Berks/Bucks & Oxon Premier.

Swindon College Old Boys 10 Stow 26.

THERE was all to play for in this game as the winners would go clear at the top of the league – and it was Stow who made it seven wins out of seven this season.

In very trying conditions, Stow took control early on and were soon six points up thanks to two Nick Cafearo penalties.

Swindon rallied but a stolen line-out ball by Stow in their own 22 secured possession. Brilliant play from the forwards and backs saw play move the full length of the field where Louis Chapman picked up and drove over the line.

The home side were still very much in the game but it was Stow who seemed able to dictate the play. Swindon were penalised and Stow moved up to the 22; a scrum was won with the ball being shipped blind to George Roddan, who scored in the corner.

Just before the break Swindon kicked a penalty but Stow held a healthy interval lead at 16-3.

The second half saw Swindon start well but as conditions worsened flowing rugby became difficult. Stow held firm, then worked their way back upfield.

A scrum wide on the right was won, with winger James Holmes breaking through to score close to the posts and Cafearo converted.

Swindon hit back and from some sustained pressure a quick tap penalty resulted in a converted try in the corner. From the restart, Swindon were penalised, some back chat resulted in another 10 metres, and Cafearo kicked a third penalty.

The last few minutes were played in near darkness and Stow nearly took a try bonus point when they stole possession close to the Swindon line, only for the home side to hold out.