1st XV vs Kenilworth 26 October 2019 - Kenilworth 32 KC 7

KCs gave another good performance, albeit losing with a committed team performance. This against Kenilworth who beat KC three times last season, once on their way to winning the RFU Intermediate Cup at Twickenham.
Almost from the kick off KC put pressure on Kenilworth and made most of the going to spend the first 25 minutes in the Kenilworth half. KC forwards were working well to gain ground and both Ryan Tiene and Matt Parker came close; KC pressure gaining two penalties both with the conversions missed.
The first Kenilworth move of note yielded a converted try after twenty-five minutes. This score picked up the Kenilworth side and for a period put in good moves, KC replied through effective loose forward play with Scott Lovell and Tom Mayer prominent. As half time approached Kenilworth scored another try to take the score to 12-0.
Kenilworth began the second half with more pressure and from field position their backs ran in a converted try. KC kept their tempo up and their attacking play paid off when the forwards won the ball in mid field, Andy McLellan chipped the ball for Ryan Tiene to gather and quickly pass for Rhys Kay to make ground and score.
KC were controlling the ball in their 22 and took the wrong option, Kenilworth pounced and scored another try. KC came back strongly, with Scott Lovell feeding Morgan Maxwell who was stopped just short of the line.
With KC again looking dangerous with moves from both the forwards and backs, unfortunately against the run of play Kenilworth had an attack, shrugging off tackles, to score a converted try.
Due to the wet conditions it was a day for forward slog which they did manfully, mention must be made of the contributions by Tom Dalton, safe under high balls at full-back and Alex Thompson solid at scrum half.
In closing minutes further KC pressure provided a great run from Rob Phillips who came close as he attempted to pass the ball, another let off for Kenilworth.
What is good to see with this KC side that even with the score against them they play with real confidence and commitment, their positive spirit is there for all to witness.
Bob Davies