Under Pressure

Harborough took all available players and everyone had some game time, including debuts for two new joiners – Jack Woodward and Josh Carpenter.

First up were Lichfield, narrowly beaten last season so the return was keenly anticipated. Harborough looked fresh and fizzing and scored first through a breakaway from Ross Primrose, racing for the line from a ruck. Primrose was involved for Harborough’s second, combining well with Huw Davies to release newcomer Jack Woodward who turned the defence inside out and scored under the posts. This one was converted by Will Hallam to make the score 12 – 0. So far, so good.

But Lichfield had not travelled to roll over easily. They put huge pressure on Harborough’s try line and despite a tremendous defensive effort, they were not to be denied. The score was converted to make it 12 – 7 at half time.

Lichfield scored first in the second half, stealing the ball at a line out. At 12 – 12 it was all to play for and Harborough were under pressure. Now it was Harborough’s turn to put pressure on their opponents’ try line. Will Nijjer eventually managed to wrestle his way over for the decisive score, to finish 17 – 12.

For Harborough’s second game, Belgrave were short of a few players so the Harborough lads helped out, and certainly gave their all! Belgrave scored first and really took the game to Harborough. With scores also coming from Davies and Hallam (on for Belgrave), Harborough ended the half down 20 – 0. Some work was required in the second half.

Alejandro Scott made his presence felt straight away, with a fine break through the centre to score under the posts for James Melody to convert. Morgan Jones was next to score on the wing, and Harborough were beginning to motor having been under pressure in the first half. Carpenter was running the show, bossing his forwards (and the ref!).

The tries came quickly now, with braces for the day from Primrose, Scott and Woodward, before Henry Ingram marked his return to side with a score. Ingram had been out for a whole season, so it was good to see him back on the field. Melody converted, but the last score of the day went to Davies (for Belgrave) to make the final score 38 – 25 to Harborough. A thoroughly enjoyable morning of rugby.