Sat 29 Nov 2025, 14:30
Reading Abbey II 30 Shire Hall 7
For the second week running, Shire were able to field a full side with a stacked bench. There were debuts for Andrew Ryan and the Bullen twins, Louis and Brandon. Conditions were much better than last week, but Shire did have to contend with bright sunshine in the first half. Shire started brightly enough but it soon became apparent that it was going to be difficult against a well-drilled Reading Abbey side who had not had the best of starts to the league programme. Shire struggled to get into the Reading Abbey half due to some ferocious tackling and quick counter rucking. Two tries came in the first 15 minutes for Reading Abbey due to slick handling and powerful running. They further extended their lead after 30 minutes, but it did not feel like that the game was over as a contest. All 3 Reading Abbey tries were unconverted as the kicker seemed to have left his boots at home. Finally, Shire were able to make inroads into the Reading Abbey half with strong runs by Ollie Homan-Green and Ed Gallen especially but Shire were guilty of taking the ball standing still from the base of rucks which made for easy targets for the Reading Abbey defence. One of these strong robust challenges saw Jamie Pedder forced to leave the field and he was replaced by Rory Mears. In contrast Reading Abbey’s recycling of the ball from rucks was very quick and as a result much space was created. It should be noted that Shire’s tackling in defence was generally excellent. Being only 15-0 down at half time looked like a good score to attack in the second half.
Half Time Score: Reading Abbey II 15 Shire Hall 0
At half time, Shire replaced Dan Smedley, Tom Overend and veteran Sam Watkins with Billy Wigley, Ollie Kidson and Jason Tunkhume. Reading Abbey continued their dominance with some strong runs from their No.8 in particular and two quick tries extended their lead. Still no conversions though! Another try but no conversion put Reading Abbey 30 points in the lead on the hour but suddenly, Shire sparked into life led by Matt Margot’s determination to get something out of the game. Jonny Parry was forced to leave the field with an injured shoulder and was replaced by Matt Brazier. Shire pressed the Reading Abbey line hard, and they forced to make desperate attempts to keep us out. Unfortunately, they lost two players to yellow cards for cynical acts, denying us the ball at rucks. It was a powerful run by Ollie Homan-Green that created the space for Matt Margot to record his 90th try for the club. Billy Wigley added the extra points but Shire were unable to add further points in the last plays of the game.
It has been a disappointing month for Shire. At the beginning of October, we were top of the league but after 4 consecutive defeats, we are now languishing in 9th position. Next week, we visit Wallingford for the first time in 15 years. They were thumped by Aldermaston this weekend who we thumped in October. It could be an interesting game, especially as we already have 24 players available. Selection will be exciting!
Final Score: Reading Abbey II 30 Shire Hall 7
Tries: Matt Margot
Conversion: Billy Wigley
MOTM: Matt Margot – epitomised the spirit of the team.
DOTD: Dave Tridgell – atrocious cross kick!
