Ampthill travelled to old friends Caldy looking to back up last weeks win against Nottingham at home.
The game kicked off with fine drizzle coming down and the usual swift breeze blowing across The Paton Field. Caldy were to dominate the early exchanges, a third minute penalty opening the scoring before a well-executed line out move extended their lead to 8-0 after ten.
A penalty try on 29 minutes for pulling down the maul gave Caldy a 15 point and numerical advantage after a yellow card for XXX (not sure)
The next score would be crucial and it went to the Mob just before half time. The Ampthill pack controlled a scrum in the hosts 22 before Charlie Bracken sniped around to score in the corner. Conversion missed but 15 v 5 at oranges.
Ampthill came out firing for the second half and playing with the wind took less than a minute to reduce the Caldy lead to 3 points, Rhys Marshall scoring for the second consecutive game under the posts, Louie Johnson converting.
From the restart Tino Mapapalangi charged through the host defence making territory and when awarded a penalty at the breakdown Louie Johnson fired the Mob level. Game on.
As Ampthill looked to take control of the game, the Ravers gained field position with some grat kicking into the wind and restored their lead through another driving maul scored by hooker Hearn. 22 v 15
Another immediate response from the Mob with a well worked try finished by Josh Hallett reduced the deficit to two points before Oran McNulty scored in the corner and a brilliant kick from the touchline game gave Ampthill a 22 v 27 lead with 20 minutes to play.
Caldy threw everything at the visitors in the final quarter but the Ampthill defence held firm allowing the Mob to claim back to back victories in the Championship.
Following the game, Head Coach Paul Turner said “Caldy is always a tough place to go, we recovered well after a poor first half and were deserved winners in the end”
The 1st XV are back at home next Saturday when they host league leaders, Ealing Trailfinders on The Olney Field. Kick-Off is 3pm. All members should have an email with a code for discounted tickets. Entry for Non-members is only £5 with an advance ticket. Standard prices will apply at the gate.
