This top of the table Surrey Colts League clash produced one of the most enthralling contests played at Wrecclesham all season.  A firm pitch allowed both sides to play an expansive game and there was much skill on display from both teams. 

Old Alleynians were a well drilled side and from the kick off they retained possession, recycled the ball well and put in the phases.  Farnham met the challenge with some fierce tackling particularly from No7 James Hardy who was everywhere snuffing out potential danger.  But frustrated by lack of possession, Farnham hands were spotted in the ruck and the Old Alleynian No10 drilled home the penalty.

The next passage of play was almost a complete replica of the opening exchanges but with Farnham in possession. The pressure culminated with Farnham skipper Michael Salmon successfully converting his penalty shot.

Old Alleynians reply was a beautifully taken drop goal from their accomplished No10. Farnham failed to spot just how effective this player was with the boot and further indiscipline at the break down saw the visitors convert another penalty to widen their lead to 3-9.

Throughout the game, the Farnham front five exerted pressure on their opponents at the set piece and the breakdown.  After several phases pounding at the Old Alleynians line, scrum half Ali Holmes slipped a pass to man mountain Joe Curran who hit the defensive line at pace and burst through to score.

Salmon just missed the wide out conversion but after 40 minutes into the stiff breeze Farnham were still in the match at 9-8 down.

The second half was a tale of forward domination by the Farnham front five, stout defence by Old Alleynians and indiscipline from Farnham on the occasions they were under pressure.  Given a solid platform Salmon was able to pin Old Alleynians back with some accurate long range kicks, but when OA ran the ball back, it did not take long before a Farnham player infringed.

Another penalty to OAs and they had their noses in front at 12-8. Both sides were eager to finish the game off and started to move the ball. Gaps were appearing and it was only great tackling from both sides that prevented further scores. 

Eventually Farnham superior pack made their presence felt again. On receiving a 22 drop out following a penalty shot that grazed the post, the Farnham forwards put pressure on the OA line and set up Ali Holmes to wriggle over for the try. This time skipper Michael Salmon coolly slotted the wide out conversion 15-12.

Another thrust from OA’s saw the almost inevitable penalty conceded which was adroitly converted to bring the scores level at 15 all.  In the dying seconds of the game, Farnham managed to concede another penalty within range, and hearts were in the mouths of a large and appreciative crowd as this attempt went wide.

“The game was a great advert for Academy rugby,” said Farnham coach Geoff Bond.  “My man of the match was Farnham prop Hector Hoyte-Bone, but it could have easily have been hooker Chris Hughes, Joe Curran the other prop or Sam Gray who came on to prop at half time when we had to re-jig the pack for an injury. This front row was the difference between the two sides and but for better discipline their efforts would have been rewarded with a win. However, we did not concede a try and scored two of our own; we remain unbeaten in the league and have everything to play for.”