An explosive start by Loughborough University and a hat-trick to Irish student international Kieran Collins before UWIC even handled the ball effectively sealed the win for the Midlanders in this SRL BUSA Championship semi-final at Gloucester.

UWIC’s role in the opening to the match was to kick off on three occasions only to observe Collins return the ball and score under the posts. Last week it took Collins 20 minutes to complete his hat trick. This week he did it in half that time. Three simple conversions from in front of the posts by Dave Budden meant that Loughborough were ahead 18-0 with just ten minutes played.

Fortunately, UWIC gathered themselves from the next kick off and defended much better. Sadly they still made little progress in attack due to a strong Loughborough defence. Unsurprisingly, the Midlanders were again the next team to score. McMahon, who was organising the Loughborough side well from hooker, was able to score two tries himself. Playmaker and scrum half Simon Kelly then crossed for the last Loughborough try of the first half.

To their great relief, a committed UWIC kick chase turned the ball over and stand off Alex Ballard was able to restore some Welsh pride. Ballard converted his own try.

A stunned UWIC lined up for the second half as Loughborough kicked off. Although the match was over as a contest, the Welsh students knew they must show the quality that had seem them go undefeated so far this season. UWIC Second row Gareth Davies burst through three big Loughborough defenders to reach out for a great solo try. Then from a tap penalty, full back James Thatcher set up the play for prop forward Pat Howell to barge over.

Loughborough quickly awoke from their slumber. Well worked tries from centre Lampe, prop Simon Perry and second row Steve Hall put the game out of UWIC's grasp. A flowing game followed with strong, confident attacking coming from both teams. Loughborough worked an excellent try for winger Nick Bolton while UWIC concluded the try feast as Howell scored his second under the post, converted by Ballard.

UWIC accepted their first defeat with good grace but departed baffled by the ‘ghost’ footwork of Keiran Collins that had ruined their season.

Loughborough realise their game must lift to another level if they are to be victorious in this week’s BUSA Championship final. Opponents Leeds Met have not conceded any points in three out of the last four halves of football that they have played. An enthralling prospect waits.

Article by Gerard Keenan
22 Mar 2006