Two's Triumph

Harborough seconds were strengthened by increased player availability and on a windy day were just too fleet of foot for Loughborough.
Jake Abblett scored within the first 5 minutes with a rampaging run breaking through numerous tackles. Josh Haynes then added a second with a burst of acceleration through the midfield. Ryan Gibson was particularly impressive taking the game to the Loughborough forwards. George Clarke also saw plenty of action in the first 20 minutes and was unlucky not to get on the score sheet.

The visitors then lost concentration and squandered a number of chances, Loughborough started to turn over ball in the pack and scored a well worked try. This galvanised Harborough and a fine handling move, which would have graced any rugby pitch, saw Harry Hurst go through the gears and score. Will Taylor added the conversion. Loughborough struck back with a try to make it 17-12 to Harborough at half time.

With the wind behind them Harborough started well with a Will Taylor penalty, Josh Haynes scored his second try of the afternoon and Harborough started to pull away. Gibson found himself in space to add a well deserved try and it looked like the flood gates would open.
However, Loughborough were always combative up front and never let the visitors get too carried away.

With the impressive Rory Jeacock controlling the midfield , Nick Airey took a lovely line to score under the posts. Will Taylor finished off with the conversion. Paul Wilson and Luke Riordan helped lead some young forwards into the fray and the backs were just too hot to handle.

Although Harborough scored six tries they will have to protect the ball a bit better, drive 'opposition forwards' backwards and scrap harder for 50:50 ball. The team will however be encouraged with this performance.

Coach Tom Dyke commented 'This was a much better performance and it was nice to see both a full squad and some well worked tries. Although it got scrappy at times this is just the foundation we need for our remaining fixtures.'