MAGNIFICENT Matt Rose was man-of-the-match as the resurgent Centaurs (3rd XV) bounced back from their one-point loss at Slough to beat visitors Hungerford 40-11 in Counties Two Tribute Berks, Bucks & Oxon Two South.

A fine team display led to a second success in three games for Jack Gaylor’s side, who overcame horrific conditions to climb to seventh in the table ahead of a trip to Thatcham on Saturday.

Despite the result it was Hungerford who took an eighth-minute lead via a penalty, the Mighty Cents hitting back as Robin Taylor powered over before Cameron George added the extras.

The visitors, however, nudged back in front with an unconverted score, only for Brad Killick to touch down and George to bisect the uprights again.

A second Hungerford penalty cut the deficit to 14-11, but tries from Rose and George – the latter making it four from four from the tee with two more successful kicks – had Rams 28-11 up at the interval.

Tilehurst Wrecking Crew Chris Kessell joined fellow Honours Cap Rose on the scoresheet two minutes into the second period, and while George’s perfect record ended, a sixth try scored by Will Rayner and added to by Theo Pett-Ridge sealed the deal on the hour mark.

Commenting on a fine victory amid the pouring rain, Gaylor began: “The first half was a good contest between both sides, with a lot of back and forth before we pulled away towards the break.

“We continued to play some good stuff in the second half, attempting to create opportunities out wide and through the middle, keeping a focus on playing rugby.

“Rosie was the standout performer across the park, he’s enjoying his time in the forwards and is proving a natural in the pack, while another standout performer in all our games so far this season, is Jack Williams.

“Sadly, he said his farewell for the season before setting off on his travels to Australia, but he has helped (captain) George (Green) in leading the Cents on and off the pitch.

“We wish him all the best on his travels and look forward to welcoming him home upon his return – just in time for pre-season!”