Twice in this new year, Albanians have come from behind to record bonus-point victories and, although there is a distance to go in the campaign, this squad will enjoy the windfall whilst it is available. And wind there certainly was.

It’s not often a match is affected by weather as was this one but the strong Southerly breeze blew all afternoon and got stronger as time elapsed. It turned out Old Reds, who had first use of the elements, took little advantage from it and, indeed, all the points were scored at the same end.

At the end of the first quarter, and in an innocuous collision, OA lock Tim Bond suffered a serious leg injury and was stretchered from the field. All wish him a speedy recovery.

Shortly after, Reds fly-half Ashley Grove notched a penalty, which was the only thing to trouble the scorer in the first half.

However, Albanians had demonstrated decent lineout technique and, ominously for the visitors, a strong tight scrum.

After the interval matters favoured the hosts from start to finish as Morgan Thompson and Roddy Giles, a tenacious half-back combination used the gale for constant positional advantage.

Then the scrum took over and breached Red’s valiant defence no less than five times. A’s back row ensured ball which escaped the clutches of the outside defence was swiftly turned over and the backline was solid throughout.

Ethan Benson, Tom Webb, Ashley Illston, Nick Defeo (a token threequarter!) and Harry Samuel were awarded tries, Thompson improved four of them.

The seaside beckons next week and it will be the club’s first foray to Bournemouth. Kickoff time to be confirmed.

Andy Millard,

Digital Marketing