Longlevens RFC

Longlevens returned to Longford Lane for the first time since 10th January after a run of weather disruptions, and they marked the occasion in style with a superb attacking performance to defeat Royal Wootton Bassett 64–31.

The Griffins made a flying start, racing into a 12–0 lead inside the opening 10 minutes with two well-taken tries. The first came from a flowing move that saw the ball pass through several pairs of hands before Matt Fatica finished in the corner, the first of what would become a hat-trick. Soon after, Steve Phillips powered over from close range with a strong push-over try to give Longlevens early control.

Royal Wootton Bassett responded well and showed their attacking quality with a try to get back into the contest, but Longlevens quickly took control and effectively put the game to bed with four unanswered tries. Jed Holman-Jones crashed over with a typically powerful run, before Jake Fox showed electric pace to out-sprint the defence. Matt Smith then added his name to the scoresheet with an excellent piece of footwork to step through the line, and Joe Weatherley rounded off the first-half scoring for the Griffins. Royal Wootton Bassett had the final say of the half with a try of their own, but Longlevens went into the break firmly in control at 38–14.

The second half began in similar fashion, with Alfie Turner producing one of the moments of the match, diving to catch the ball on the line and score a superb try. Royal Wootton Bassett continued to battle and replied with another score to reduce the deficit to 43–19, but Matt Fatica soon crossed for his second try of the afternoon.

To their credit, Royal Wootton Bassett never stopped attacking and secured their bonus-point try, but Longlevens continued to find another gear. Fatica completed his hat-trick with another well-taken score, and Matt Smith added his second with a trademark run that saw him weave around and through multiple defenders to touch down.

Royal Wootton Bassett had the final word with a late try, underlining their determination and attacking threat throughout the match, but it was Longlevens who celebrated a dominant 64–31 victory on their long-awaited return to Longford Lane.

It was an impressive attacking display from the Griffins, who showed pace, power and creativity across the park in an entertaining encounter and made a memorable return to home soil.