RAMS Centaurs enjoyed Friday Night Lights delight as they overcame Slough 48-14 at Old Bath Road, a sixth win in seven Counties Two Tribute Berks, Bucks & Oxon South games lifting Jack Gaylor’s side to third in the table.

Having been beaten 20-19 by their opponents earlier in the campaign, the hosts made a blistering start as man-of-the-match Will Rayner raced in from 60 metres following good work from stand-in skipper Matt Rose, Cam George adding the extras.

Slough hit back with an unconverted try, but their opponents responded through John Snoddon and Dan Bennett, another George conversion making it 19-7 early in the second quarter.

A second seven-pointer for the visitors reduced the arrears, but Tom David landed a penalty before the break and then crossed the whitewash a minute into the second period, George on target for 29-14.

Joe Newton’s converted score at the start of the final quarter effectively put the game to bed, and further gloss was added to the final scoreline as Bennett doubled up and Brad Killick also dotted down.

Victory leaves Rams four points adrift of second-placed Marlow 2nd XV with a game in hand, the two sides having three and two games left to play respectively.

With his in-form side next due to play Thatcham on Saturday as Marlow head to unbeaten champions Henley 2nd XV, Gaylor was in a positive mood while remaining focused on the task at hand.

He said: “The runners-up spot is up for grabs and it’s in our hands, but we have some tough games ahead.

“Slough was a big one for the team with them beating us in the earlier fixture, but the lads turned up ready to go and it showed with the hot start.

“Credit to Slough who did well in the first half, some ill-discipline from us allowed them territory and they took their chances – their No. 10 has always had a good boot, and we have been at the mercy of it on multiple occasions before.

“However, in the second half we really turned it on, and the subs came on as we stepped it up a gear.

“We got two yellow cards, but stuck together and got the all-important win and bonus point.”

Highlighting two stand-out performances, Jack added: “Star man again was Will, as normal he was a beast in attack, but he really stepped up in defence as well.

“And Rosie was also superb as matchday captain, showing great leadership throughout.”