Calne RFC

Sat 25 Jan 2025

Calne

38 - 21

(HT 0-0)

Colerne

Calne

Colerne

Match Report: Calne RFC 38 – 21 Colerne RFC

Calne RFC put in a dominant performance to claim a 38-21 victory over Colerne in a fast-paced and physical contest. Despite two yellow cards in the second half, the home side showed attacking brilliance and defensive resilience to secure the win.

First Half
The game started with both sides battling for control, but it was Mark McAlonan (sponsored by Ferns Group) who broke the deadlock in the 19th minute, finishing off a well-worked move. Rhys Taylor (Sponsored by Rexel)  added the conversion to give Calne an early lead.

Building on their momentum, Oz Astbury (Sponsered by The Movement Clinc), making his return from injury, powered over the line at 26 minutes for his first try of the match. Taylor slotted the extras once again.

Calne remained in control, and at 31 minutes, McAlonan crossed for his second try, further extending the lead. However, Colerne responded just before the break, scoring a try to keep themselves in the contest.

Second Half
Colerne came out strong after halftime and managed to score again at 17 minutes, closing the gap. But Calne quickly regained momentum, with Marcus Turner (sponsored by WR Fitness Solutions) diving over for a crucial try in the 48th minute, converted once again by Rhys Taylor.

Just as Calne looked to be taking full control, they were dealt a setback when Marcus Turner was shown a yellow card in the 56th minute, reducing them to 14 men. However, even with a numerical disadvantage, the home side kept their foot on the gas, and Oz Astbury grabbed his second try at 23 minutes into the second half, continuing his fantastic return to action.

The game remained physical, and at 72 minutes, Kev received a yellow card, leaving Calne to see out the match short-handed. Colerne took advantage with a try at 39 minutes, but it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback. Calne had the final say with a late penalty try, sealing the 38-21 victory.

Final Thoughts
Despite time spent with 14 men, Calne’s attacking execution and defensive grit proved too much for Colerne. Oz Astbury was named Riches Roofing Man of the Match for his two-try performance, while Rhys Taylor was flawless from the tee, converting five tries and adding a penalty.

A brilliant all-round team effort and another important win for Calne RFC!