Oxford’s first game of the New Year would see them playing away to historical rivals Faringdon with both teams well aware of what they were competing for in a top of the table clash…

Heavy rain and strong winds set the conditions with both teams going toe-to-toe in what would turn out to be a gruelling 80 minute dogfight. In typical Forward style fashion Will Boyes, aided by pack leader Ian Watkins, truck and trailered their way over Faringdon’s try line: 0 - 5 Oxford. Oxford were dominant in their defence but their discipline lacked in crucial parts of the pitch leading to a converted penalty from the Faringdon fly-half Nick Woodland: 3 - 5 Oxford.

In the second half Ian W bought Oxford some breathing space by securing the second try of the match in what was essentially a carbon copy of Oxford’s earlier score: 3 - 10 Oxford. In the fraught conditions Faringdon fought back earning a deserved try and closing the margin to 2 points: 8 - 10 Oxford.

Tensions ran high and beyond the borders of the pitch with a junior Faringdon spectator (and future prospect?) wanting in on the action - only to be firmly put in his place by Oxford no.6 Evan Jones… Oxford saw the remaining minutes out with the final whistle blowing at 8 - 10 and their lead at top of the table extended from 1 point to 4.

🖋 Quill’O’pen

•0-5 Oxford – 33 mins

•3-5 Oxford – 38 mins

•3-10 Oxford – 55 mins

•8-10 Oxford – 65 mins