OHs dig in for away win against Old Wimbledonians 9 - 25 OH

Match Report: 1st XV match report vs Old Wimbledonians

Full Match Footage: https://app.veo.co/matches/20230930-hailey-4c07c9ed/

In their first away fixture of the 2023/24 season, the 1st XV embarked
upon a challenging away visit to Old Wimbledonians. The game was a
marker of success for the season ahead, that will hopefully garner a
belief within the club that we can win at home or away.

In this fixture a colossal dog fight ensued between these two teams
that would not only test our ability on the pitch but also test our
determination to continue forging a successful path for the season
ahead.

A short, sharp warm-up highlighted our commitment to the fixture; our
focus within the warm up was a determiner of things to come. From the
first whistle, OH set the tone with huge carries from the forward
pack; most notably Henry Trimmer with a glorious break from a
lineout... woe betide any man who would get in his way. Within
minutes we had already won ourselves a penalty. Rather than go for
points, we used the momentum of the initial minutes to kick for the
corner. After some lovely handling from the backline, Ethan Mead
dotted down in the corner.

Old Wimbledonians countered our first score with a converted penalty
after a small stint with ball in hand.

This did not deter OH but rather impressed our need for free flowing
rugby. A quick tap penalty was the physical embodiment of joue rugby,
playing the game as opportunities presented themselves. Throughout
this middle period of the first half there was no clear dividing line
between both teams but after an impressive defensive set, OH kept Old
Wimbledonians at bay. More running rugby produced OHs second try
through the fine finishing of Will Thomas as we moved through the
first half. Some strong scrums and defensive sets from OH finished the
first half.

In the second half, OH continued to use their flare throughout the
backline to bludgeon the defence of Old Wimbledonians. These were best
exhibited by yet another Trimmer with some fantastic line breaks going
forward. However, as time continued forward, OH succumbed to the
pressure that was exhibited by Old Wimbledonians and began to give
away penalties for ill-discipline. These penalties were a life-line to
Old Wimbledonians.

However, as the game entered the last quarter, OH continued to display
a dominance man for man, resulting in a spectacular rolling maul try
from the lineout. The bonus point was within touching distance.....

At the final play of the game OH had the option to call it a day and
head to the bar or, rather, send a statement to every club throughout
the league. The later option was the only sensible one. A scrum in the
middle of the park gave options to both sides of the scrum and the
score was inevitable. OH bagged a bonus point win away from home
against a strong competitive Old Wimbledonians side.

This performance showed clear progress and immense potential.

Next Game- OH v Old Whitgiftian (Home).