First-half barrage powers College’s victory

HARTPURY once again took five points, but coaches and supporters alike were left disappointed by an underwhelming display and a disjointed second half. Cambridge, in contrast, will be encouraged by their showing against the champions-elect.

In a match frequently punctuated by referee Michael Hudson’s whistle, Hartpury raced into an early lead. However indiscipline, poor decisionmaking and the return of defensive failings saw them surrender the initiative.

It took only three minutes for centre Steve Leonard to put winger Jonas Mikalcius clear. Skipper Rhys Oakley was next to cross before Jake Polledri got the final touch to a lineout drive.

Cambridge hit back with two quickfire tries, a good period of pressure finished by winger Michael Ayrton before Albert Portsmouth gobbled up an interception. Hartpury reasserted their superiority when Ben Vellacott touched down at the back of another drive and Levi Davis finished after Polledri and Joe Dancer made inroads. Leonard scored after a long-range breakout and it seemed as though Hartpury would pull away.

Tom Trotter broke free to score for Cambridge just before the break before Luke Eves finished well for Hartpury on 42 minutes. But that was it from Hartpury, as Cambridge shone with Thomas Nutley, Louis Rawlings and Wade Schoeman all scoring.