Oundle’s development squad came visiting the Chicken Shack and demonstrated why they are flying high in the division.
From the outset, they were clinical in taking any chances that were on offer. Their first try came following a strip from an Ives attacker in midfield, followed by direct running and offloading.
A stolen lineout gave Oundle possession close to the line, the ball whipped wide for the winger to round the home defence for their second.
Whilst rocked on their heels, Ives never wilted and continually made inroads into the visitors’ defence. Some great handling saw them to the 22, at which point Oundle offended. Rees Burns took on the kicking duties for Ives’ first points.
Oundle then took control of the result, scoring three quick tries taking advantage of a tiring home defence.
From Ives’ kick off Oundle’s ambition got the better of them for once. Running under pressure from Ives defence, a loose pass went to ground. Mickey Drake swooped and gathered to run in from 40 metres, converted by Burns.
Half time 10-35
The third quarter of the game was evenly contested. Ives kept Oundle’s attack at bay, but could not convert their own chances. With ballast having been removed from Ives’ scrum at half time, the visitors began to get the upper hand at the set piece.
As the fourth quarter started, any hopes of a Bulls revival were snuffed out as Oundle scored two quick tries from turning over Ives set piece.
As the game drew to a close, Ives continued to press for forward and were finally rewarded as Paul Ashbridge crashed over from close range.
Oundle had the last word as a try on the final whistle was converted, the kicker having an immaculate 8 from eight from all corners.
DoR Duncan Williams was philosophical after the game. “We came up against a team that will not be long in this league, so to see the lads smiling and enjoying their post-match activities having never given up is a great reflection of the spirit at the club. We look forward to next week.”