After the disappointment of last week’s cancelled fixture due to a waterlogged pitch at Corsham, the BMT sponsored Sarries faced a second consecutive weekend without a game when Devizes were unable to raise a side for the scheduled league match. Fortunately, neighbours Oldfield were able to provide opposition at the last minute and both sides enjoyed an excellent game of rugby.
It was clear from the kick off that the visitors were not just there to make up the numbers, and they stormed into a ten point lead in as many minutes. A third try followed soon after and a heavy defeat looked on the cards. However after some tough talking behind the posts Sarries tightened up their defence and began to grasp a foothold in the game. Slowly and surely they gained confidence when in possession, and were eventually rewarded with their first try of the afternoon when a break by flanker Jamie Navarette saw his offload collected and grounded by scrum half Owen Swabey. Captain Alex Reilly added the conversion and shortly afterwards he claimed a try of his own, putting the home side right back in the game.
The second half continued to be a well contested affair with both sides playing some good rugby in the slippery conditions. Sarries claimed a third touchdown through fly half Eddie Bell, however Oldfield finished the stronger and added three more tries of their own. Their last try came in the final play of the game when they finished off a catch and drive from a line out.
While it was disappointing to lose the contest, Sarries can be satisfied with their performance against experienced opposition. This will leave them well prepared for their re-scheduled visit to unbeaten league leaders Corsham next week.
Finally, a big thank you to Oldfield for stepping in and providing the opposition at such short notice!
