Paths of Glory

Both sides took to the field with cheers from the crowd. The route to the final has been hard, and the competition has been fierce, so everyone was looking forward to a keenly fought contest. They were not to be disappointed.

The initial exchanges were close with both sides tackling well. Harborough managed to build some rhythm and got the ball out to Ed Duggan on the right wing. He was hauled down short and the danger was snuffed out by the opposition. Then it was Bosworth’s turn for a break down the wing, and it was Will Hallam who made the covering tackle. Another attack, and it was Max Dalby’s turn to force the player into touch.

Harborough continued to press and Duggan raced in with his next effort. Hallam converted and Harborough were 7 – 0 up.

The game was still tight, but the balance of possession and territory were in Harborough’s favour. Camped in the Bosworth 22, Harborough secured possession at a scrum and Henry Povoas stormed over to take the score to 12 – 0. Hallam was successful with the conversion again, making the score 14 – 0.

Bosworth continued to throw everything at Harborough and varied their attack with a kick in behind the Full Back. Harborough raced back and defended extremely well to keep their try line safe; reminiscent of their heroic defending in the semi-final.

The pressure was relieved and Harborough were soon back in Bosworth’s half. Hallam raced over from a quick tap penalty and converted his own score. 21 – 0.

Duggan was also enjoying his day in the sun and had the crowd cheering on a break down the wing, followed by a deft chip ahead that he only just failed to gather.

If the first half was closely contested, the second was even more so. Harborough just had the edge in the scrum and managed to steal some ball. The forwards contested everything and fought for every ball, with James Melody making a real nuisance of himself.

Bosworth used the wind with some attacking kicks and forced Harborough to defend. But when Harborough did build opportunities, they certainly didn’t waste them. Will Nijjer used his power and strength to force his way over from a maul out wide. 26 – 0.

But Harborough were caught napping when Bosworth worked their own quick penalty move to cross the line, making the score 26 – 5. The last score of the day was a peach, with all the replacements on the field. Tom Mercer, Sam Pindling and Huw Davies combined well, before Davies stepped inside and made a powerful run for the line. Hallam again converted and the final score was 33 – 5 to Harborough.

A marvellous display of rugby by both teams, played in a great spirit and very well hosted by Vipers RFC. This squad maintained their success in County competition. Every player made it on to the field and the squad members that could not be there; all have played their part in building to this success.