Reports of last all fixtures can be seen on this page, latest at the top
to see last seasons reports, click here, Colts reports can be seen here
2nd XV Colts
Lutterworth 15 - OL's 3 Rugby Lions 10 - OL's 30

Clonmell Cup – Final

Old Laurentian 2nds 3 – Lutterworth 2nds 15

Lutterworth retained the Clonmell Cup in a disappointing game that rarely rose above the mediocre, the winners finishing more strongly to clinch a contest that OLs could have sewn up by early in the second half.

In an undistinguished first half, both sides enjoyed periods of pressure but neither could convert it into points. The play was of a staccato nature, with little continuity, and punctuated by a series of penalty awards to OLs. Unfortunately for them, the normally reliable Danny Orr was suffering an off day with his boot and missed three eminently kickable penalties, the first one unluckily bouncing back off a post.

A clear pattern emerged in the forward struggle, with OLs dominant in the set scrums but Lutterworth commanding the lineouts, their tall locks using their advantage to good effect. Half time arrived with the game in stalemate and a 0-0 scoreline.

Early in the second half, Orr missed another close range penalty before finally putting one over for a 3-0 advantage to OLs after eleven minutes. With the fly half in his usual form with the boot, OLs could well have been 15-0 ahead and in the clear by this time.

After an earlier long lecture, the Lutterworth number 5 finally exhausted the referee’s patience and was shown a yellow card. OLs failed to take advantage of their numerical superiority and twenty one minutes into the half, Lutterworth equalised with a penalty. Three minutes later, in the only passage of play in the whole game that had any coherence or continuity, Lutterworth scored a good try through their number four to take the lead for the first time at 8-3.

The Lutterworth pack was now dominant, putting the OL’s eight under increasing pressure with their driving play, and after OLs failed to clear their lines, went over for a second try, converted for a 15-3 lead after thirty six minutes.

There was just time for Ash McEwan to charge over the line from a quickly taken penalty, only to lose control of the ball as he attempted to ground it and OL’s last chance went with it.

Lutterworth ran out deserved winners by virtue of their last quarter effort, when they displayed more hunger and ran in the only tries of the game. OLs had potential match winners in their back line but failed to produce enough quality ball, particularly from second phase possession, to give them any chance to show their paces.

OL’s got off to a great start 2 minutes in to this local derby, as 2nd row Liam Munro scored on his debut run out for OL’s, John Carruthers converted 0-7. Lions responded within minutes down the left wing and James Collins levelled up the score line 7-7. The game settled down then for 20 minutes until John Carruthers tapped over a penalty and not long after dropped a goal to stretch OL’s lead to 7-13. OL’s were given another penalty inside Lions 22 and decided to go for a try which scrum half Chris Jones duly obliged and John converted for a half time lead of 7-20.

Lions were unlucky when their penalty hit the post after 2 minutes but minutes later made no mistake when gifted another penalty 10-20. Lions were trying hard to get back into the game and if it was not for OL’s steadfast defence the score line would have changed. However it was the combined power of Danny Murch and Mike Lampard for OL’s who moved the scores on in OL’s favour after 22 minutes 10-25. The game was made safe 5 minutes later when Mark Tanner was able to pounce on a optimistic kicked ball to leave the final score 10-30 and a nice way to end the season for OL’s. Next weekend – steer clear of Bournemouth as the lads will be touring down there.
April 19th

1st XV

2nd XV

3rd XV

Colts

OL's 21 - Earlsdon 0

Earlsdon 14 - OL's 18

OL's 31 - 28 Earlsdon

No Game

Old Laurentians 21 – Earlsdon 0

Laurentians ended their poorest league run for two years with a convincing victory over Earlsdon, in front of thirty five former club skippers at their annual Captains Day.  Those present spanned a period of sixty years, the most senior being Bob Jinks who held the post way back in the 1948/49 season. They witnessed one of OL’s best displays for some time against a side who have enjoyed an excellent season, finishing it a point ahead of OL’s in fourth place.

Set up by a storming display from their pack, OL’s kept a clean sheet defensively for only the second time this season, restricting the visitors’ scoring opportunities to a handful of penalty attempts. Making light of the absence of several leading players, OL’s dominated their opponents from the first whistle, and it took some stubborn defensive work by the visitors to keep the score down.

The midfield trio of Mark Palmer, Ed Wallis and Danny Murch were lively and threatening, Palmer turning the clock back with a vintage display at fly half. Troy Owen made a first team debut on the wing and he looked sound and composed throughout, dealing well with the high kicks that came his way.

A big bonus for OL’s was the return of James Murray at full back after a long injury layoff. He announced himself with a scything break from deep after just ten minutes, a move carried on strongly by prop Chris Le Poidevan that was just held by some scrambling defence from the visitors.

Murray opened the scoring for OL’s after fifteen minutes, putting over a penalty after prolonged OL’s pressure. Dan Volkman and Ricky Reed both went close as OL’s stayed on the offensive; then, after twenty six minutes, more OL’s pressure was halted illegally and the Earlsdon number eight was sin binned, Murray kicking the resultant penalty for a 6-0 lead.

Following the re-start, a thumping midfield tackle by Glenn Todd created an opportunity that was seized on by Murch and he was just held as he went for the line. Then, as half time approached, Palmer took quick lineout possession standing up flat and carved open the defence with a classic break, centre Ed Wallis cutting a good line inside him to be caught just inches from the line. The pack was up quickly in support and second row Dan Volkman charged over for the opening try and an 11-0 half time lead.

OL’s kept up the pressure through the second half but twenty five minutes had passed before Murray kicked another penalty for 14-0. Earlsdon’s frustration was beginning to show in a few petty skirmishes, but OL’s refused to relinquish their stranglehold on the game, even when losing influential number eight Glenn Todd to a yellow card.

The reward for unbroken OL’s pressure came after thirty minutes, when Palmer again initiated a move that was carried on by a half break from Wallis to set up Murch. The centre left the last defender on his back side as he swerved through for a well taken try, converted by Murray.

A dominant performance left OL’s ruing a string of poor showings that consigned them to fifth position in the league, after holding second place at the turn of the year and looking set for a promotion play off place. But it will leave the team in good heart as the planning starts for next season’s campaign, and another drive for promotion.

 

Earlsdon 2nds 14 – Old Laurentian 2nds 18

As the final score suggests, this was a close game, but in reality OL’s should have won it in the first forty minutes.

In the first half, OL’s allowed Earlsdon to spoil any possession they had resulting in frustration and poor execution of attacking opportunities. Earlsdon took advantage of some poor discipline early on, their forwards driving over for an early try.

OL’s only reply came with a Danny Orr drop goal shortly after Ash McEwan was surprisingly held up over the line, to give a 7-3 half time score in the home side’s favour.

After a few changes to give everyone a run out, the second half saw OL’s dominate possession and Mawande Sinyakanyaja intercepted the ball in his own half to run in for a try, Danny Orr adding the conversion to take his side into a 10-3 lead.

Earlsdon persisted in slowing down the ball illegally and a flurry of yellow cards followed, after one of which Danny Orr slotted a penalty to push the score out to 13-7.

Shortly after, OL’s backs took advantage of some quick lineout ball to combine well and send full back Scott Wiles over for a try in the corner and stretch the lead out to 18-7.

Back to full strength after their yellow cards, Earlsdon managed a late score after a spilt ball allowed their forwards to drive over, the conversion following for a final score to OL’s of 18-14.

The numerous Colts included in the side again played with great maturity and commitment; and with the front row of Fisher, Le May and McEwan totally dominating the set piece, OL’s pacey backs were able to ply their trade effectively so that the result was never really in doubt after the half time break.

The 2nds look to finish their season with some silverware on Sunday in the Clonmell Cup final against Lutterworth and need to take their good recent form into that game.

Training on Thursday night is essential to iron out the type of errors that will be punished by a Lutterworth team who always lift themselves on the big occasion to provide tough opposition.

 

Old Laurentian 3rds 31 - Earlsdon 3rds 28

This was a game of two halves in every sense as OL's came out of the blocks at 100 mph and stormed to a 24-0 lead by half time. The tone was set early on as fine interplay between forwards and backs saw Dave Longrigg power over for the first score after a fine break from skipper Stu Birch.

This was soon followed by Gary Hammond’s now customary try (his 15th of the season!) driving over from close range. OL’s were dominant at this stage in all areas with the forwards overwhelming their opponents and Daz Price kicking beautifully from hand to create good field position. This led to former 1st XV scrum half Steve Hewitt, a welcome guest for the day, darting over for a trade mark score, Price finding his goal kicking boots to add the extras.

The final score of the half went to skipper Birch, a just reward for his first half efforts as he bulldozed his way over from the tail of a line out, Price converting. OL’s came out for the second half looking like a different team and Earlsdon soon registered a couple of soft scores as the home side took their foot off the gas.

A mixture of poor handling and bad options saw OL’s spurn numerous chances as Earlsdon sensed they could claw back the deficit and went over for their third score to reduce the difference to 24-21. But OL’s managed to string a few phases together and John Brimley burst through to claim a fine try, Price again successful with the kick.

This should have seen OL’s home but poor discipline let Earlsdon back in again for a final score to set up a tight finish. But some excellent defence kept them out to see OL’s home to a hard fought win, completing a clean sweep over Earlsdon on the day.
 
April 12th

1st XV

2nd XV

3rd XV

Colts

Berkswell & Ballsall 11- OL's 10

OL's 69 - Berkswell & Ballsall 0

No Game

No Game

Berkswell & Balsall 11 - Old Laurentians 10

OL’s went down by a single point in an uninspiring display against a dour and limited Berkswell side. But the home team just about deserved their narrow win, dominating the second half when they had the slope and wind in their favour and gripping Laurentians in a stranglehold from which they couldn’t break loose.

OL’s started well enough and good pressure on the home side produced a penalty that was converted by Mark Palmer for an early 3-0 lead. After twenty minutes, Berkswell drew level with a penalty; but a period of mid pitch stalemate meant that neither side had threatened the try lines by this point.

This changed after Chris le Poidevan stole a Berkswell lineout ball, which was moved quickly out to Matt Miller. The left wing beat two men before finding Iain Wallis on his outside, and although the centre was left with a lot to do, he outstripped the remaining defenders in a run along the touch line before cutting in to score under the posts, Palmer adding the goal points for a 10-3 lead.

Five minutes later the half time break was reached and OL’s had failed to impose themselves on the game and build a lead from which to go on and win it. Berkswell’s pack had dominated the set scrummages and continued to do so as they occupied OL’s territory for most of the second period. Laurentians, however, were winning the lion’s share of lineout possession with another athletic display by Jeff Thomas, but were finding it difficult to convert this into territory, let alone points.

Ten minutes into the half, Glenn Todd, having another powerful game, stole Berkswell ball a few metres from his own line and Mark Palmer’s clearance kick, from behind the try line, unluckily hit a goal post and bounced into touch in goal. From the resultant five metre scrum, the ball was moved quickly to the left and the home side’s inside centre barrelled over from close range. The conversion was missed, to leave the score delicately balanced at 8-10.

Twenty two minutes into the half, the referee awarded a scrum to Berkswell just inside OL’s half but changed this to a penalty after what he considered to be unnecessary back chat. The Berkswell full back stepped up and banged it over the posts for his side to take the lead for the first time at 11-10, a lead that they held to the end.

The longer the game went on, the less OL’s seemed likely to score.  Their handling was frequently below the standard they are clearly capable of and communication was poor, leading to errors and loss of possession.

After starting out as one of the clear favourites for promotion at the start of the season, OL’s can now finish no higher than fifth in the league table. This Saturday they entertain Earlsdon in the season’s final league game. Their visitors are now three points ahead of OL’s in fourth and were responsible for putting paid to the Bilton side’s promotion hopes in the corresponding game last season, so a win would restore some lustre to the season.

 

Old Laurentian 2nds 69 -   Balsall & Berkswell 2nds 0

OL’s 2nds restored the natural order of things with a resounding victory over Berkswell’s 2nd string and, in doing so, regained some pride for the club.

OL’s totally dominated their visitors from the start, with a virtuoso performance from the whole team. With a solid platform from the forwards in both set pieces and the loose, the backs had a plentiful supply of good ball and cut open their opponents at will.

OL’s started the game at breakneck speed and moved the ball around the field, producing plenty of quickly rucked ball. Fine handling and support play produced tries aplenty, with seven coming in the first half alone, Kev White, Mike Coburn (2), Mawande Sinyakanyaja, Gary Hammond (2) and Dave Middleton all crossing the line before the break.  Danny Orr added four conversions, for a half time score of .43-0.

OL’s made several changes at half time but this did not alter the pattern of the game as they continued to pull their opponents apart at every opportunity. Gary Hammond completed his hat trick and added to an already impressive try tally this season, Ben Nuttall continued to impress, crossing the line twice, and Dave Middleton went over for his second of the afternoon. Steve Pike had by now taken over the kicking duties, and converted three of the four tries added to OL’s tally in the second half.

This was a fine performance as OL’s played some of their best rugby of the season, with every member of the team contributing to an emphatic victory. The first try saw the team pass the five hundred point mark in a season when they have always set out to play entertaining and open rugby.

 

April 5th

1st XV

2nd XV

3rd XV

Colts

Towcestrians 14 - OL's 17

OL's - Towcestrians

Towcestrians - OL's

No Game

Towcestrians ‘A’ 14   Old Laurentian ‘A’ 17

Despite the wet and windy conditions, this proved to be a well contested game played by 2 teams of equal league status. OL’s used the opportunity to give 4 Colts players Danny Orr, Danny Murch, John Carruthers and Ben O’Riordan some 1st team experience, from which they will surely benefit.
OL’s took the game to Towcestrians and dominated early proceedings and nearly capitalised when a good backs’ move saw Simon Bayliss beat 2 defenders before being tackled just short of the line. However, just 5 minutes later Bayliss scored in the corner, with Danny Orr successful with a difficult conversion. 0 – 7
With OL’s continuing to dominate, Towcestrians conceded a penalty for offside, successfully taken by Orr, 0 – 10.
Towcestrians then decided to take the game to OL’s, which resulted in a neat chip and run form Tow’s No 10 being well tackled by Matt Miller, just short of the line. Towcester then dominated the 10 minutes prior to halftime and only some dogged defence from OL’s kept them out. HT 0 -10

 

With just 5 minutes gone in the 2nd half, from the back of the scrum, No 9 Reed saw a gap and darted under the posts to score, successfully converted by Orr. 0 - 17.
This score seemed to dent Tow’s pride and they tore into OL’s , getting some reward with a well worked try mid-way through the 2nd half. 7- 17
Both sides came close to scoring, with Bayliss and Reed looking dangerous for OL’s, and with the OL’s defence holding firm until the final minute of the game when a well worked Tow’s forwards' move saw their prop go over to score and successfully converted. Final score 14 – 17.

OL's 2nd's 25 Towcestrians13

OL's started the game brightly with the pack in particular outplaying there bigger opponents employing the driving maul to great effect. OL's registered there first score of the game with a penalty from the boot of fly half Kev White which was followed quickly by the games first try scored by the impressive Pete Nealon after a break from scrum half Owen, Kev White converting. Towcestrians came straight back and were soon on the board when there lively number 9 went over in the corner. Both sides were intent on attacking from all areas and solid defence kept the game at 10-5 until half time. OL's made a number of changes and went on the attack from the whistle and centre Mitch soon forced his way over but this only spurred Towcestrians on and they soon scored again out wide and added a penalty to there total. OL's dug deep and from a line out the pack drove for the line Dave Middleton claiming the try. Mitch then capped a fine performance with his second try of the afternoon which gave OL's some breathing space. However Towcestrians came back at the home side but some excellent defence and great line out steals from Eddie Edwards and Ben Anderson saw OL's home. This was another fine team performance as players stake there claims for a spot in the Clonmell cup final side at the end of the month.

March 29th

1st XV

2nd XV

3rd XV

Colts

OL's 3 - Droitwich 23

OL's 50 - Bakers' Butts 12

Vets Champs

OL's 10 - Nuneaton39

Old Laurentians 3 – Droitwich 23
Second placed Droitwich visited Fenley Field for this match sponsored by Leader Systems and OL’s were optimistic of completing a double over the high flying Worcestershire side. But those hopes were undone by two factors – the weather, and the visitors’ prolific fly half Duncan Hughes. The veteran number ten had already clocked up over 200 points for his side this season and proceeded to add another 23 as he scored all of his team’s points in this game.
Droitwich had first use of the gale force wind that was blowing straight down the pitch, and built a 16-0 lead by half time. Turning round with the elements in their favour, OLs could, and should, have overhauled this lead but elementary errors and indiscipline regularly cost them position and the chance to register points.
OL’s started the game well and adapted their tactics effectively to suit the conditions, the forwards testing their opponents with some strong driving play. Carl Adams was a handful for the Droitwich defence all afternoon, frequently taking several opponents out of play with his powerful running. But OL’s were doing this from distance and didn’t get close enough to the visitors’ line to threaten it seriously, regularly being driven back by Hughes’ line kicking with the wind.
With fifteen minutes on the clock, the visitors’ back row combined well to create the opening for Hughes to burst through and touch down for a try that he converted for a 7-0 lead, against the run of play. Five minutes later, and with a penalty already awarded, Hughes dropped a goal to extend the visitors’ lead. The same man then completed a full house of scores with two massive, wind assisted penalties from just inside OL’s half to complete the first half scoring.
OL’s started the second half by going straight on to the attack and looked to be on course to clawing back the deficit when Steve Pike slotted a penalty after just two minutes. But despite spending most of the half camped in opposition territory, OL’s couldn’t conjure up the inspiration or the flair to penetrate an obdurate Droitwich defence; and the visitors’ discipline was good, allowing OL’s few scoring opportunities from penalties.
In the dying minutes, Droitwich lifted OL’s siege to get out of their own half, and that man Hughes intercepted a pass to run in for a try as OL’s, chasing the game, tried to run the ball from deep. The conversion brought the referee’s whistle for full time and gave the score a slightly lop sided look.
But OL’s could have few complaints, having failed to capitalise on the conditions when they were in their favour. Alongside Adams, flanker Glenn Todd caught the eye for another non stop performance; and Garrie Reeve’s scrummaging helped to give his team the upper hand in this phase of play.

 

OL’s Veterans claim the title at South Warwicks tournament
OL’s all conquering Vets won the Bob Jones Cup for the third year in succession at the South Warwickshire tournament held at Old Leamingtonians ground on Sunday.
The side was drawn in a pool with Southam, Warwickians and Kenilworth which proved to be far more difficult than expected, the standard of rugby having improved since last year. OL’s managed to go through as runners up, courtesy of a good win over Warwickians and a draw against Southam. But losing to Kenilworth meant that, to reach the final, they would first have to overcome old rivals Broadstreet in the semis.
In that match, OL’s looked like a different team and from the kick off a fine catch from Parkinson saw the forwards drive Broadstreet back into their own half.  Dave Middleton fed Daz Price, who in turn sent Mark Palmer scorching through midfield to hand on to Rhys Wade for a try under the posts, Price adding the conversion.
Broadstreet then threw everything at OL’s, but from 1 to 15 they tackled like men possessed and with Eddie Edwards and Lawrence Sherriffs disrupting their line out, Broadstreet could find no way through. Then, from a turnover, OL’s moved the ball downfield for Gary Hammond to score and put the final nail in the Street's coffin.
This superb victory put OL’s into a final against Kenilworth and with a real belief that they could get their hands on the trophy for an unprecedented third time in a row. The final started slowly for OL’s as they conceded a number of penalties, but once they kicked into gear, they blew their opponents away with four superb tries from Gary Hammond, Mark Palmer, Dave Longrigg and Rhys Wade, skipper Price adding two conversions and a penalty for a resounding 27-0 victory.
This was an excellent performance from the whole squad and during the semi and the final OL’s played some superb rugby, cheered on by a large band of travelling supporters. Having picked up this trophy three years in a row, this must surely make them the best Vets team in the county.

 

Old Laurentian 2nds 50 – Barkers Butts 2nds 12
Laurentians had the strong wind at their backs for the first half and a 19-7 half time lead always looked enough to secure the game when turning round to face the elements. But OL’s then proceeded to run the visitors ragged in a virtuoso second half performance that produced a further five tries before the referee took pity on both sides in deteriorating conditions and blew up early.
Barkers big pack were strong scrummagers but lacked mobility, and OL’s tactics of  moving the ball wide and keeping the game fluid paid off handsomely, particularly with Mawande Sinyakanyaja on the wing to finish attacks with his electric running. The young Springbok was far too hot for the opposition to handle and had recorded a hat trick of tries by half time, his record now standing at nine touchdowns in just four full games for the club.
Strong driving play by their forwards in the loose laid the platform for OL’s second half blitz, with further tries from Scott Whyment (2), Mike Coburn, Ben Anderson and Danny Treharne. Danny Orr added the goal points to five of the eight tries run in by his side; and Ben Anderson put in a fine man of the match performance in the pack.


Old Laurentians 10 - Nuneaton 39

OL’s started with the wind on their side and early possession came to no avail after they found themselves in kicking distance of the posts but opted to play. On 9 minutes another pen in the Nuns 22 narrowly missed the uprights but John Carruthers did convert 2 minutes later (3-0). On 14 minutes a high kick from OL’s and fortuitous bounce, followed up by Harley Steel and Danny Murch who both dived on the ball just before Nuns dead ball line which JC converted for a 10-0 lead. Nuns kept coming but OL’s defence held up well until the last play of the half, when Nuns prevented OL’s kicking safe and then scored HT 10-5.
The second half proved a tough test for OL’s Colts, not only against the wind but also the bigger, stronger Nuns Colts. The pressure was relentless on OL’s and the stronger visitors ran over 5 tries. Their stronger pack simply overpowered the OL’s lads. Nuns even slotted a cheeky little drop goal along with 3 conversions to win convincingly in the end 10-39.

March 22nd

1st XV

2nd XV

3rd XV

Colts

No Game

No Game

No Game

No Game
 

March 15th

1st XV

2nd XV

3rd XV

Colts

OL's 21- Market Bosworth 14

Old Leams 31 - OL's 7

OL's 10- Old Warks 0

No Game

Old Laurentians ‘A’ 21 – Market Bosworth ‘A’ 14

OL’s returned to winning ways in an entertaining match that was used by both teams to give an outing to new and untried players at this level. It also gave the opportunity for Carl Adams and Glenn Todd to work back to match fitness for OL's after injury layoffs and both featured prominently in a much needed and well earned victory for the home side.

Bosworth demonstrated their attacking intentions early on and only a superb covering tackle by Glenn Todd prevented an early score for the visitors. Then after ten minutes of relentless pressure from Bosworth, Todd skilfully stole the ball in a tackle to set up a movement that saw full back Steve Pike make good ground before releasing to Ed Wallis for the centre to run in for the game’s first score, fly half Danny Orr adding the goal points

The visitors continued to dominate territorially but were hit by another swift counter attack by OL’s after twenty two minutes, when a storming run by prop Chris Le Poidevan was carried on by right wing Simon Bayliss. After the attack had been halted on the wide right the ball was swiftly transferred to the other wing, where Matt Miller beat his man on the outside and handed off another defender to go over for a fine try, again converted by the impressive Orr.

Bosworth got the try that their first half attacking efforts had earned when their pack drove over after thirty minutes play, the conversion bringing the score back to 14-7; and it took a magnificent tackle by Le Poidevan to save a certain try and ensure that OL’s still held that lead at the half time break.

As Bosworth had dominated territory in the first half, so OL’s took over in the second, the home pack gaining the upper hand in scrum and lineout, and the third OL’s try was both made and finished by the forwards. Jeff Thomas won a lineout and timed his release perfectly to number eight Carl Adams as he doubled back towards the blind side, from where he put hooker Mark Todd over. The try was superbly converted from the touchline by Danny Orr to crown a polished and assured performance by the debutant.

Bosworth stayed in contention well and finished the scoring after thirty three minutes from a quickly taken free kick for a scrum offence deep in OL’s half, quick passing giving their outside centre the chance to go over wide out for a try that was converted with a fine kick by their fly half.

OL’s gave second half debuts at this level to young South African recruits Mawande Sinyakanyaja and Ross Tonkin and each was impressive in both attack and defence, Mawande getting several opportunities to demonstrate his electric pace and elusive running.

A Laurentian touring party will be in Bournemouth this weekend and those remaining will host Huntingdon in a ‘B’ team fixture at Fenley Field, kick off 3.00pm.

Old Leamingtonians 2nds 31 – Old Laurentians ‘B’ 7

When OLs met OLs it was the Leamington variety who used their forward power and strength to dominate a smaller, youthful Laurentian pack and set up a convincing win for their team. The home side took an early lead with a try, soon adding a second to stretch further ahead.

When Laurentians did win decent possession their back line looked lively and penetrative, and the team’s only score came from a fine try by fly half John Carruthers, who converted his own touch down.

Laurentians started the second half well, camping on Leam’s line, but were unable to add to their score. Leams took over for the final quarter, adding three more tries to finally crush spirited OL’s resistance and Laurentians were denied the second try that their efforts had earned by a forward pass with the line beckoning.

Prominent in the Laurentian display were Danny Treharne and converted wing Mike Coburn in the pack; and the highly promising John Carruthers at fly half.

Old Laurentian Veterans 10 – Old Warwickians 0

OL’s Vets started the preparation for the defence of their trophy at the South Warwickshire Veterans Tournament on 30th March with this game

OL's started brightly and after several phases moving them from one 22 to the other, the ball reached Daz Price who cut through a large hole in the defence to register the first try of the game.

OL's dominated all areas with a solid scrum and  Spriggs and Sherriffs ruling the line out, so there was a constant supply of ball. But a combination of wrong options and inconsistent refereeing meant the game became stop-start and no further scores were added by half time.

OL's unfortunately lost winger John Linnell with a broken ankle which saw Russ Parkinson come on in the unfamiliar role of wing three quarter.

The second half continued in the same vein with OL's dominating everything except the ref's whistle and after a spate of cards for both teams it was left to Garry Hammond to drive over the line after a line out on the 22.This was to be the end of the scoring as the game deteriorated further and the teams were glad to hear the final whistle to put them out of their misery.

March 8th

1st XV

2nd XV

3rd XV

Colts

Kidderminster 36 - OL's 12

Market Bosworth - OL's

OL's - Market Bosworth

No Game

Midlands Three West – South

Kidderminster  36 - Old Laurentians 12

OL's travelled to Kidderminster to face a mid table side who have competed effectively all season and have always been difficult to beat and approached this game with some trepidation and low in confidence, after three straight defeats and with a team missing a number of key players.

But at half time, having faced a strong wind and driving rain in the first half, OL's looked to be on course for a much needed win with the scores level at 5-5. The picture looked even brighter after ten minutes of the second half, when Laurentians moved into a well deserved 12-5 lead with a superbly taken try by Danny Murch.

But then Kidderminster increased their pace and effort and scored a further 31 points without reply, to run out convincing winners and leave OL's scratching their heads and trying to work out how this game got away from them.

The Fenley Field side fought well in the first half and contained the Kidderminster kicking game well. Tom Gleghorn and Jeff Thomas made the line outs their own and the home side’s possession was regularly disrupted in the tight. OL's opened the scoring when fine play by the pack set up the position for Ricky Reed to dive over for a try after fifteen minutes.

But Kidderminster struck back ten minutes later to level the scores, their scrum half going over wide out. The reminder of the half saw OL's on top, with Miller and Iain Wallis both running strongly and Murch skilfully fielding a cross field kick from Denzil Evans in space only for the final pass to go forward.   

Turning round with the elements in their favour, OL's started the second half as brightly as they had finished the first. After ten minutes, and in only his second start for the first team, Danny Murch scythed through the home defence for a fine try that restored OL's lead. The goal points were added by John Carruthers, a half time replacement for the injured Evans and making his league debut for the club.

But the final twenty five minutes belonged exclusively to the home team as they ran the ball at a tiring OL's defence and added five tries without reply. The earlier drive and cohesion displayed by Laurentians evaporated completely and they capitulated to a fitter side who in the second half had adapted their tactics to suit the conditions far more effectively than their opponents.

Laurentians travel to Berkswell and Balsall for another tough test this Saturday, now with an injury doubt hanging over skipper Denzil Evans to add to a lengthening list. Four consecutive defeats have torpedoed their season and they now only have pride to play for with just three league games remaining.

Old Laurentian 2nds 21 – Bedworth 2nds 10

Veteran Principalians Rhys Wade and Eddie Edwards marshalled a mixture of colts and regular 2nd teamers to a third victory over local rivals Bedworth this season. The colts were influential in all the scoring with the flying Mawande Sinyakanyaja (Randy) adding another brace of electric tries with Rhys Wade finishing off a combined backs move for a try. Randy has now played three games for OL's and totted up six tries. Danny Orr completed the scoring adding all 3 conversions to cap a mature and solid game in defence and attack.

The majority of possession came from line outs, from both OL’s and Bedworth’s throws, and was used to attack from all over the pitch. But OL's were made to work a bit harder at the scrum and untidy ball meant the margin of the win was not more comfortable, as Bedworth used their heavier forwards to score a try at the end of each half to give a slightly misleading final score line of 21-10.

Danny Treherne, Ross Tonkin and Mitch showed versatility in playing out of position in the backline and made valuable contributions throughout the game. More chances were created but spoiling tactics and some flagrant offside play kept the scoreboard from showing a true reflection of the difference between the sides.

 

Old Laurentian 3rds 27 – Market Bosworth 3rds 39

OL's faced a strong Bosworth side and having lost the toss played into a strong wind in the first half. The pack started in fine form dominating the lineout and scrum, and employing the driving maul to keep Bosworth in their own half. However when Bosworth gained possession and moved the ball wide it was clear to see where their advantage was to be.

 OL's registered their first score when Birch went on a trade mark thundering run and was held up short, to find the impressive Ben Nuttall in support to force his way over. OL's scored again when from a planned move at the scrum the pack drove Gary Hammond over for his now customary try.

But Bosworth registered three scores of their own which owed as much to OL's mistakes as the backs superior pace. OL's scored again before half time when Birch managed to pick up a pass off his boot laces and again find Nuttall in support to claim his second try.

The second half saw Bosworth dictate the play and having secured possession it was left to the backs to go through their paces and register four more tries, two being converted. OL's were not finished though and never gave up the cause; and after Foster touched down in the corner, Marsella barrelled his way over from close range, Price adding the conversion.

This was a fine team effort against a very strong outfit, with notable contributions from Dougherty, Birch and Hammond up front. Had it not been for basic errors the score could, and should, have been a lot closer.
March 1st

1st XV

2nd XV

3rd XV

Colts

OL's 10 - Old Ed's

 Old Ed's - OL's OL's 61 - Old Ed's 0

OL's 10 - Lions 12

Midlands Three West – South

Old Laurentians 10 – Nuneaton Old Edwardians 19

Laurentians turned out in this game sporting a new change strip which was formally presented before the match by Lawrence Webb, managing director of Webb Ellis, sponsors and official kit suppliers to the club.

Sadly, the smart new strip was not matched by performance and they succumbed lamely to an Old Eds side that was far more purposeful and committed and carried too much firepower up front for the home side. The absence of several key players could be offered in mitigation – certainly Carl Adams, Paul Willis and Glenn Todd would have stiffened the forward effort. But this shouldn’t be a problem for a side widely acknowledged earlier this season as promotion candidates when up against opponents who have been in the bottom half of the table throughout.

With a gusting wind at their backs, OL’s took an early lead when Dave Longrigg was sent over for a try by Chris le Poidevin, the goal points being added by Denzil Evans for 7-0. But the visitors’ pack took control and was dominant by the second quarter, pinning OL’s in their own half with pick and drive tactics that they struggled to contain.

A half time lead of 7-0 looked inadequate as Laurentians turned round to face the elements and opponents who sensed a rare victory at Fenley Field. Ed’s pack were now on top in the set scrums and their forceful back row, prompted by the wily Paul Mitchell at scrum half, were regularly making inroads into the home side’s defence.

Ten minutes into the half, a pass was spilled as OL’s attempted to run from deep and the dangerous Ben Helsby on Eds right wing snaffled the ball to run in from thirty metres, full back Duncan Carter converting the try to level the score at 7-7. Ten minutes later, after Carter missed with a penalty attempt, Eds ran the drop out back and number eight Tej Kalirai shrugged off tackles to set up the position from which Helsby went over for his second try and  a 7-12 lead.

OL’s only fruitful source of possession was the lineout, where Jeff Thomas reigned supreme, aided by some pin point throwing from hooker Mark Todd. But with little possession from scrums, and second phase possession laboured and slow, OL’s backs had few chances to show their paces and were held in check by a strong Eds midfield defence.

Although Evans reduced the deficit with a well struck penalty after twenty five minutes, Eds soon went further ahead when their pack wrecked another  scrum to win possession and drive hooker Sam Wilson over for the decisive score, Carter converting the try to seal the victory.

A late flurry by OL’s was comfortably held for Eds to claim the league points and leave the home side facing the risk of their season imploding at the end for the second year in succession. They face a tricky visit to Kidderminster this Saturday, urgently needing to improve their commitment and organisation.

Nuneaton Old Edwardians 2nds 36 - Old Laurentian 2nds 21

 travelled to Nuneaton with a side featuring only three players over 30 and five colts, and as Eds took to the field OL’s thought they had arrived in the land of the giants as from one to fifteen Ed's appeared to be a foot taller and five stone heavier.

This physical advantage set the tone for the game and Eds dominated the break down and made life very difficult in the tight. However, after the home side registered an early try OL’s came right back into the game. Number 8 Middleton rescued the ball from a retreating scrum and it was fed down the line for young Springbok Mawande Sinyakanyaja to show his pace and score under the posts, Danny Orr adding the conversion.

This score gave OL’s belief and despite having little ball they scored again when the ball found its way again to the livewire Mawande and his pace was too much for the Ed’s defence as he broke through and raced over from half way, Orr adding the conversion.

Edwardians then scored another unconverted try through their pack to bring the half time whistle with OL’s leading 14-10. The second half continued in the same vein and despite some outstanding defence led by Andy Orbison, Garrie Reeve and Ross Tonkin, Ed’s forward power saw them score three more tries before James Morgan muscled his way over for OL’s, Orr again adding the extras.

OL’s were now tiring and giving away a number of penalties, which the Eds number 10 duly converted; and with the powerful Ed’s number 8 crossing the line at the death, the game was over. Although OL’s lost, they can take great pride in the way they played with everyone contributing to the defensive effort. Colts Danny Orr and Chris Jones at half back both made impressive debuts but man of the match was Garrie Reeve, who never took a backward step and threw himself wholeheartedly into the defensive cause.

Old Laurentians 3rds 61 – Nuneaton Old Edwardians 3rds 0

The 3rds went some way towards restoring  pride with a handsome win against Eds, the only one recorded on the day against the Nuneaton club.

The foundations for the win were laid by a dominant forward performance, at the heart of which was probably the oldest second row combination ever to be fielded by Old Laurentians. John Tull and Andy Spriggs boast a combined age of 110, and, according to prop Leigh Fisher, ensured the most comfortable scrums the team’s front row has experienced for many a long day.

In another one for the record books, Ian Bracken, whose normal habitat is the hurling fields of Ireland, came on for his first ever game of rugby football as a replacement and scored a try with his very first touch of the ball.

Tim Dougherty exploited the absence of Gary Hammond to claim three tries and draw level with the latter as the team’s leading try scorer, both now on eight for the season. The other tries contributing to a total which saw the 3rds become the top team in the club for points scored this season were from James Orbison (2), Andy Spriggs, Leigh Fisher, Josh Brimley, Adam from Long Buckby and Mike Lampard. Pete Rigg kicked two conversions and Kev White added one.
February 23rd

1st XV

2nd XV

3rd XV

Colts

OL's 8 - Kenilworth 58

 No game OL's 29 - Southam 20

OL's 10 - Lions 12

Kenilworth 58 – Old Laurentians 8, Coors Warwickshire Cup, Quarter Final
Ranked two leagues above OL’s, Midlands League One side Kenilworth were always favourites to come out on top in this encounter and they duly claimed their semi-final spot with an irresistible display of running rugby and clinical finishing.

But OL’s came out of the match with heads held high, having contributed in full to a game which had something for everyone, partisan or neutral. Seriously depleted by injury and non availability, OL’s fielded a side which could best be described as makeshift, but that would detract unfairly from the efforts of the squad that did duty on the day.

OL’s started with two back row forwards in the three quarters and Iain Wallis in the unfamiliar berth of fly half, a positional change which guaranteed a running game as kicking doesn’t feature in his repertoire. Rich Foxon and Andy Coleman, the two back rowers seconded to the backs, responded enthusiastically and skilfully to his prompting, right wing Simon Bayliss looked as dangerous as any player on the field with ball in hand and full back Matt Miller always threatened when running out of defence.

OL’s started brightly and soon Bayliss was denied a try because of a foot in touch. It was against the run of play when Kenilworth broke from deep to claim their first score after eight minutes, then a similar counter attack resulted in a second after twelve and a 14-0 lead. From the re-start, Iain Wallis took a short kick to the ten metre line, gathered it himself to send his brother Ted away on a long probing run before the defence just got back to hold Bayliss on the line.

Then Dave Longrigg charged down a clearance kick and only a lunging Kenilworth boot saved a try as he dived for the ball. More Laurentian attacks followed and they finally gained some reward when Eddie Edwards converted a penalty to reduce the deficit to 14-3. Then Foxon sliced through the home defence on a fine run and lofted an inch perfect pass to Bayliss, who chipped through and was denied a try only by a wicked bounce. Injury soon forced the unlucky winger off the field, to be replaced by Andy Orbison, another wing forward.

By the time Kenilworth again broke from deep to claim their third try and go 19-3 up, OL’s could feel unlucky not to have claimed four of their own. But the home side’s pack was now dominant and they created the position for two more tries and an unassailable 31-3 lead at half time.

Another passage of fine combined play saw Kenilworth stretch out to 38-3 soon after the break, but OL’s struck back quickly with an opportunist try after Miller and Coleman had run the ball out from deep defence. The attack was held inside the Kenilworth 22 on the right and OL’s retained possession and moved the ball to wide on the left. But the referee had spotted an offence at the initial breakdown and after no advantage ensued, he called play back for the penalty, Iain Wallis sprinting forty metres back across the pitch to take a quick tap and plunge over with the home defence in disarray, reducing the deficit to 38-8.

Longrigg was denied a second time, held up over the line when a try looked certain, but Kenilworth were now testing a tiring defence to the full and cut loose to add a further four tries in the final quarter, twice counter attacking from deep after holding OL’s attacks and turning over possession.

OL’s were again indebted to tireless displays from flankers Glenn Todd and Jeff Thomas; and were delighted to welcome Chris Le Poidevan back after a long absence, the prop coming on as a second half replacement and immediately making his presence felt.

OL’s return to League action this Saturday, entertaining Nuneaton Old Edwardians at Fenley Field in a 3.00pm kick off. This match kicks off the final phase of their league programme and the Bilton side must target to win their last five games to stay in touch with the race for promotion.

Old Laurentian 3rds 29 – Southam 3rds 20
Although OL’s won the lion’s share of possession and dominated territorially for long periods, Southam made them fight every inch of the way before the home side clinched victory with two late tries.

As injuries meant that the first team had called up several second team players, OL's had to cancel the seconds’ game, leaving a strong replacements bench for the thirds which certainly bolstered their chances.

Perhaps slightly fortuitously, OL’s got off the mark with a penalty try, Kev White kicking the conversion. The same player then added a drop goal before Tim Dougherty went over for a try wide out.

A second try for Dougherty followed, White’s conversion taking OL’s into the lead at 22-20, a point from which they didn’t look back. Gary Hammond went over for the final try, after a lineout catch and drive, to clinch the win and add to his already impressive tally this season. White added the goal points to complete the scoring.

Rugby Lions Colts 12 – Old Laurentian Colts 10

This local derby rematch pitched the experienced Lions squad against a younger OLs Colts side and from the first whistle, passion and fire were in abundance. OLs were camped in Lions territory for most of the first half but opportunities to score for the visitors came and went without success. The referee had a busy time too, sending two Lions players to the bin for different offences. OL’s should have punished Lions on more than one occasions but failed and it wasn’t until the stroke of half time that Danny Treharne went over for a try to break the deadlock, John Carruthers converting for a 0-7 lead.

With Lions still short of players on the pitch, OL’s started the second half stronger and on four minutes John Carruthers slotted a penalty to increase the lead to 0-10

With Lions back to full strength, pace and missed tackles by OL's resulted in the home side’s Ben Scott scoring, James Collins converting to reduce the deficit to 7-10, with less than 10 minutes gone. Further intervention by the referee resulted in another Lions player binned but nevertheless the home side scored again on twenty two minutes to go ahead for the first time at 12-10. Despite giving a good account of themselves, OL's could manage no further scores and they were left to reflect on missed opportunities.

February 16th

1st XV

2nd XV

3rd XV

Colts

OL's 12 - Sutton 51

B team fixture cancelled at last moment

OL's - Syston

Any lingering promotion ambitions still harboured by OL’s were totally demolished by league leaders and champions-elect Sutton Coldfield in this rout in the leafy suburbs of Birmingham. Laurentians were thrust aside by a dominant Sutton outfit that showed no sign of being distracted by the imminence of their EDF Senior Vase national quarter final this weekend.

A weakened OL’s side had their moments, and actually took an early lead with the game’s first try. But they couldn’t sustain any sort of momentum, falling away badly at the end as Sutton scored almost at will to complete a nine try haul - and with a kicker in their side they would have passed sixty points.

Veteran Mark Palmer was again required for duty at 10 in the absence of skipper Denzil Evans and he deftly created an opening for Iain Wallis after just three minutes, the centre breaking a tackle to go over from 22 metres. This lead was held until the eleventh minute, when from a scrum on OL’s 22 the home scrum half combined well with his back row to send the number eight over for a try that levelled the scores.

Laurentians’ midfield trio of Palmer and the Wallis brothers frequently found themselves outnumbered as the big, hard running Sutton back row spearheaded their side’s attacks. They tackled everything coming their way, but the attacking tide was relentless; and when the ball reached the flanks the home side had expert finishers in their wings and full back, this combination creating and scoring their side’s second try for a 12-5 lead after sixteen minutes play.

For the next twenty minutes, OL’s stayed in contention; but the last five minutes of the half saw the home side stretch away to a winning lead with two tries. The first came after OL’s had successfully defended a forward drive from a penalty lineout, but then a vital tackle was missed as a lock forward drove over to score.

The wayward re-start kick was gratefully accepted by the Sutton number eight in the wide open spaces away from the OL’s pack. He ran straight through the Laurentian defence to send his left wing away for a simple try - and suddenly OL’s were down by 24-5 as the half time whistle went.

Sutton exploited missed tackles early in the second half to put their centre over and stretch the lead out to 29-5. But OL’s responded positively and briefly threatened a revival with a flurry of attacks, Iain Wallis creating the opening for his brother Ted to go over for a try which Palmer converted, to reduce the deficit to 29-12.

But Sutton took over completely in the final quarter, scoring four more tries as OL’s resistance melted away. The Sutton eight were now totally in charge and twice drove over from line outs to score,  the first from fifteen and the second twenty metres from OL’s line.

For OL’s, the back line defended stoutly but had few opportunities in attack as good possession was in limited supply. Up front, veteran props Russ Kennedy and Ash McEwan put in their stints and their contributions have been invaluable in recent weeks as OL’s struggle for specialists in this department; and wing forwards Glenn Todd and Jeff Thomas had fine games, never shirking the tackle and always in the thick of the action.

This Saturday, Laurentians make the short journey to Kenilworth to take on the Midlands One side in the quarter final round of the Coors Warwickshire Cup. Injury problems mean that key players Denzil Evans and Carl Adams will not be available; doubts still surround James Murray’s recovery and Paul Willis’s availability after another recurrence of his knee problems; and Mark Palmer will be in Paris following England’s fortunes, leaving a serious selection headache at fly half.

February 9th

1st XV

2nd XV

3rd XV

Colts

OL's 48 - Edwardians 11

OL's v Barkers' Cancelled

OL's 33 - Old Cov's 10

OL's - St Andrews

Midlands 3 West (South)

Old Laurentians 48 – Edwardians 11

This match, against the side rooted at the foot of the league table, was one that Laurentians were expected to win, and win handsomely, and a re-shaped team did all that was asked of them, scoring eight tries and conceding just one.

Mark Palmer was called out of semi retirement for his first appearance in OL’s top side this season and looked like he had never been away, displaying all his skills at number 10 and scoring one of his side’s tries. He was able to capitalise on an abundance of possession and regularly launch a backline that ultimately had too much pace and power for their opponents. But Edwardians put on a spirited show and were clearly a better side than the one that conceded sixty points in a shortened game earlier in the season.

OL’s pack established a position of dominance by the break, regularly taking Edwardians line out ball and putting them under pressure at set scrums. But there was a tendency On OL’s part to force the game and to be over ambitious, when the simple option was often the best one.

Matt Miller set the ball rolling with a try wide out as OL’s got into gear with eight minutes gone. But Edwardians countered just five minutes later, levelling the score with a try by Lancaster after an OL’s clearing kick had been charged down. The visitors held all OL’s best efforts for the next ten minutes, and claimed their share of possession. But after a prolonged period of attacking play and five successive phases, OL’s pressure told and Palmer went over in the corner to restore their lead at 10-5.

After a decisive break by Iain Wallis was carried on by brother Ted, Dave Longrigg took the scoring pass to dot down OL’s third score as the half hour approached, before Eds got three points back with a penalty from Coulson. But OL’s response came quickly, hooker Mark Todd supporting an attack to sprint over for his side’s fourth try. OL’s were making life difficult for kicker Ben Wiles by touching down wide out, so limiting their lead at half time to just 20-8.

Eds started the second half brightly and for the first twenty five minutes limited OL’s to one score, after ten minutes, when Palmer slipped a short, flat pass to Iain Wallis cutting in on the angle, the centre slicing open Eds defence to go over. Wiles converted for 27-8.

Coulson fired over another penalty for Eds to reduce the deficit after twenty five minutes, before several phases of Laurentian attack were finished by Iain Wallis for his second try, Palmer taking over the kicking duties to add the extra points for a 34-11 lead.

Mark Todd put the seal on another personal performance of all round action to claim his second touchdown, followed shortly by replacement Simon Bayliss, whose pace was too much for a tiring defence as he went over from thirty metres for the final try. Palmer converted both to complete the scoring.

The win meant that OL’s held on to third place in the league table. But this Saturday they face their toughest test yet, when travelling to play leaders Sutton Coldfield in a match which could well define the outcome of their season. They face a number of injury worries, the latest being to number eight Carl Adams, a key player in the drive for promotion.

Old Coventrians 3rds 10 – Old Laurentian 3rds 33

In what was his last appearance of the season in OL’s colours, Jody Roderick signed off triumphantly with a hat trick of tries from the wing to see his side home against their Coventry rivals.

Having won the toss, OL’s skipper Birch elected to take the deep end of a pitch that had clearly suffered the ravages of winter! His side started at a furious pace, and with the forwards winning a plentiful supply of quick ball and Daz Price pulling the strings from fly half it wasn't long before Jody Roderick claimed the first score.

 

This set the pattern for the game and with the front row of Parkinson, Chambers and Reeve dominating the scrum and the salmon like Middleton controlling the lineout, OL’s scores came at regular intervals. Roderick claimed his second and stalwarts Dougherty and Hammond went over for one apiece, all converted by the ever reliable boot of Price.

The second half saw OL’s make some changes in personnel, with Kev White moving to 10 after Price discovered his long lost hamstring; and skipper Birch, having given his all in the second row, allowed the late arrivals a run out. The changes allowed OCs back into the game and they registered two unconverted tries before Roderick completed his hat trick to round off the scoring.

This was a fine performance from OL’s 3rds with everyone contributing, the highlight being the appearance of a second row in 'skins' and the irrepressible Hammond in the back row, whilst Price was at his majestic best at fly half and the dogged Stu Birch made his presence felt in the engine room

Old Laurentian Colts 26 – Rugby St Andrews Colts 10

Laurentian Colts started this game unbeaten since October, but were made to work hard to preserve that record by their local rivals, who came back strongly in the second half to make a real contest of it.

OL’s started with five subs on the bench but with several key personnel unavailable and it was a familiar face, and top try scorer, Danny Treharne who went over for the first OL’s try after four minutes play (5-0). St Andrews fought back strong and hard but never really threatened OL’s try line. Then Treharne managed to wriggle away from his tacklers to score again after twelve minutes, Dom Hammond slotting the conversion between the uprights for 12-0.

Saints looked a stronger side than the last time that these two met, but full back Chris Jones danced and swerved from the half way line to ground under the posts, Hammond converting for 19-0. Just before the half ended, Troy Owen winged his way through and Hammond again added the goal points for a half time lead of 26-0.

In the previous match between the sides, OL’s led 0-29 at half time and went on to win 0-48. This time, however, it was to be a different story as Saints fought back strongly in the second half to register two scores and shut OL’s out.

There was much movement on and off the bench as the Laurentian side was shuffled to give everyone a run out. Then twenty minutes into the second half, Saints’ Christian Enifer went over for a try to reduce the deficit to 26-5 Ten minutes later the visitors were rewarded again, this time from a short line out when they got over OL’s line for their second try, the one that turned out to be the last score in a hard fought encounter.
February 2nd

1st XV

2nd XV

3rd XV

Colts

OL's 33 - Stourbridge 24

OL's v Southam Cancelled
OL's 7 - Old Leams