converted. After numerous penalties were awarded to both teams for players being repeatedly offside, it was Olney again who benefited after Fly Half, James Hawken kicked for territiory and from their lineout the ball was spun out to Centre, James Padfield who spotted a gap and scored the second try, which James Hawken converted extending Olney’s lead to 12-0.

With Olney’s Flankers, Adam Kelsall and Tom Stanton working hard and turning over possession providing the backs with ball it was pleasing to see Stanton rewarded in scoring a try himself after linking with the backs and chipping on over the line to score between the posts which Hawken again converted extending the home sides lead to 19-0.  Though just before the half time break Walcots Winger scored a break away try after Olney were caught napping in defence, which was converted taking the half time score to 19-7.

The second half saw the visitors turn their game to a more aggressive game using their big forwards where possible, though Olney were keen to extend their lead and Hawken scored a fine try after jinking through a gap in the Walcot defence to score under the posts and then converted taking the score to 26-7.  After a slight break in play with players from either side taking a strong disliking to one another, an unintentional high tackle from an Olney player lead to a Walcot player retaliating unnecessarily resulting in Olney’s Second Row, Mark Lay and Walcots second row being sin binned for their contribution.

With both teams down to fourteen men, it was Olney who appeared to take control of the game with Centre James Padfield scoring once again after kicking on a loose ball, which James Hawken converted taking the score to 36-7.  Though with Walcot giving there all to get into the scoring they were awarded a deserved try after some hard work by their forwards, and converted brining the score to 36-14.

The binned players returned to their respective teams and with not too long left on the clock, Olney appeared to have a comfortable lead on the visitors.  Therefore it was disappointing to see such a huge lapse in Olney’s defence in allowing two converted tries within minutes of each other bringing the final score to 36-26.   A good home win though the score was not a great reflection of the game.

Olney travel away to Marlow this coming Saturday which is sure to be a tough fixture, and one which players should commit themselves to training in preparation.  Appreciation as always to Olney’s touch judge Nick Deighton.

Tries; C Small, J Padfield x2, J Hawken, T Stanton

Con; J Hawken x4

Pens; J Hawken x1

Man of the match was deservedly awarded to James Hawken.

Olney travelled away to Cheltenham expecting a tough fixture.  The home side delivered and were victorious 47-6.  Olney's points coming from the boot of James Hawken from two penalties.

Olney move into a sticky position in the league table and are in need of some positive results to escape relegation.

Olney welcomed Buckingham with the two sides facing each other for second consecutive week, and it would be a tough fixture with Buckingham keen to win at Olney after being knocked out of the Bucks Cup the previous week.

Olney made a cracking start with only minutes played before the ball being moved around the backs quickly and support from backrow, Jack Sutton going over for the try, not converted but giving Olney the lead they were after.  With penalties being given all too easily by both sides, it was Buckingham who were to take advantage with the Centre converting bringing the score closer 5-3.  Olney’s Captain, Chris Parnham supported yet another break by the backs to score under the posts which was converted by James Hawken extending the home sides lead 12-3.  Though Buckingham were keeping close when another two opportunities arose to take an easy six points taking the score to 12-9.  Though when Buckingham had the chance to make the score even, being awarded a penalty inside the twenty two, unfortunately for them the referee reversed the penalty after unnecessary back chat, and with Olney alert James Hawken made the quick break up field and support from Centre, Raana Peakman scored the try which was again converted by J Hawken taking the score to 19-9 at half time.

With three tries to none at half time you would have expected a tough second half from the vistors.  Though the next quarter seemed to see Olney sit back and allow Buckingham to take the game to them, with the scrum half breaking to score a try which was converted bringing the score closer 19-16.  Unfortunately for Olney they were reduced to fourteen men after loosing Chris Parnham to the sin bin, for allegedly playing the ball off his feet.  Buckingham took advantage of the overlap with the full back scoring a good try which was again converted and took them into the lead 19-23.

With both sides now digging deep in the final phases of play, James Hawken pulled Olney closer after converting yet another penalty taking the score to 22-23.  Though this is where the score remained despite all the effort by players on both sides giving their all in the dying minutes.

Olney move to tenth place in the league after another sure win turned into a close defeat, punished by penalties and with a tough fixture away at Cheltenham this coming Saturday it gives them plenty  to work on in training.

Tries;  J Sutton, R Peakman, C Parnham

Con; J Hawken x 2

Pens; J Hawken x1

Olney made the short trip to Buckingham for the Semi-final of the Bucks Cup against a team undoubtedly on a high from their 76-0 win the previous weekend.  With a few changes in the Olney side, they were as motivated as ever and determined to provide the few travelling supporters with an entertaining afternoon of rugby.

It was Olney who were quick off the mark from the whistle being quickly awarded a penalty for a Buckingham player being off side, though this conversion was not converted.  Olney again awarded another penalty, Fly Half, James Hawken went for territory and the forwards did well with a strong driving maul being finished off by Number Eight, Ian Bennett scoring the first try of the afternoon.  This was not converted but gave Olney the early lead 0-5.  Olney continued maintaining possession and with good support play it was James Hawken who was next to score in the corner after supporting a good run by Full Back, Scott Filler.  Again the conversion was missed, though extended the lead to 0-10.  Though Buckingham not keen to remain out of the game, were back in the running after being awarded two penalties in quick succession which were converted by the Fly Half bringing the score closer 6-10.

The next phase of play showed a lack of discipline by players on both teams after a Buckingham player intentionally blocked from the scrum and the referee awarded Olney the penalty, resulting the referee to yellow card Olney’s Flanker, Charlie Belcher and Buckinghams second row.  With both teams down to fourteen men, and the game becoming more physical it was good to see Olney’s Hooker, Matthew Chandler on top form picking up a loose ball and making good yards.  With Buckingham defending and kicking a high ball, it was Olney’s Winger, Jonathan Brice who collected the bouncing ball to twist over the line for a try, extending Olney’s lead further, though another missed conversion.

Buckingham with their first real phase of attack relying on their Number Eight to do the hard yards, before being sat down by Olney’s Prop, Ollie Brackenbury.  After another moment of friction, the ten minutes was up for the carded players and both teams were back to fifteen men.  Buckingham doing their utmost to get into the game were under attack from the visitors once again and defending well kicked the ball into touch.  Though only twenty-five metres out, Olney once again ran in a great try after the ball was spun wide from the line-out through the backs with Centre, James Padfield scoring and James Hawken converting to take the score to 6-22 at half time after Buckingham missed out on two further penalties with one coming off the post.

Olney lost Charlie Belcher early into the second half to a red card after what was deemed to be a high tackle taking them to fourteen men.  Though the support play from the Olney side was superb and they punished Buckingham further with James Padfield scoring his second try of the afternoon after stepping the Full Back, being converted by James Hawken.  Olney replaced second row, Sean Heatley after a strong performance with Ben Jones. 

The second half continued with Olney maintaining the majority of the possession, though Buckingham never gave up.  They continued to niggle at the Olney defence where possible, though there was no way through, with some great tackles being made by Olney’s back, row Adam Kelsall and Jack Sutton.  The Buckingham backs all looking eager to run, and showing frustration towards the end, especially as Olney lost Centre, Raana Peakman to a yellow card for being offside only metres out in front of the posts and still Olney’s defence held firm and held off the home side from scoring even against thirteen men.

A very physical game of rugby with numerous penalties conceded from both teams, with plenty to reflect upon and improve on for a re-match this Saturday at Olney where the two sides will meet again for their League Fixture kicking off at 2pm on Doffs Field.

Tries;  I Bennett, J Hawken, J Brice, J Padfield x2,

Con; J Hawken x2

Olney travelled to Reading Abbey after a convincing 50-0 win the previous week, though with a few changes in the starting lineup.  Full of confidence and aiming for a win at Reading Abbey after loosing there last season, it was no surprise to see Olney firing on all cylinders in the opening minutes.  With Full Back, Raana Peakman, winger, Scott Filler and Centre, James Hawken scoring a try a piece with Hawken converting all three it was pleasing for the Olney camp to see them with a comfortable lead 21-3 in the first quarter.

Reading Abbey however managed to break through the Olney defence before the half time break to score a try, though this was not converted leaving the score 21-8 advantage to Olney.

The second half however saw a change to the Olney backline as they lost Fly Half, Dave Smith due to injury, with James Padfield coming on at Outside Centre and James Hawken moving to Fly Half, with further substitutions made in the front row with Dave Rainbow being replaced by Phil Berry.

Reading Abbey showing great match fitness, managed to score a unconverted try, two penalties and a drop goal in the final quarter taking the final score to 22-21 to the home side.  A disappointing result for Olney after such a strong start. 

Olney will now meet Buckingham for two consecutive weeks, firstly for the next round of the Bucks Cup at Buckingham, followed by a home league fixture. 

Tries; R Peakman, S Filler, J Hawken

Con; J Hawken x3

Olney welcomed Wooton Bassett and their few travelling supporters for an afternoon of rugby, with the weather providing the perfect conditions for rugby.  A pleasant change after the past months weather.

It was the home side who were first to score after Winger, Scott Filler picked up a loose ball and passing to Full Back, Raana Peakman who breezed past four players to score, with Centre, James Hawken converting.  Olney’s Number Eight, Ian Bennett won the ball from a ruck and charged up field with players in support only to cross before the try line conceding a penalty.  Wooton Bassett opted for the lineout and were then penalised themselves for holding on and Olney’s James Hawken took another three points for the conversion.  Olney however conceded another penalty, and with Wooton Bassett still not really having any attacking play they took a quick tap, though a strong tackle from Flanker, Adam Kelsall ensured the ball was lost and going forward Olney were awarded the scrum.  From the scrum Fly Half, Dave Smith popped the ball to James Hawken who evaded three weak tackles to score under the posts giving him another conversion taking the score to 17-0.  Olney were then awarded a penalty five metres from the try line, and chose to take the scrum, which Wooton Bassett defended well winning ball and clearing, only to give away a penalty up field for not releasing the ball.  Were James Hawken converted once again extending Olney’s lead.

Olney’s backs settling well into their attacking game, once again ran at Wooton Bassett breaking through their defence repeatedly with Dave Smith and James Hawken linking well and the ball being spun out wide to Winger, Mike Durose who ran on to score out wide, though the conversion was not made it still gave Olney a comfortable half time score of 25-0.

It was a quiet start to the second half, though the visitor’s trying to get into the game found Olney’s defence solid and some big tackles from second row, Jack Sutton and Flankers Adam Kelsall and  Charlie Belcher they were reminded it was to be Olney’s afternoon.  With Olney being awarded another penalty and James Hawken converting from forty metres looking relaxed, Wooton Bassett did not drop their heads and continued to put in some hard graft on the field, though Olney continuously putting on the pressure with Ian Bennett going over for a try, which again was converted by James Hawken.

Olney made a couple of substitutions with Prop, Dave Rainbow being replaced by Phil Berry and Adam Kelsall being replaced by Steve Fowler in the back row.  The next few minutes of the game consisted of yet more penalties with both teams going for territory with the lineout, though nothing of great excitement coming until Olney’s Mike Durose kicked up field and strong running from both sides competing for the ball, with Wooton Bassett’s player just covering to prevent another Olney try. 

Olney still not content with their 35-0 lead, and the backs having a good afternoon of running rugby, it was James Hannah who scored in the corner after coming onto the field to replace Ian Bennett in the forwards.  The conversion was not made.  Wooton Bassett however still eager to get some points on the board did well to win an Olney defending scrum, though Olney’s solid defence held up the player preventing a try.  With the clock running down the visitors threw everything they could into the game and being awarded a penalty only yards away from the try line, they went down the blind side only to knock on and return the possession to Olney.  From the scrum Jack Sutton made great yards after a pick and go, with Dave Smith in support and Olney then looking to be away once again were punished for a forward pass.  With light fading fast it was Scrum Half, Richard James who chipped forward and beat the visitors to the ball to score a try which was not converted taking Olney to 45-0.  Though still not content with what could of been a cricket score, as Wooton Bassett had one last grasp before the final whistle Olney’s defence made a turnover and Mike Durose ran the length of the pitch to score, and although it was not converted it left Olney’s final score at 50-0. 

Olney travel away to Reading Abbey this Saturday before playing Buckingham for two consecutive weeks, 6^th Feb Bucks Cup at Buckingham and 13^th Feb League Fixture at home.

Tries; R Peakman, J, Hawken, J Hannah, R James, M Durose x2, I Bennett,

Con; J Hawken x3

Pens; J Hawken x3

Olney made the long journey away to Swanage for the second time this season to fulfil their league fixture, after the previous fixture was called off due to severe weather conditions, although a little late for the Olney team having already made the long trip south.

With the fixture taking place on what should have been a free weekend there were a few changes to the side, though Olney’s depth of squad players enabled this to make minimal effect on the overall game plan.  It was Olney that took the early lead in the game from a try scored by Full Back, Raana Peakman which was converted by Outside Centre, James Hawken.

The mid section of the game was rather lifeless from both sides, though Olney’s backs stood out when in possession running some great phases of play.  Swanage’s forwards dominated lineout’s, though Olney’s defence held off any attacking moves from their backs.

Three further tries for Olney came from Flanker, Gareth Cahill who took a quick ball when supporting Winger, Scott Filler after he took the ball from Raana Peakman from a quick break.  Scott Filler scored himself from another break from the Olney backs, after chipping the ball off the ground into his hands after it was released in the tackle by James Hawken.  Then after some strong  interlinking play from forwards and backs, the ball was moved out wide to Winger, James Padfield who scored in the corner.  All tries were converted by James Hawken taking the score to 25-28 with only minutes to play.

Fortunately for the home side they were awarded a penalty with only seconds to play, so with no time for a lineout they chose to kick at goal and were successful taking the final play of the game to draw the score 28-28.  A fair result to both teams, on a cold afternoon of rugby.

Olney face High Wycombe at home on Saturday, weather conditions permitting with the kick off at 2pm.

Tries;  R Peakman, G Cahill, S Filler, J Padfield

Cons; J Hawken x4

It was the visiting side that were keen to put on the early pressure, with Olney’s back row Gareth Cahill covering well to prevent an early try.  Though it was not long before Olney were on the attack and in their first real attacking phase a break from Full Back, Raana Peakman passing to Scrum Half, Richard James to score the first try of the afternoon.  This was converted by Outside Centre, James Hawken who added another three points shortly after by converting a penalty awarded for a Salisbury player not rolling away, taking Olney to an early lead of 10-0.

Olney were awarded another penalty, this time opting for the lineout.  From here Olney’s backs saw an opportunity not to be missed, with a huge gap out wide in the Salisbury defence it was Winger, Mike Durose who went over for the try.  Not converted, but extending Olney’s lead to 15-0.  Salisbury did however get a score on the board after the Full Back converted a penalty from the twenty-two.  Though, minutes later failed to convert another penalty, missing out on three points.

With Salisbury kicking in defence to clear Olney’s attacking play, the ball was caught by Inside Centre, Chris Parnham before being kicked back up field for territory by Fly Half, Dave Smith.  From the Salisbury lineout the Olney forwards challenged well and took possession and it was James Hawken who sliced through a gap in the Salisbury back line to score his first try of the afternoon which he duly converted taking the score to 22-3.  Olney’s backs beginning to look increasingly comfortable were quickly back on the attacking foot and it was Raana Peakmans break supported by Mike Durose who then ran cross field through the Salisbury defence to score in the opposite corner, converted by James Hawken making it 29-3.  Then if you blinked you would of missed them, but Olney’s backs were on the attack once more with James Hawken scoring his second try, though failed to convert.  The score now at 34-3, a comfortable lead for the home side at half time.

The second half saw Olney loose Number Eight, Ian Bennett to a Yellow card for an infringement, though this did not appear to affect the flow of the game for Olney as James Hawken jinked his way through Salisbury’s backs to score another try, which he converted along with a penalty converted just moments previously extending Olney’s lead to 44-3.

Olney made a few changes with Prop, Dave Rainbow being replaced by Phil Berry, Back Row, Ben Jones replaced by Sean Wright and Mike Durose replaced by James Hannah on the Wing.  Changes in the home side again did not change the flow of the game, and with missed tackles from Salisbury gifting Winger, James Padfield the opportunity to run in two tries in quick succession, with one being converted by James Hawken extending Olney’s score further still.  With the game coming to an end Salisbury dug deep though Olney were onloy too pleased to continue punishing them when firstly awarded a penalty in front of the posts, and opting for the scrum it was quick thinking in the backs with the ball being passed from Richard James to Dave Smith and back inside to James Hawken to go straight under the posts to score his fourth try of the afternoon and then converting.  Then not to drop their game before the final whistle, and with Salisbury still giving their all, it was Raana Peakman who intercepted a Salisbury pass in the twenty-two and then ran the length of the pitch to score, again converted by James Hawken taking the score to 68-3 and this is how it remained at the final whistle.  Truly an enjoyable afternoon of rugby for the home side supporters, going to show what our team are capable of in this league.    Well done, a pleasure to watch!

Olney now make the very long trek to Swanage and Wareham on Saturday 19^th December before breaking for Christmas. 

Tries;  R.James, M. Durose x2, J.Padfield x2, R.Peakman, J.Hawken x4

Cons; J.Hawken x6

Pens; J.Hawken x2

 Olney had an early meet of nine o'clock to make a long bus trip away, on a very wet Saturday morning to the not so sunny seaside town of Bournemouth to play Oakmedians, who are in the top quarter of the league table.  Expecting a tough afternoon of rugby, Olney showed that they could hold there own with a close game of rugby throughout.

The forwards scrummaged well on a very wet and muddy pitch, with the backs making the most of any possession and tackling well in defence.  Overall a general team effort made by Olney, which was continued on the enjoyable bus journey home!

Olney now have two home fixtures on the bounce, with Wallingford this Saturday kicking off at 2.30pm, followed by Salisbury on the 12th December.  It is most important that all players make every effort to train, to continue to improve on the teams performance. 

Olney are regularly putting out four/five teams on a Saturday and cater for all ages/abilities with new players are always welcome, with Senior training on Tuesday and Thursday evenings see the website www.olneyrfc.co.uk for further details.

 Tries; ....

Pens:  James Hawken x2

Olney still without a home win on their new pitch they were all the more determined, and with the convincing away win the previous week had the added confidence in their combined team effort.  Although it was the visitors who started the game with some flare and being awarded a couple of penalties in quick succession failed to take advantage of the territory as Olney won both scrums and llineouts against the head giving themselves the chance to play their set pieces, which appeared to work well though allowing a couple of early tries going begging after a couple of missed opportunities.

Credit should be made to the home side as they controlled the game well despite a few frantic moments, though managing to rectify any errors quickly with the forwards having a strong game allowing the backs to run some great running rugby which was a pleasure to watch.  The first half saw the home side take a comfortable lead of 12-0 with tries from Outside Centre, James Padfield who was first to get the points on the board with a try in the corner after a great break from Full Back, James Hawken.  The second try came from Prop, George Stanton who received a pop inside from James Padfield, which was converted by James Hawken.

The second half saw very much of the same, though the visitors did allow their ill-discipline to disrupt their game with a couple of off the ball incidents.  Olney however continued to run in a couple more tries, one from a fine individual performance from James Hawken after beating a couple of defenders and then to dummy the full back to score under the posts, whoch he then converted.  Followed quickly from an Olney scrum a quick ball through the backs from Dave Smith to Captain, Chris Parnham who had a strong run to score which was once again converted by James Hawken, who added further points from two converted penalties taking the final score to 32-0.  Reading Abbey had two missed penalties, and despite some strong runs by their backs which Olney defended well with the Back row making some great tackles didn’t really look in danger of taking over what was Olney’s afternoon.  A great team win on the new first XV pitch. 

The game was sponsored by the Mini/Junior Section and many first XV players returned the favour by assisting with the coaching on Sunday morning, expanding on interclub relations.

Olney will travel to Buckingham on Saturday for their next league fixture.  New players are always welcome, see www.olneyrfc.co.uk for further details.

Tries; James Padfield, George Stanton, James Hawken, Chris Parnham (Captain)

Con; James Hawken x3

Pens; James Hawken x2

It was the home side that started the game looking determined and after their first home win of the season, and with a try being scored by Flanker ‘Taffy’ in the opening phases of play from a quick change of direction by Fly Half, James Hawken it was looking promising for the home supporters.  The try was not converted but gave Olney the early lead never the less.  The score was increased shortly after from a penalty converted by James Hawken, after Trowbridge were penalised for playing off side after a great charge up field by Flanker, Charlie Belcher.  This increased Olney’s lead to 8-0 and it remained for a short period with both teams giving away needless penalties, of which Trowbridge number Eight had an attempt at goal but failed to convert. 

Trowbridge did however begin to regroup after their long trip, and what can only be described as a frantic twenty minutes from the home side which allowed the visitors to get back into the game and take a strong lead.  With tries being scored from their Inside Centre from a strong run off the lineout, though not converted, their pack took advantage of a penalty awarded only metres out and drove over for another try, which was converted by their Number Eight taking them into the lead 8-12.  The Trowbridge Full Back ran a great line through a gap to score, which was not converted, and just before the half time whistle the Number Eight converted a penalty to take Trowbridge into the lead 8-20.

After the half time break where I’m sure team talks were very different indeed, both teams came back and with Olney looking to improve on their game it was pleasing to see the backs finally have some ball and with Winger, Chris Small opening up his stride from over half way to run through his opposition to score a great try, though not converted it gave the home side some encouragement of what can be done.  Both teams continued to give away penalties which continued to disrupt the overall game, though Olney’s Scrum Half, Richard James took advantage of a quick tap penalty metres from the try line and darted over to score a try.  This was not converted but brought Olney closer 13-20.

Olney’s Captain, Chris Parnham was the next to score a try from the Olney’s backs strong support play, and with this converted by James Hawken it took Olney into the lead 25-20.  With so many penalties and the clock being stopped for several minor injuries, the home supporters knew there were still minutes to play.  Olney made a couple of changes in their pack with Number Eight, Dan Ridge being replaced after a strong performance by Charlie Tompkin and Second Row, Sean Heatley replaced by Steve Harrison.  Trowbridge giving everything they had were again awarded a penalty by the Olney Forwards only metres out and with the travelling forwards still giving their all they were rewarded with a try.  This was not converted but took the score to 25-25 in the final minutes of play.  Olney’s James Hawken was given one last chance of a penalty at goal, though on such a windy afternoon it was no surprise it was not converted leaving the final score a draw 25-25.  A well recovered game by Olney, though with plenty to reflect upon to improve the season’s performance. 

Tries; Taffy, C Small, R James, C Parnham (captain)

Con; J Hawken x 1

Olney made the away trip to High Wycombe in positive form after a close draw the previous week.  After only a few minutes it was the away side that were first to get on the score board from a penalty off the boot of Fly Half, James Hawken which was awarded after Wycombe player failed to roll away from the tackled Olney player.  Both sides very keen to make their early mark on the game gave away a few penalties in quick succession, which finally got the score to a penalty each after the High Wycombe, Scrum Half converted his attempt at goal.

The game was looking well balanced and with Wycombe repeatedly trying to run a crash ball, it was easy to read and Olney’s backs made some great tackles, and with a whisper of a chance they took off up field and looked close to score on many occasions with Winger, Chris Small using his pace well to break through several Wycombe players.  Unfortunately Olney Lost an influential player,  Second Row, Sean Heatley to a yellow card for what was deemed as killing the ball, giving the home side another penalty and edging into the lead 6-3.  Olney’s Centres Chris Parnham and James Padfield made some strong tackles as Wycombe ran straight and hard, though as ever Olney’s defence was well organised and with Wycombe looking like they had a chance of scoring a try shortly before half time with the one man overlap, they gave away a penalty for crossing.  Sean Heatley came back on just before the whistle was blown for half time, where the score remained with the home side having a 6-3 advantage, but the game still looking to be anyone’s.

Olney had the sun behind them in the second half and appeared to have more spark about them, with Wycombe using their big forwards to try and dominate the scrum and lineout, though with Hooker, Matthew Bodily winning ball against the head and although Wycombe were driving hard Olney’s number Eight, Dan Ridge made some great breaks from the back of the scrum and gained yards when supported by his fellow forwards.  This gave Olney some quick ball to the backs and saw James Padfield make some fine individual runs, once again with players in support Olney now looking slightly more motivated of the two sides.   James Hawken converted his second penalty taking the score to 6-6, and the referee had a quiet word with the Wycombe Captain about players being off side. 

Only minutes later James Hawken stepped inside his opposite man to score a fine try, and convert it taking Olney finally into the lead 13-6.  Wycombe spilling the ball in the centre with their new replacement lost possession on numerous occasions and were punished further by losing a player to a yellow card after playing the ball on the ground.  Olney took advantage of this one man overlap and spinning the ball wide looked sure to score again, though it was not to be and the final score remained at 13-6 to Olney.  A great result for Olney, after a motivated team performance, enjoyed by the travelling supporters which were appreciated by the players.

Dan Ridge was awarded man of the match by the High Wycombe team.

Tries; James Hawken

Con; James Hawken

Pens; James Hawken x2

Olney welcomed vistors Swanage & Wareham after their long trip north, though it was the away team which showed early pressure in the game.  After a few frantic error’s from both sides it was Olney who opened up the scoring after winning ball and quick hands through the backs out to Winger, Chris Small who broke through a couple of tackles to score in the corner.  This was not converted, but gave the home side the lead they needed after previous defeats.  The visitors continued to keep on the attacking pressure, though Olney defended well, with Hooker, Matthew Chandler and Number Eight, Jack Sutton making strong tackles.  However the visitors were awarded a penalty after an Olney player was left isolated and penalised for holding on.  This was converted by the Scrum half keeping the score close 5-3.  Though, Olney were able to stretch their lead slightly after a penalty was converted by Fly Half, James Hawken after the visitors were penalised after coming in from the side at a ruck to take the score to 8-3. 

The game continued with the visitors pack continuing to play simple, yet a strong repeated pattern of rugby which pressed Olney repeatedly.  Penalties were awarded to both sides for players holding on after becoming isolated and their teams not rucking them out quickly enough, with the visitors Scrum Half converting one of two attempts taking the score to 8-6 at half time with the game still looking like both teams had everything to play for.

The game continued in the second half with the visitors having a higher percentage of possession, but Olney defending well and when in attack looking like they were keen to score.  Though with the Olney backs becoming committed to rucks it left them little option but to recycle the ball in the forwards and that was where the visitors were stronger and quite often regained possession once again.

Olney made a substitution of Prop, Phil Berry for Stephen Howkins and both Jack Sutton and Dan Ridge were replaced by Mark Lay at different times for ‘legal’ blood injuries.  The score increased on both sides with Olney’s James Hawken converting two penalties and scoring a try himself, though not completing with the conversion taking Olney to 16 points.  However the visitors most definitely a determined unit replied with converting two more penalties and scoring a try, which was also converted taking them also to 16 points.  With the visitors losing a Prop to the sin bin after killing the ball, Olney were still unable to take advantage and score more points in front of a good home crowd.

Some strong rucking by Olney’s Back Row, Dan Ridge and Second Row, Sean Heatley, with strong runs from Jack Sutton was not enough from the Olney pack to maintain possession.  The visitors showed what a solid pack can achieve, if a little off side at times.  Though Olney can carry the positive from a 16-16 draw into next weeks away fixture at High Wycombe, and welcome all travelling supporters.

Tries; C Small, J Hawken

Con; J Hawken missed x2

Pens; J Hawken x2