Sun 12 Nov 2023, 14:00
Old Halesonians 12-17 Alcester RFC Colts.
Alcester, sitting third this morning were on the road again this week, away at Old Hales, sitting second. The hosts had recorded high scoring wins recently but Alcester’s away record in the league is second to none.
A strong travelling squad started confidently but the wet weather caused handling errors from both sides, frustrating promising phases of attack. Despite that Alcester soon took the lead with a try from Gero McKeown and extended it with a second try from Harry “ Gaz” Wright mid way through the half, which Josh Williams converted.
Old Hales pulled one back after a defensive error by Alcester in their 22, and at half time Alcester led 12-5.
The forwards continued to dominate the opposition pack at the beginning of the second half, but an attacking running back line saw the hosts score out wide. The conversion meant that the sides were level 12-12 going into the final quarter.
An injury to scrum half Rich Udall meant Alcester’s back line had to reshuffle, with Josh Williams moving to scrum half. Continued forward dominance, grit and the desire to win was enough to see Alcester regain the lead with seven minutes left on the clock, through a second try for Harry Wright. Scenting a possible winning bonus point, Alcester hammered away at a staunch defence. A turnover with minutes to go saw Old Hales break away up field for what looked like a certain try, only for the ball to be spilled. Knock on. Scrum. Kick. Whistle. Win. Alcester leap frog Old Hales and now sit in second position, behind Upton on Severn.
Notable performances from the entire pack and off the bench, and congratulations to Player of the Match Josh Williams who ran the phases well, showed grit and determination, playing equally well in the 10 and 9 positions.
Alcester Colts next entertain Veseyans Colts at home on Sunday 26 November.
