Albanians trailed throughout this weather blighted tie but were well in touch with their lively opponents until almost the hour mark. Played on the hosts 4G training facility and with wind speed and direction only a minor consideration much of the early play was yet nondescript; yet this did not stop TJs taking an early lead When Duncan Tout found a gap after seven minutes, giving Sam Evans the easiest of conversions.

With fifteen minutes played prolific marksman Sam Jones put OAs on the scoreboard with a penalty. Evans converted Charlie Self’s effort as the half drew to a close but Lewis Jones crossed for the visitors moments later and his centre namesake made no mistake with the kick, reducing the margin to just four points.

Five tries graced an otherwise lack-lustre second half and the three notched by TJs put their lead beyond reach. Tout managed his second and later forays from Ryan Taylor-Dennehy and Truman Sullivan ensured the bonus point. Kennedy Sylvester and Alex Ricci both crossed in the fourth quarter but the match was closed out by a final penalty from Tom White.

Training has been interrupted by the weather of late and it would be surprising if there not some slight unsettling effect on the squad. However all components for success are still plainly in evidence and can be exercised next weekend when top-o-the-heap Esher come to pay their respects.

Brian Quinn,

Roving Reporter