The Oratory started strongly and raced into a 12-0 lead. An impressive finish from winger A. Hector was soon followed by R. Derbyshire's close range effort from the base of a driving maul. However, London Oratory responded well and, with the wind in their favour, were able to narrow the half-time score to 12-7. 

The second half was a more open game. London Oratory levelled up proceedings early on but had the momentum completely ripped away from them with The Oratory scoring three times in as many minutes. First, Monye showed excellent acceleration and footwork to race up under the posts from a quick tap before Hickling scored his fourth of the season from close range. Monye added his second straight from the restart. Excellent interplay along the backline released Hector who showed good composure to find Monye on the inside who dotted down under the posts again. Further tries from the impressive duo of Jackson and Wild, either side of a London Oratory consolation, ended the scoring to secure a 45-19 win for The Oratory and the retention of the Newman Cup.

Mikey Hennessy, Head of Oratory Rugby, says "It was a great occasion for everyone involved. The quality of the NextGen coverage was excellent and Grasshoppers RFC is a superb venue. We were confident coming into the game after recent wins over Shiplake College, Reading Blue Coat and Lord Wandsworth, but it was great to see the boys play so well."

The season continues next week with a half-term tour to Dublin to play rugby powerhouse, St. Michael's College.

Watch the full match and highlights here:

Full match: https://www.youtube.com/live/TPzvPzlAnwU?si=3uLseiIlnNWmFpoB

Highlights: https://youtu.be/2aXxdc_NZfw?si=fjwkatehae21I-X_

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