The StoneX Stadium hosted English rugby’s first ever triple headers as three of the top domestic competitions went head-to-head.
In a weekend of fireworks, the Elior Champ kick started the afternoon of rugby with the MOB welcoming Ealing Trailfinders to North London.
A’s came into this weekend off the back of tricky away loss at the Nick Newbold Stadium, but with plenty of players unavailable it would be a difficult test.
The MOB would start the fastest, Nathan Blackmore, coasting over under the posts on his debut, fly-half Raff Weston nailing the kick from infront of the sticks.
Ealing would respond minutes later, Reuben Bird-Tulloch, followed by a close range finish from visiting captain Mike Willemse would put the visitors ahead, 7-12.
Much had been said in the week about Ampthill’s fearless attacking style and this would be shown as the MOB retook the lead.
This time Ed Timpson continuing his fine scoring spree as he took the ball off the back of the breakdown before bundling over the line, Weston would convert.
A busy first half had seen both teams attempt to take control of the game saw the visitors ultimately come out on top.
Replacement Fionn Gibbons collecting and going over in the corner as the home side were unable to capitalise from a penalty advantage, Dan Jones adding the extras, 14-19.
Ampthill had held their own in the first half and at points were the better side, but it would be the visitors who would show their strength.
Two quick fire second half scores would extend Trailfinders lead to 31-14 as a second for Bird-Tulloch and a driving maul would put them three scores ahead.
Again the MOB would respond and this time in style, a breakaway from Toby Baker and offloads from Ollie Mullarkey, Tino Mapapalangi and Efan Jones would end up in Joe Heslop’s hands as he touched down.
A tricky afternoon for the hosts would be compounded as Ealing finished the match with a flurry of three tries.
The first coming from Hayden Hyde, followed by one for new signing Max Nagy and replacement Jordy Reid would cap off a strong performance for the visitors.
A successful day off the pitch for the MOB as we welcomed some of our age groups down to be part of this historic day at the StoneX.
Focus now turns back to away action with Worcester Warriors away next Sunday before it all eyes on Derby Day at Dillingham Park on the 21st November.
