Three Wins, Plenty to Build On
Last Saturday’s 26–19 victory against Bracknell secured another valuable five league points and continued our winning start. It was pleasing to come through a competitive game, with plenty to build on.
We have demonstrated how dangerous we can be with ball in hand, particularly when we generate ruck speeds of two to three seconds. Since week one of pre-season, we have spent a huge amount of time on the detail around the tackle and breakdown. Our ruck speed was not consistently where we wanted it last Saturday. Credit to Bracknell, whose work in the tackle slowed our ball. Executing those skills more accurately and consistently will help us turn more opportunities into tries.
Our error rate rose to 43%, compared with 32% at Wimbledon. Greater accuracy will help us convert more of the opportunities we’re creating. We also conceded 11 penalties, up from six, mostly around the breakdown. Returning to our benchmark of eight or fewer will help us control games and sustain pressure.
Our challenge is to bring intensity, accuracy and discipline consistently for 80 minutes, with our bench bringing fresh energy and driving our processes.
Our 2nd XV had a cracking away win against Canterbury 2nd XV, putting them top of Counties 1 Kent. Our first win away to their 2s in several years is a result the players and staff can be proud of.
A huge thank you to our medical team: Harry Holder, Head of Medical Services, Dr Rob, Ant, Ste, Abi, Dan, Jade and Amber. Their work caring for the squad and getting players back on the pitch is hugely appreciated. I think I speak to Harry more in a week than I do my wife!
We hope you’re enjoying Inside the Oaks, getting to know the players and hearing their reflections and weekend previews. Thank you to Reporter Jon, who’s behind the camera asking the questions!
We’re expecting a tough match against Farnham today. The challenge is to build on our winning start, and we know the level of performance required.
Thank you to our supporters, sponsors and everyone getting behind the Oaks. Your backing and noise at the Paddock make a real difference.
Enjoy the match, and come on you Oaks!
Adam Bowman
Director of Rugby
