In a repeat of last year’s opening league fixture, Farnham Rugby U16 ground out a close game last Sunday at the Wrecclesham against a physically superior Wimbledon XV.  However, thanks to a strong team effort and determined tackling, the result of last year was reversed with Farnham winning 10-5.

Farnham opened their account after the initial exchanges produced a Farnham penalty within kicking range.  The attempt at goal went wide but the follow-up was good and Wimbledon remained pinned against their line.  At an ensuing five metre scrum poor handling at the base of the Wimbledon pack induced by powerful Farnham scrummaging allowed scrum half Ali Holmes to pounce on a loose ball to score.  That try was just rewards for a fine all round game from Ali behind the pack as well as for the hard work of props Hector Hoyte Bone and Chris Hughs.  Michael Salmon made amends for the earlier penalty miss by slotting the conversion to give Farnham a 7-0 lead.

The remainder of the half was played in Farnham territory as Wimbledon came back strongly. Perhaps with the half time whistle in mind, Farnham’s concentration lapsed and Wimbledon eventually powered over for a try.  Dan Kirkbride, a busy and effective player as Farnham’s No 8, found the energy to sprint off the line as the Wimbledon kicker made his first move and was only yards away as the kick was made – close enough to induce a slice and for Farnham to close out the half with their noses in front.

The second half was a repeat of the first with Wimbledon having the bulk of the possession and territory.  In one of their rare visits to the Wimbledon, Farnham extended their lead with a penalty goal from Michael Salmon.  Thereafter Wimbledon played catch up rugby and consistently ran into the midst of Farnham’s solid defence while a couple of chances out wide went begging.

Nevertheless Farnham ran out deserved winners with intelligent kicking and determined tackling to keep Wimbledon at bay.  After the game head coach Pete Finneran said, “This was a tough game and the boys were under a lot of pressure.  But they kept their heads and showed immense spirit and some good skill as a defensive unit. This was a very satisfactory performance from which to launch our league season.”