READING RFC put in another fine performance but were ultimately beaten 28-16 at home to South West One East leaders Towcestrians.

It was a game that belied Reading’s lowly position in the table but which nevertheless keeps them deep in the relegation zone.

In the end the visitors scored the four tries needed for a bonus-point victory that Reading made them work hard for.

Indeed, Reading took a 16-14 lead in the 53rd minute and were very much in the game, but then Matt Smart missed with a penalty attempt – his only failure – and the subsequent drop kick was mis-fielded. 

The visitors took advantage of the unexpected possession and swept up-field for a converted try by substitute Dave Stocks. 

Three minutes wing Alex Chalcraft threaded his way through for a well-taken try which was also converted.

Suddenly Reading’s lead was transformed into a 12-point deficit and the deflation in team and crowd was palpable. 
Reading did come back with some good driving play, but the champions-elect held out for the win they must have doubted achieving at one time in the game.

The visitors’ first try, which, like all their tries, was converted, came after seven minutes following a quickly-taken tap penalty, Chalcraft going over before James Falvey added the extras.

Smart kicked a penalty to narrow the lead and then Charlie Davies scored what turned out to be Reading’s only try.

The hosts threw long at a line-out near the Towcester line, and although it was overthrown, flanker Tony Baker took it and drove for the line. 

As he did so Davies detached himself from the drive and was on hand to take the ball and dive over on the left. Smart kicked a fine conversion and Reading were leading 10-7.

The visitors came back with a converted try from scrum half Murray Aitchison just before half time, but two Smart penalties restored Reading’s lead and hopes of a surprise win. 

However, the visitors’ two tries in four minutes dampened Reading’s hopes of a surprise win, despite their best efforts as they kept going to the end.

The Reading effort was well led by captain and No. 8 Jon Cranton in a performance where everyone worked hard for the team. 

Coach Paul Gaster particulary praised Cranton and also picked out debutant Fraser Koefman for his performance. 

Gaster was positive about much of the performance but, as he said, their tendency to make elementary mistakes at important times let them down. 

Reading’s next game is at Maidenhead on Saturday, February 13.

 

BERKSHIRE Shire Hall suffered an embarrassing 89-0 home defeat to Farnham Royal in their BB&O Championship encounter.

Shire Hall visit Harwell on February 13.