Close Encounters

It seems a long time since the last round of the Cup, and this Semi Final was played at an impressive level of skill, intensity and sheer physical effort. The teams were well matched and it was tight from the off. There really was little to choose between the two.

Harborough started with more power in the scrum and had their best half of rucking so far this season, consistently winning opposition ball at the breakdown. But Hinckley chased down every break and refused to allow Harborough to build any momentum.

It was Harborough who broke the deadlock. A break through the centre ended with an infringement by the defence. A quick tap penalty, and Will Nijjer made an impressive drive for the line. Kicking was difficult in windy conditions, but Harborough had the lead at 5 – 0.

Hinckley had definitely not come to roll over though. It was their turn to pile on the pressure. Harborough’s defence held and the half time whistle allowed everyone to catch their breath.

Hinckley were fired up for the second half and threw everything at Harborough, in attack and defence. Harborough were forced into uncharacteristic handling errors and the defence was finally breached by Hinckley’s strong running centre. Out wide and against the wind, the conversion attempt was always going to be difficult, and the kick was only just short, to the dismay of the travelling support. At 5 – 5, it was anybody’s game.

In what turned out to be practically their only visit to Hinckley’s half in the second period, Harborough built a quality move with the ball passed smartly along the line for Ed Duggan to accelerate down the wing. Evading a covering tackle by a whisker, Duggan scored under the posts, presenting a straightforward conversion opportunity for Will Hallam.

Harborough were ahead at 12 – 5, but the game was a long way from being won. There followed an onslaught from Hinckley of epic proportions. Possession was theirs, field position was theirs, and only a defensive effort straight out of the top drawer kept them out. The ball was held up over the line at least twice and every attempt was repelled. A magnificent performance, especially from the forwards, but right through the squad. Too many try saving tackles to mention them all and it would be unfair to miss anyone out.

Harborough successfully relieved the pressure in the last few minutes and snuffed out any last efforts from the visitors. A great game of rugby, and a very competitive semi final played in a great spirit. Harborough can be proud of their team effort.