Tough Test in Wet Weather

Steady rain all afternoon made this game a tough test for the youthful Harborough 2nd team. Early runs by Charlie Foskett and Ed Prowse set up Harborough's first try touched down by Rhys Charlesworth. Harborough tried to release their strong backs but a number of dropped passes meant promising moves were halted at crucial times.

Belgrave thundered around the park hitting ruck and maul and gaining the upper hand in the forward contest. This led to a penalty and try that saw the home team lead 8-5 and begin to dominate territory.

A strong break by Andrew Jarvis took play to within 5 metres of the Belgrave line. A smart dart and Chris Owen restored Harborough's lead with a fine individual try. Harborough led 10-8 at half time.

As the rain got heavier, the game got more scrappy, with both sides spilling the ball in contact. The two teams continued to batter each other but Harborough heads never dropped. Although they became frustrated with certain aspects of the game, they pushed up into Belgrave territory but failed to finish off their opportunities.

With ten minutes to go Chris Owen put up a high kick into the Belgave 22, the bounce eluded everyone except Owen who reached out with one hand to touchdown in the corner. This capped a fine display by the Harborough number 9.

The last play of the game saw Belgrave almost score but Harborough scrambled the ball away to seal victory. A tough test but well earned league points.