A combined Towcestrians first and second XV added the Lewis Shield to their impressive haul of trophies this season with a hard fought victory over a full strength Bletchley side, under the lights of Franklins Gardens on Tuesday night.
Bletchley started well, their huge pack causing problems, contesting every breakdown, forcing Tows to give away two penalties which were despatched for a 0 - 6 Bletchley lead, Towcestrains found their running style midway through the half putting phases together, quick hands saw the ball move out to the wing where Alex Chalcraft crashed over for the first try of what would be a memorable night for the Tows Winger, converted by Scott Browne, Tows had the lead 7 - 6, another infringement saw them go behind again from a long range penalty by Bletchley, before more good work from the forwards released the space which was exploited by fast hands to Chalcroft for a carbon copy finish of his first try again converted from the touchline by Browne for a 14 - 9 lead, Bletchley threw everything at the Tows and again picked up another kickable penalty which was slotted, a tiring Bletchley pack started to fall of tackles, making holes and allowing space for Thorne Gladwin to cross to stretch the lead to 19 - 12 at half time.
Tows started the second half in dominating fashion but dogged defence held them out, half way through the half the coaches rang the changes and made substitutions, this gave renewed impetus to Tows who again through great phase play exploited gaps for Chalcraft to go in for his-trick, unconverted to move 12 points clear, Bletchley again came back at Tows and an infringement by Nicky Blackham saw him take a 10 minute rest in the bin, closely followed by Tyler Aris for a similar offence, down to 6 forwards and with Bletchley battering the line the Tows showed why they are Champions of both 1st XV and 2nd XV Leagues, great determination to not let the opposition score eventually led to the excellent Eugene Baxter turning the ball over and Tows clearing their lines.
A penalty by Browne extended the lead before Bletchley finally crossed for a well worked try, there was one final opportunity for Tows and it was Chalcraft again who crossed for his fourth try, converted by Browne for a 34 - 19 victory.
The Final League game of the Season for the 1st XV is at Greens Norton Road this Saturday and is sure to be well attended as the strong home support get a chance to cheer on the Champions.