The 1st XV’s last encounter with Brighton was back in April 2018. Having come down from level 5 this season, Brighton have made a strong start. It was going to be a tough encounter for OCs.
A cold and wet afternoon started with some early kicking exchanges, each team trying to gain a territorial advantage in tough ball-playing conditions. It was Brighton, however, who made their way onto the score board first as their 10 danced through a disjointed defensive line. Extras were added and the 1st XV found themselves 0-7 down.
It didn’t take long for OCs to respond. A good scrum in Brighton’s half led to front foot ball for the backs. Quick hands from Griffiths put Storey through a gap, leading to a Johnson try the very next phase. 5-7.
With the game being played in the middle third for the next few minutes, it was OCs who won the penalty. A stunted driving maul turned the ball over and Brighton had a scrum on their 5 metre line. A backs’ training ground moved followed, with Brighton running the length and dotting down under the sticks. Extras added again. 5-14.
Again the tide turned and after some great exits into the wind, OCs were on the charge. Some good phase play in Brighton’s 22 led to FHO getting over the whitewash. Burkett added the extras. 12-14 at HT.
The start of the second half was dominated by exchanges in the middle third. OCs had the wind behind them for the second 40 and was planning use it to their advantage. It was OCs who gained some good field position and the resulting phases led to Mutongwizo getting the 1st XV’s third score of the afternoon. 17-14.
Brighton fought back and scored two tries in quick succession, putting themselves in a commanding position at 17-28. A late OCs score secured the 1st XV 2 bonus points. A disappointing yet encouraging result against the league leaders.
22-28 FT.
