Old Laurentians 27-22 Market Harborough
Midlands 2 East (South)
Report by Bill Wallis
RUGBY UNION: A SIXTH victory of the season has moved Old Laurentians up to third in the Midlands 2 East (South) while Saturday’s opponents Market Harborough dropped down to eighth to demonstrate just how tight the table currently stands.
After fly half Durham had kicked the visitors into an early lead, OLs went ahead with a stunning try from centre Troy Owen who received the ball just outside the 22 and made a slashing break through midfield. A couple of dummies later he was crossing near the posts after a run of over 60 metres for one of the best tries that will be seen at Fenley Field this season. Jon Bean converted for a 7-3 lead.
Just five minutes later Harborough’s right wing Fitzpatrick set up a try after brushing aside several would be tacklers as he ran a kick back at OLs, the try was converted and Harborough were three points in front as OLs were left regretting some flimsy defensive play.
Over the second quarter both sides fought hard to gain an advantage, but OLs shaded it with two Bean penalties after sustained attacking play through the phases earned its reward.
The break arrived with OLs 13-10 ahead but the lead was short lived as Harborough’s dangerman Fitzpatrick crossed for a try after four minutes of the second half, the goal points putting Harborough ahead again at 17-13.
OLs responded strongly and at a lineout ten metres out from the visitors’ line Ben Anderson made a clean catch, the pack drove for the line and James Orbinson touched down for his eighth try of the season, which was converted for 20-17.
OLs now had the upper hand and, after going through the phases to work their way upfield, quick ball from a breakdown was moved rapidly left where Ollie Jones went over. Bean converted and OLs were two scores ahead at 27-17.
With time running out, Harborough’s Fitzpatrick capped a fine performance with his second try to earn his side a losing bonus point.
This Saturday OLs face another stern test when they travel to take on Oadby Wyggestonians, who currently sit just one place and one point behind OLs in the table.
