The Actonians 2nd team travelled to Northolt for their first match of the season, with the sun out, the temperature hitting 25 degrees, it was a baptism of fire for the numerous debutants. Having “warmed up” and prepared well under assistant coach Jamie Ganley, Actonians were caught short as it was Northolt that scored the early opening try, capitalising on a couple of missed tackles. Actonians hit straight back with Huw Atkin punching a big hole in midfield, sprinting 30 metres, jogging another 20 before being dragged down in the opposition 22, but the support was there for Ben Glover to touch down for the score. Northolt increased their lead with a well taken try down the left wing, and another pick and go from close in, Peter Wall responding for Actonians to see the sides head for half time with one score separating them.
The second half saw a more intelligent performance from the A’s, improved ball retention and decision making under pressure bringing the points. Huw Atkin was rewarded for a hard afternoon’s work, putting in another big carry to squeeze in for a try on the left touchline, then Alex Millar picking and going for a 0.5m try to bring Actonians back within a sniff of victory with 10 minutes to go. With both sides melting in the heat, Actonians probed the ruck defence in search of tired tackles, retaining ball for phase after phase until Paddy Heekin twisted and barrelled over the line for the decisive score. Final score 24-27.