In this non-league fixture a number of players were given a chance to show their mettle out of position and coach Geoff Bond took the opportunity to use all the substitutes in the second half.  Given the different shape to the side, it was a testament to the depth of talent at Farnham Academy that it beat a capable Winchester Colts side 19-0.

A stiff breeze and hard, dry surface meant the flight and bounce of the ball from kicks would have significant influence.  With the wind at their backs in the first half, Winchester exerted some pressure but failed to penetrate Farnham’s defences.  This was in no short measure due to the outstanding work rate and tackle count of man-of- the-match James Hardy.

“I counted 47 tackles made by James. It was a phenomenal performance,” said Bond.

The teams turned round at half time with no score. However, having seen off the “wind assisted” Winchester attacks and threatened on couple of occasions through the mazy running of full back Gabe Hills, Farnham felt comfortable.  With the luxury of a large squad Farnham were able to put on fresh legs and their superior skill and tactical know-how paid off.

From the kick off, the ubiquitous James Hardy burst through the first line of defence to take the ball inside the Winchester 22 where Ed Weeks took the pass to beat the cover from 15 yards out.  Michael Salmon converted.

Farnham’s second try was scored by second row James Morris who, repeating his exploits of earlier in the season, danced through the defence like a back.  Again Salmon converted.

The final try followed an enormous and pin-point accurate clearance from Salmon who, making most of the breeze, took Farnham from their own 22 to deep inside Winchester’s.  The subsequent passage of play saw Salmon himself break the line and pop the pass to Weeks, again in close support, for his second try.  This was unconverted.