Windy win over Witney – by Hugo Austin

After the first loss of the season the previous weekend Tows were looking to put that behind them and get back to winning ways.

Tows started at pace, going close and almost getting the perfect start, only to be stopped on the line. The dominant start paid off later on as second row Kieran Frost stretched over the line, Falvey converted well.

Playing into the strong wind Tows’ offloading and link up play looked to have the measure of Witney, Craig Holton finished off a move from a robust rolling maul.

Towards the end of the half Tows’ habit of giving away penalties was letting Witney into the game, this was highlighted by a converted try on half time.

It was a lot more even in the second half as both teams had their positives and their negatives, Tows’ scrum for example crumbling under pressure and Witney’s line out failing to function. A steal from the line out resulted in a strong run down the wing from Pepe Nanci who popped left to Falvey who crossed the white wash and also converted.

Clarke then scored a fine individual try, as the visitors were enjoying their best period of the game, keeping possession well and attacking with good intensity, but the Tows defence stood strong with Kieran Frost at the fore.

Tows’ versatile defensive display earned them a try from Matt Bodily which also gave them the bonus point. Falvey’s kick hitting the post.

Witney had the last word as Tows gave away another cheap penalty. Plenty of positives to take from this one for Tows however the ongoing problem with discipline will be at the back of the player’s minds.

Tows colts came back from a 38 point deficit to lose 38-22 against the Bedford Blues academy side. Everyone sending their best wishes to Alex Parker, Tows Colts fly half who suffered a fractured skull in last week’s game. Saracens sending him a signed get well soon shirt.