Bletchley produced a dominant forward display to claim a 24–10 home victory over Oxford at Manor Fields, securing a valuable bonus-point win in front of a strong crowd and VP buffet lunch gathering. The result also completed a season double over Oxford, following Bletchley’s earlier win away earlier in the campaign.

The hosts made their intent clear early on through a powerful set-piece performance. At 12 minutes, a well-executed driving maul from the lineout allowed hooker Tom Perkins to peel off the back and ground the ball for the opening try, giving Bletchley a 5–0 lead.

The forward pack continued to apply pressure, and at 22 minutes, after a series of hard pick-and-go phases, prop Aaron Fitzgerald powered over the line to extend the advantage to 10–0. Outside centre Elliott Hales, stepping in as kicker with the regular goal-kicker unavailable, converted at 23 minutes to make it 12–0.

Bletchley struck again shortly afterwards. At 25 minutes, a powerful break from captain and number 8 Hugo Govett split the Oxford defence before he offloaded to scrum half Jack Sharp, who sprinted down the 15-metre channel to finish the move. Hales added the conversion at 26 minutes, pushing the lead out to 19–0, which remained the half-time score.

Oxford came out strongly after the interval and managed to get themselves on the scoreboard. They crossed for tries at 43 minutes and 48 minutes, but both conversion attempts were missed, reducing the deficit to 19–10.

Bletchley regained control as the second half progressed. At 62 minutes, another dominant lineout and driving maul saw Perkins claim his second try of the afternoon, grounding once again at the back of the pack to extend the lead to 24–10.

Despite a late push from Oxford, Bletchley’s defence remained solid, with the forward pack continuing to dominate both the scrum and lineout platforms throughout the match.

There were several standout individual performances. Fly half Jake Allen delivered an outstanding all-round display, combining intelligent playmaking with relentless defence and powerful line breaks that repeatedly put Bletchley on the front foot.

Archie Barrett was tireless across the pitch, contributing heavily in both attack and defence, while Hales performed superbly in stepping up to kicking duties and adding composure in the backline.

A special mention also goes to winger Reece Bryson, who made his 1st XV debut and impressed with his work rate and commitment. Whilst Bryson was shown a yellow card for an accidental high tackle on the last defender, he otherwise contributed well in difficult moments.

The Bletchley pack were the platform for much of the afternoon’s success, with their dominant scrum and lineout creating the opportunities that led to two of the side’s tries.

In solid conditions and with a strong crowd backing them, Bletchley produced a controlled and disciplined performance to secure a crucial five league points and continue their momentum.

Next Up
Bletchley travel to Gosford All Blacks on Saturday 21st March for their next fixture in Counties 1 Tribute Ale Southern North.