Today we welcomed league leaders Old Northamptonians who have usually been one of the stronger clubs in the area so a tough test for the Olney boys who came to this fixture on the back of two significant victories. After a bit of rain in the previous few days the pitch was in fine condition and the large home crowd looked forward to a good contest.

Olney kicked off with the wind and sun in their favour and from the outset it was apparent both sides were looking to play a fast open game. 10 minutes in after a few fumbles, ON’s capitalised and some good handling ended with a score wide on the right, well converted for a 7-0 lead. Lloyd Sweeney replaced Charlie Hicks on the left wing. Olney then had a good spell in the ON’s 22 but when a lineout was lost Olney were deemed to be pulling down the maul and Flanker Cobie Chapman received a yellow card. More slick hands allowed ON’s left winger room to sprint forward and a deft kick and catch gave them their second try. Olney did have chances but to no avail and remained scoreless. Ben Duke looked to be on from an interception but was called back for a previous infringement. From this penalty an inside pass put ON’s over the line again and took the half time score to 19-0 in favour of the away side.

More of the same followed after the break with Olney on the back foot for lengthy spells and ON’s using their powerful pack to gain ground and produce quick ball for the backs. One of these attacks produced the next try, followed shortly after by another for the winger from a quick penalty. The infringements were happening more often under the pressure and another quick tap saw the ON’s forwards barge over to extend the lead further. When Olney did next attack the ON’s line, Duke was on the end of the final pass to dot down in the corner, taking the score to 5-38. With the penalty count still increasing, Olney were on the receiving end and a catch and drive meant the ON’s forwards could exercise their control once again for another try. Chapman upset the man with the whistle again to see red and would see out the game from the sidelines. A carbon copy of the previous try extended the lead at the final play leaving ON’s deserved victors at 5-48. Overall, a decent performance from Olney and no-one to blame for the loss, but it showed on the day that ON’s are well used to playing at this level and Olney have much to learn with their young side gaining more experience each week.

A touching story was told this week regarding Olney’s most romantic couple. Mr and Mrs Harris were cuddling up on the sofa when he wondered why she never got angry with him much lately. It’s simple she said. Every time I’m in a bad mood I go up and clean the toilet. How does that help? Asked Mr Harris. To which she replied, it helps because for the last two years I’ve been using your toothbrush!