Sat 9 Nov 2024
Peterborough RUFC made the trip to face 4th placed Market Harborough. Despite losing 35-29 the Borough side managed 2 bonus points to help lift them up the table to 9th place in Regional 2 Midlands East.
Peterborough started the game off the pace and were down by 8 points in quick order. Borough soon grew into the game and replied with two tries of their own. First Aram Jones scored after chasing a well placed kick from Byron Van Uden who then scored a try himself after some great phase play. The host however managed the last score of the half to leave Borough with a slim 15-13 lead.
Peterborough had the better of the first half when the game was moving at pace and credit to the home side they identified this and turned first quarter of the second half in to a arm wrestle, slowing play down. Harborough managed to score a penalty for their first points of the half and then score three tries using their physical forwards to crash over from close range. The last 20 minutes however belonged to Borough. Increasing the tempo of the game and shifting the ball through the hands they scored 2 tries to give them four for the game thus earning a bonus point. First Captain Luke Swindells crashed over after relentless pressure. Their last try went to scrumhalf Pat Webb who took a deft off load from centre Mooki Tshepo. With the score now at 35-29 Borough were firmly on top and with a last through of the dice couldnt get the converted try which would of sealed an upset win.
With the ball kicked into touch Borough had another bonus point for coming within 7 points. Despite the loss Borough can be proud of their effort as they continue to rebuild.
Director of Rugby Shane Manning's comments " it was another positive step in the right direction. It was a really physical game and if we'd had a few more minutes I believe we would of won that. Alfie Lewis had some really impactful runs and much the same can be said about Mooki Tshepo who has been on fire for us this season. But as ever their are things that need improving and I'm sure the lads will be working hard during the week. We have another tough home game this week against 3rd place Northampton Old Scouts. They play a really good brand of rugby and will be hard to beat. "
