Facing a team two levels above in the latest Alliance Cup round, Casuals fielded a young side at Rushmills House on Wednesday night with plenty of vocal supporters there to witness what turned out to be one of the best performances for a number of seasons.

Starting typically slowly, Casuals faced a big, physical and pacey Daventry side who took an early lead through powerful incursions.

The home side dug in and fly half Fintan Renihan brought a moment of creative flair, chipping over the top of Daventry’s defensive line for Chez Okello to collect and score. It wasn’t long, however, before Daventry replied, scoring under the posts to put Casuals 5-12 down.

It was Renihan who got the home team back in the game, taking the opportunity for points when on offer and slotting two penalties with a calm composure beyond his 19-years.

Half Time 11-12

Casuals showed real grit and desire to stay in contention in the second half with dominant scrums and excellent support play.

Callum Timms charged over to put Casuals back in the lead much to the home crowd’s delight. But the next points were for the away team, with Daventry slotting a penalty to go just one point behind.

Casuals upped the tempo and brought renewed pressure with experienced back row James Gibbins leading the charge, and huge defensive efforts from Chez Okello frustrated Daventry’s attempts in attack.

Renihan’s commanding performance continued, with tactical kicking keeping Daventry pinned back and two further penalties secured to give Casuals a final winning score of 22-15.

Director of Rugby, Neil Haskins said: “Last night at Rushmills, I witnessed one of the best performances from a very young Northampton Casuals side in their Alliance Cup quarter-final against Daventry. They showed grit, determination and a fantastic defensive effort, with real tactical nous by winning 22-15. It was a real pleasure to watch and to see what this team is capable of.”

Man of the Match: Fintan Renihan

Northampton Casuals Rugby Club

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