Rugby Union
Wellings leads the way for OLs

Old Leamingtonians 48 Cheltenham North 12

OLs turned on the style to run in eight tries against Midlands Three West (South) visitors Cheltenham North who had no answer to the fast stylish open play served up by the home side.

OLs, playing into a stiff breeze, brought their speedy backs into play whenever possible.

After a number of quick forward surges the ball was played out to winger Liam Wellings who crossed the line to score his first of four tries.

It was pretty much one-way traffic as Cheltenham found themselves under constant pressure from an OLs side displaying excellent handling and ball control skills.

The ball was thrown along the threequarter line from side to side and it was opposite winger David Canning who scored the second try inside the opening ten minutes.

Cheltenham responded with an unconverted try which spurred OLs into applying greater pressure.

With the forwards winning good ball in the loose to free up the speedy backs it was only a matter of time before the lead was increased and in some style.

Strong forward pressure saw captain Jason Healey cross the line before winger Liam Wellings added two more well taken tries following interchanges between the backs, one of which saw him come from his wing position to carve through the centre field and touch down between the posts.

Mark Foley kicked three conversions to provide OLs with a comfortable 31-5 half time lead.

OLs continued to dominate after the interval and the visitors spent the majority of the game on defensive duties.

The home forwards dominated the exchanges and with the ball being moved around the field at speed it was no surprise when Wellings scored his fourth, and arguably best, try of the game.

Taking the ball outside the 22 metre area he burst through four tackles to dive over in the corner.

The next score came from the now rampant forwards with Dan Careless touching down bear the posts following a series of good rucks. Foley added the conversion.

OLs remained on top and Canning scored try number eight following another surging break from his backs.

The ball handling throughout the match by Old Leams had been first rate with a large crowd of supporters being well entertained by an all round display of team rugby.

Not to be totally outdone, Cheltenham did manage a late converted from their outstanding inside centre .

OLs visit high-flying Evesham this Saturday (2.15pm).

Dan Careless touches down at The Crofts on Saturday. (s)

Jason Healey on his way to scoring a try. (s)

Flying winger Liam Wellings helped himself to four tries. (s)

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