OBB Colts Division 1 - 1st XV
Once again Windsor fielded a young 1st XV squad for this Oxon, Bucks & Berks Division 1 fixture, away to Bracknell RFC.
Having already beaten Bracknell just 3-weeks ago in a tight game in the 1st round of the National U18s Cup, this Windsor squad knew the opposition would come at Windsor from the get-go with their bigger pack, and overall more aggressive match play. Bracknell did not disappoint in that regard, and were looking for revenge. Following 10 mins of constant pressure Windsor succumbed to a Bracknell try, unconverted, however, Windsor absorbed further pressure and then with a flowing attack, fed the ball to centre Lucas Garcia Hayes who danced his way through for an excellent try, converted by Ben Mongey, to take a slim 5-7 lead against the run of play. Bracknell continued their attacks, which led to a 3-point penalty, and then they forced their way over the Windsor try-line for a converted score, and a 15-7 lead, 25 mins into the contest. However, this Windsor team did what they’ve done all season, they regrouped, and went on the attack, which after a number of phases, led to a powerful drive and a Gabe McIntyre try, again converted by Mongey. Half time came, and Windsor had clawed their way back into contention with just a 1 point deficit at 15-14. This was turning into another titanic contest.

Windsor made a few changes around the break, and went into the 2nd half determined to take advantage of the slope. Four mins into the 2nd period and Randy Karize drove over for a great forwards try, once again converted, and Windsor had the lead 15-21. In another tightly contested game, Bracknell soon hit back, and nudged ahead with their 3rd try, and led this league game 22-21. Time was now slipping away, but the resilience shown by this band of brothers opened up the back line, and James Warnell cantered away for another one of his great tries, and with the conversion out wide, flawlessly converted by Ben Mongey, another 7 pts added to the Windsor scoreline, and at 22-28 winning score to defend for the final 4 mins. Windsor defended like their lives depended on it, and the final whistle came as a relief, but also a signal for celebration. Five consecutive wins in 6 weeks, maximum points in the OBB Division 1 league to top the table with Reading RAMs. Happy days!

OBB Colts Division 3 - Extra XV
This was our first outing with an Extra XV squad, and they travelled to Bracknell with 17 players, knowing Bracknell would have the numbers and of course, their renowned more physical presence. A tough ask for these boys, some of them playing their first competitive game in Windsor colours. Against a partisan crowd, and one could argue referee, Windsor were up agains it, but put on a strong & committed performance, running in 4 tries from debutant Rokas Daujotas, Calum Murphy. Toby Flood and Gene Fiddy to secure a try bonus point, one of them converted by Max Oakley.

Unfortunately, under constant pressure from Bracknell, the home team registered 7 tries, and a convincing 43-22 win
However, this was a performance the Extra XV squad can be immensely proud of. With soon to be returning players, this Colts squad will build from strength to strength, and should consider this day the catalyst for a recovering position in OBB Division 3.

After 5 weeks of club games, alongside a busy school rugby fixture list, Windsor Colts now enter a well earned R&R week, before refocusing on the National U18s Cup, and the visit of Rosslyn Park on 17-Nov.

Jason Stone WINDSOR RFC Colts Manager