Sat 17^th November
Hinckley 3^rd XV 28 - Ampthill Extras 19  

Extras pipped. 

Yet again Ampthill thirds could not raise a side and the Extras stood in. This time it was a long trip to Hinckley. Running late the Extras pretty much got changed and started the game, and they started well. After only a few minutes Gavin Griffith barged his way over the try line after a tap penalty and a short pass from Liam Duffin.  

Seven nil down Hinckley new they had a game on their hands. They fought back well. Scoring a penalty and a try they recaptured the lead. With a strong set of backs Hinckley went on to score two further tries before half time. 

In the second half the Extras kept play a lot tighter. Forwards used themselves as human battering rams to try and wear down the Hinckley defence. Ampthill took control of the scrums and seemed to be play with far more conviction than in the first half. The reward for this effort came when Kevin Smith crossed the line for the Extras second try of the match. 

Hinckley hit back with their fourth try almost taking the game out of reach of the Extras. Down but by no means out the Extras battled on. After a series of scrums on the oppositions’ five-metre line, Ian Macgregor scored a try bouncing off two Hinckley defenders. Game on.  

With just five minutes to go the Extras were only four points down. Unable to convert their pressure into points the Extras were hit with another blow when Hinckley scored a further try. 

Hinckley would have increased their lead into double figures had it not been for the superb chase and tackle performed by the Extras ‘Ginger Winger’ Kevin Smith. 

The second half saw a great performance from all the Extras who fought hard throughout. Additional praise must go to Paul Olliman playing his first game for around four years. His silver head of hair was often seen charging down the midfield, a target many thought twice about tackling.  

Tries:          Gavin Griffith, Kevin Smith, Ian Macgregor

Cons:          Ian Macgregor