Royal Wootton Bassett 19 - 14 Marlborough
On Saturday, Marlborough were away to Royal Wootton Bassett, who the previous week had suffered their first loss of the season, much to their annoyance. Marlborough were hoping that they could add to the tally.
It was a frustrating game for an injury ridden Marlborough side and Bassett were a well drilled and coached side. Within ten minutes, Marlborough had lost their Captain, Koto (Epeli kotobalavu), this time it was due to a serious ankle injury.
RWB scored two tries which were both converted (14 – 0) following some defensive errors by Marlborough. Thankfully, Nado (Manasa Cakau) scored a very nice try just before half time.
The half-time score was RWB 14 – Marlborough 7.
During Marlborough’s training sessions in the week, Coaches Elisi Vunipola and Fa’ao Filise had targeted the Marlborough scrum as a major weapon, but throughout the game, although massively dominated upfront, we got very little given in the way of penalties. Marlborough were finally awarded a penalty try halfway through the second half. The game was now very much in the balance at 14-14. RWB scored their winning try with just about the last play of the match following a confusing scrum penalty conceded by Marlborough. Final score RWB 19 – Marlborough 14.
There are always positives to take away; there were three new players to the squad, Daniel Jones, Tui (Ovini Tuitoga) and Kane Marafono and all three played very well and fitted into the team, so very encouraging going forward. On the less encouraging side, there are more injuries to add to our ever-growing list; Koto’s ankle with him having only just returned from a broken arm and Ben Brownhall who suffered a dislocated shoulder. Marlborough’s Christmas wish is for there to be no more injuries and for those who have been on the side lines to be back fighting fit in January. So, if the big man is listening, can you see what you can do please?
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