Biggleswade RUFC

Biggleswade 2nd XV 33-7 Letchworth 3rd XV

After their recent gruelling encounter with Weston, Biggleswade 2nds were back in league action against local rivals Letchworth. With weather conditions abysmal the game was always likely to be a tight affair. 

The first half saw both sides fighting to gain the upper hand. Biggy were initially on top but gave away several penalties. Letchworth were composed and built up continued pressure which eventually yielded them the first try (converted).

This proved to be the extra motivator for the home side to find another gear. A period of sustained pressure resulted in a penalty kick to the corner. From the resulting lineout, Ed Findlay went over for the team’s first try from a maul this season. Luke Haverly added an excellent conversion from near the touchline.

With both sides locked at 7-7, the game continued to be an arm wrestle. It was Biggleswade who struck next. As Letchworth attacked in the Biggleswade half a long pass was intercepted by Lex Jackson who showed good pace and stamina to evade three chasing players.

In the second half Biggy used their two substitutions to keep energy levels up. This, combined with their improved fitness levels helped keep Letchworth at bay. 

Consistent pressure led to a further three tries, including a first 2nd team try for new player Max Schuster. The pick of the scores was from a kick through from fly-half Luke Haverly, which was kicked on by Dan Rogers to set off three Biggleswade players in a scrambled race for the ball, which Jack Sharp won. Jack Davidson added another try to his growing collection for the season - however he remains a few scores behind leader Dave Leslie who missed this game to have a well earned break in Wales.

The win means the 2nds regained top spot in the league. They’ll be hoping to retain this by extending their winning streak when they return to league action away against Hatfield on 5 March.

PHOTO: Moments before kick off, the sun broke through the cloud and drizzle long enough for both teams to join as one in a minute's applause to honour Jack Jeffery, aged 27, who sadly died after a serious injury while scoring a try for Evesham Rugby Club earlier this month. Biggy's senior teams and opposition sides all retired the number 11 shirt for the weekend in remembrance of the position that Jack used to play. Please remember, such events are extremely rare in the game. It was good to see the rugby community showing solidarity and respect in this way. RIP Jack.