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Clinical Teddington secure bonus point victory
Simon Davis17 Sep - 17:55
Teddington make it two out of two with emphatic win over Harpenden
Teddington RFC backed up last week’s opening day victory by delivering a commanding 32–7 defeat of Harpenden, preserving their perfect start to the season in front of a jubilant crowd at Bushy Park.
The fixture coincided with the club’s inaugural Past Players Day, drawing a large and vocal turnout of former club stalwarts and supporters. The current squad responded with a performance that was both clinical, composed and worthy of the occasion.
Teddington struck early, playing some excellent high tempo rugby and registering three tries within the opening 20 minutes. Scrum-half Henry GALLIGAN, playing his first competitive game for the Antlers was in impressive form, crossing twice for the hosts, whilst another of Teddington’s summer recruits, full-back Hamish GRAHAM also got on the score sheet. Harpenden also crossed for an early try of their own but were being kept at arm’s length by an Antlers side, who looked organized in defence. A 19-7 half time lead was a fair reflection of the first 40 minutes. Into the second half and Teddington continued to deal with all Harpenden could throw at them. When opportunities arose, the Antlers worked good field position allowing Bob BEEVERS to nudge the lead along to 26-7. The hosts had to deal with injuries and yellow cards as the clock ticked on, but neither seem to hamper their performance levels and as the game entered the final 10 minutes, Teddington’s talisman Harry SMITH pounced on a loose ball and ran 40 yards to seal a bonus pint win with a try under the sticks.
Last week’s report highlighted the impressive breakthroughs of some young Antlers, and this week young lock Sam WOOLACOTT delivered a standout performance, earning Man of the Match honours for his command in the lineout and tireless work around the park. It’s been an impressive start for Teddington earning maximum points from their first two outings. However, it’s a long season and next weeks trip to London Irish will prove another stern test. Final Score Teddington RFC 32 Harpenden RFC 7. Man of the Match - Sam WOOLACOTT and Harry SMITH
The fixture coincided with the club’s inaugural Past Players Day, drawing a large and vocal turnout of former club stalwarts and supporters. The current squad responded with a performance that was both clinical, composed and worthy of the occasion.
Teddington struck early, playing some excellent high tempo rugby and registering three tries within the opening 20 minutes. Scrum-half Henry GALLIGAN, playing his first competitive game for the Antlers was in impressive form, crossing twice for the hosts, whilst another of Teddington’s summer recruits, full-back Hamish GRAHAM also got on the score sheet. Harpenden also crossed for an early try of their own but were being kept at arm’s length by an Antlers side, who looked organized in defence. A 19-7 half time lead was a fair reflection of the first 40 minutes. Into the second half and Teddington continued to deal with all Harpenden could throw at them. When opportunities arose, the Antlers worked good field position allowing Bob BEEVERS to nudge the lead along to 26-7. The hosts had to deal with injuries and yellow cards as the clock ticked on, but neither seem to hamper their performance levels and as the game entered the final 10 minutes, Teddington’s talisman Harry SMITH pounced on a loose ball and ran 40 yards to seal a bonus pint win with a try under the sticks.
Last week’s report highlighted the impressive breakthroughs of some young Antlers, and this week young lock Sam WOOLACOTT delivered a standout performance, earning Man of the Match honours for his command in the lineout and tireless work around the park. It’s been an impressive start for Teddington earning maximum points from their first two outings. However, it’s a long season and next weeks trip to London Irish will prove another stern test. Final Score Teddington RFC 32 Harpenden RFC 7. Man of the Match - Sam WOOLACOTT and Harry SMITH
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