ALL GOOD things must come to an end.
Following an incredible club record breaking run of 17 successive victories, Rams were finally beaten after being edged out by fellow promotion chasers Tonbridge Juddians.
Seb Reynolds’ men did at least pick up a losing bonus point in the 25-19 loss, with their lead at the top still a healthy 12 points with eight games to play.
“It was a very good performance from Tonbridge Juddians,” said Rams head coach Reynolds.
“They were highly motivated to stay in the hunt and played some good rugby. We weren’t quite at the races and this league is full of quality teams that want to perform week in, week out.
“We dropped our level and allowed a top side to take the spoils.
“However, I was proud of the way we got the bonus point at the end.”
Tribute match this weekend for Reading Rugby Club’s former coach Richard Jones
Third-placed Tonbridge dominated the early exchanges, but could only convert it into three points courtesy of a penalty as the Rams defence held firm.
The visitors could not get a foothold in the game and fell 8-0 down when a kick across the pitch was gathered by Murray Galbraith-Lowe to score in the corner, despite pressure from Conor Corrigan.
But after a yellow card for TJ Edwards, Rams responded to make their extra man count with Tom Vooght scoring in the corner following a slick pass from Ellis Jones. Tom Humberstone converted to reduce the arrears to a single point.
Reynolds’ charges continued their resurgence and got their noses in front when Ben Henderson crashed over.
A Tonbridge penalty just before half-time kept the game well in the balance with Rams leading 12-11 at the break.
The opening 20 minutes of the second half passed scoreless before the home side turned the tables again to go in front when Toby May scored under the posts.
Another try followed and while Corrigan pulled one back, it was too late to prevent the winning run from coming to an end.
Rams host Old Redcliffians on Saturday (2pm).
RAMS: Duffelen, Rossiter, Jones, A. Humberstone, Corrigan, Seers, Illingworth, Steadman, Henderson, Baker, Taylor, Thomson, Crame, Vooght, Guttridge.
Reps: Drew, McDonnell-Roberts, Nightingale, T. Humberstone, Lloyd.
