Newbury travelled to grey and damp Reading in a SOS fashion. With their original opponents shying away, Redingensians called on Newbury's U14s to save the day. Although the squad was seriously weakened by County absentees, injuries and school commitments those boys willing and able dutifully stepped up to the mark.
Holding the lead a at half time, amazingly, as Newbury's forwards were not performing well and were often out muscled at the breakdown and set piece. For most of the second half Newbury kept the lead but threw away another win in the dying seconds. Not taking anything away from their opponents, it was a great game and Redingensians challenged well but Newbury not only scored their own points but gave Redingensians theirs too!!
However the positives were a squad of some 19 boys from Newbury, several playing their first fully competitive game nearly beat a squad considerably larger, in number, many of whom were also seasoned players.
So not all lost and it was great to see the ref, 75 years young, officiate his last game, well done Graham.
Final score, 22-19