Westcombe Park 3s enjoyed a memorable afternoon in the spring sunshine as they recorded a 105–0 victory over Beccehamian 3s in a rearranged fixture, delivering a performance built on patience, control, and no shortage of attacking fluency.
Conditions were ideal for rugby and Combe took full advantage, fielding a strong and well-organised side that applied consistent pressure throughout. There was also the welcome return of skipper Oliver Harding, named on the bench after a long injury lay-off and originally pencilled in for a cautious 20-minute outing.
From the outset, Combe showed clear intent. Three tries inside the opening seven minutes set the tone, with the Jack's coming to the fore. Winger Jack Wilkinson crossing twice and prop Jack Woodhouse powering over from close range, all converted by Jacob Ingold. The early scores were the product of sharp execution rather than haste, with Combe focusing on territory, structure, and discipline.
What followed, much to coach Shane Reid's delight, was one of the most cohesive 3s performances of the season. Combe kept play in the right areas, built phases sensibly and supported one another well, allowing the attack to flow without forcing opportunities. The shape and structure remained intact as the half wore on, reflecting visible improvements in how the side now manages possession.
Beccehamian, for their part, continued to work hard defensively despite being under sustained pressure, and their effort did not waver. However, Combe made their possession count. Harding made an early impact after entering the fray, his planned cameo quietly expanding as the game progressed. He scored twice before the break, as did scrum-half and match-day skipper Tom Hodgkinson, and full-back Joe Birch, while Wilkinson completed a well-taken first-half hat-trick. By the interval, Combe led 70–0.
The second half followed a similar pattern. Beccehamian continued to contest bravely and deserve credit for staying committed throughout, but we were able to maintain tempo and accuracy. Harding went on to complete a hat-trick, his “20 minutes” ultimately stretching to a full 73, while Birch also secured three tries of his own. Wilkinson added a fourth, Harry Cowie crossed, and there was a particularly well-received moment late on as Nial Chandler marked full time with his first try in Combe colours.
Jacob Ingold was deservedly named man of the match, completing a flawless afternoon from the tee with 15 successful conversions.
While the final score was emphatic, the greater satisfaction came from the manner of the performance. Combe remained composed, accurate and respectful throughout, and were quick to acknowledge an opposition who continued to compete from first whistle to last. With recent memories of being on the receiving end of a heavy scoreline themselves, Combe will know how important that effort was.
Attention now turns to the final game of the season, with a top-of-the-table clash against Southwark Lancers next week. Kick-off is at 1pm on the first-team pitch, ahead of the 1s hosting Oxford Harlequins at 3pm. Support would be most welcome for what promises to be a fitting end to the campaign and a great day of rugby for the whole club.