MATCH REPORT: HORDE HAULED BACK AS WINDSOR TAKE SPOILS

AN excellent first-half display was not enough for The Horde as they were narrowly beaten 14-10 by Windsor 3rd XV at Old Bath Road.

It was a second consecutive narrow reverse in the Thames Valley Invitation League, the home side having fallen 22-21 at Reading Rhinos in their first outing of the season.

Things began well for The Horde on Saturday as they took the lead with a nice finish out wide from full back Steve Casey, albeit the conversion effort from Ryan Sollitt ended off target.

However, the lead was doubled before the break as another member of the back three, wing Paul Steele, made his way over for another score near the touchline, giving his side a 10-0 advantage at the break.

Windsor struck back with a converted try to reduce the deficit to three points, but RAMS continued to be well and truly in the contest, Chris Kessell often running strongly from fly-half.

However, it was the away side who hit the front with their second seven-pointer, and despite the Horde having opportunities to snatch victory – they were held up over the line towards the end – they could not fashion a winning score.

The Horde now have a lengthy break before their next league game, with the side due to visit Egham Hollowegians on Saturday, December 17.

However, there is a mouth-watering Senior game this Friday when the Dragon’s Teeth head to Reading 3rd XV for a floodlit fixture at Holme Park (7.45pm).

The DTs are currently top of Counties Three Tribute Berks, Bucks & Oxon South with a perfect three wins from three, but their opponents will hope to kick-start their campaign with a derby success.