Last Friday it was confirmed by the RFU that Slough and Chipping Norton, of the Oxon, Berks & Bucks Premiership, would both have twenty-five points a piece deducted following the two teams colluding, during a match in February, to agree a high scoring draw without the game being played. In addition the referee who oversaw to the teams making the aforementioned agreement has received a lengthy ban .

What this meant for Alchester was security that, barring any points reductions for the Blues, would keep there place in the league with the two teams involved in the match fixing joining Risborough and Wheatley below Alchester in the table. However, Alchester were adamant to cement there place in the league on merit and a win against Slough at Fritwell Playing Fields was what was required.

Alchester were penalised early on for coming off their feet at the ruck and Slough's number twelve slotted home from outside the twenty-two. Soon after Slough created sufficient space to allow their centre to strike an impressive drop goal from a similar position. Within the first ten minutes of the game, Alchester were able to respond being awarded a penalty five metres from the Slough try line that was quickly taken by fly half, Adam Thompson, who crashed over the line. (converted by Jack Briggs). The rest of the first half saw ill discipline cost Alchester a further three converted penalties and left the home team 15-7 down despite controlling set pieces and most of the open play. Before the half was out, Alchester's full back Robin Tyeman saw yellow for holding up the ball on the defensive line.

The second half started with Slough picking up a further three points and inside centre Adam White seeing yellow for a high tackle. Alchester responded well with captain, Matt Flegg, identifying a gap in the defensive line following strong inter passing between the Alchester backs and pick up a second try for the home team . Soon after Alchester pushed on again and prop forward, Luke Evans, picking up from the back of the ruck and pushing over the line. (Converted, Jack Briggs). Sean Cooke came on for the final twenty minutes and his strength made an immediate impact and he was able to cross the line soon after entering the field of play. . Alchester, with bonus point secured, scored a final try care of Adam Thompson.

Alchester have leapt to seventh in the league and will look forward to a final away day at Tadley next Saturday.

MOTM - Matt Flegg
DOTD - Adam 'the salmon' Thompson

NB - Matthew Beckley was not involved as he was receiving a medal from HRH Queen Elizabeth as they both celebrate their 90th birthday over the coming week.