So, we are now 2 months into our brand-new academy season and the Vipers have been showing exactly what they are all about. On Wednesday last week, we hosted another established college at Volac Park, Easton & Otley College, from Norwich.
We knew that this would be our strongest test so far and so it proved for the opening minutes, with Easton dominating possession and territory to cruise into a 2 try lead. However, if this group of young men from the Vipers Academy have one thing in abundance, it is resilience, and they fought back hard to get themselves on the score sheet with 15 minutes gone.
From here on in it became a scrappy game with neither side able to string many phases together or really create any opportunities. Defences were on top before either attack could get going but the Vipers were starting to find ways to score. They scored twice to put themselves in front before half time.
After some strong words at half time from head coach, Ben Penfold, the Vipers came out firing and quickly scored their 4th and 5th tries. While the game was still not much more of a spectacle, with several mistakes from both sides, the Vipers were finding ways to score and ultimately a way to win without playing their best rugby; surely a good sign moving forwards.
The best spell of play was saved until last with both sides putting one more try each on the board but for Easton it was to be too little too late as the Vipers marched on to their 3rd win of the league season, 36 – 19, maintaining a 100% record to top the league.
Next up is a tough test away to Hills Road, followed a couple of weeks later by Kimberley College at home on 4th December at 2pm. We would welcome any support for the boys.
