OBs followed up the away 9 – 15 win against Drybrook back in November with a six try win against the second placed team to remain top of Gloucester Premier.

Gareth Graham opened the scoring with a push over try on five minutes as OBs started brightly. The forwards were in dominant mood and Wayne Cockram soon forced his way over from another five metre scrum. Debutant Duncan Knox adding the conversion.

Drybrook hit back with a couple of penalties, several rolling mauls and mainly looked to play rugby in the OBs half. Another fine defensive display ensured OBs did not concede a try, with flanker Matt Douglas leading by example.

OBs had several excellent breaks up field, with Michael Jones and Dan Evans making telling breaks, with second rows Craig Jones and Mike Barton often finding themselves in supporting roles. However, OBs couldn’t convert these opportunities into a try before half time. Drybrook did concede a penalty, and fly half Duncan Knox converted.

Half time score 15 – 6

The first ten minutes of the second half saw OBs secure the try bonus point. Blind side flanker Wayne Cockram spun out of several tackles to claim his second of the day and Duncan Knox added the conversion.

The pressure continued and winger Michael Jones weaved his way over to secure the try bonus point.

OBs continued to play attacking rugby, and with scrum half Tom Sellers directing play and Duncan Knox playing on the gain line, the supporting runners made big inroads into Drybrook territory.

Pressure at the back of a ruck five metres from the Drybrook line led to a charge down by Nick Reed and Craig Jones was first to react to dot down for the try. Again, Duncan Knox added the conversion.

Drybrook fought back and found themselves in the OBs 22. Some resolute defence, including centre Tom Westray holding up a man over the line, ensured the pressure was absorbed without conceding a point.

OBs continued to play attacking rugby, and soon found themselves in the Drybrook 22, and after a quick tap penalty, Tom Sellers popper to Matt Douglas to force his way over for a well deserved try. Duncan Knox added the conversion to round off an impressive debut.

OBs did miss several golden opportunities to score further tries throughout the game, but were pleased to secure a try bonus point win over Drybrook who played rugby for the full 80 minutes. The defence again was probably the most pleasing aspect of the day.

Skipper Mike Barton was equally pleased with the win as he was with the new playing shirts he had ordered.

Final score: 41 - 6

OBs have the Robbie Memorial Day this coming Saturday, which promises to be a wonderful club day, with two exhibition rugby games, hog roast, bar, disco and of course plenty of fund raising for Clic Sargent

OBs next match is away to Frampton Cotterell on the 10th March.