Combe pushed league leaders Richmond all the way in an enthralling encounter at The Athletic Ground, but had to settle for second best at the final whistle 13-6. True the weather was atrocious, including the drenching in the second half, so it was not a day for thrilling or entertaining rugby, but the crowd was kept on tenterhooks right to the finish. The uncommitted could be forgiven for wondering which side was top of the league and which was at the bottom.

The first half was played mostly between the two 22’s. It was also peppered with penalty awards. Neither side was able to spread the ball fast and wide. Not a day to be playing on the wing. It was competitive at the breakdown and both sides tackled with commitment and effect. Combe had the first chance for points after ten minutes when Ryan Fuller slotted over from wide out on the left. Richmond’s reply came ten minutes after with Tom Platt opening the scoring for the home team. (3-3). Richmond were getting the upper hand at scrum time, but could not get their backs going, as Combe were quick to close them down and cramp their style. Another penalty chance for Richmond on 25 minutes was put over by Platt for 6-3. The half finished with Richmond pressing close to the line but conceding a penalty to offer the visitors relief.

The second half started with the weather closing in, the floodlights on, and more penalties. Ryan Fuller was short and wide with his long range attempt four minutes in, but two minutes later had a closer effort which he put over to bring the scores level.( 6-6 ). Richmond set up driving mauls from the lineout, and made inroads, which began to threaten the Combe line. They had the ball from under the posts, threw high and wide to the left and winger James Greenwood was over for a try in the corner. Platt also squeezed the conversion over. 13-6 to the home side. Twenty minutes to go. The weather got worse. Combe built up an attacking position with Jamie Stevenson directing operations, and marshalling his resources, but they were unable to force a score. Into the last five minutes Richmond had a penalty chance at goal which Platt pushed right. A final penalty attempt was not taken. Richmond had their win, Combe had their losing bonus point, and it was time to return to the warm and dry.

Combe XV : Fuller; Purdy, Davies, Hough, Leeper; Braithwaite, Stevenson; McKinnell, Barton, Bellinger, Wright, Clarke, Blomfield, Lindfield, West.
Subs.: Conlon, Brierley, Deaville, Hockedy, Edwards.

Next Saturday, at Goddington Dene, is the re-arranged fixture against Hartpury College, kick-off 2.00 pm. There is also Six Nations action to watch in the clubhouse afterwards.

Match reporter: Bruce Mackenzie.