Luton lose to top of the class Eton

For Luton this was their fourth away defeat of the campaign as Eton's top try scorer, Michael Eghan decisive try proved the difference in this exceptionally competitive contest.

Eton got off to a superb start. Only minutes into the game the home side were awarded a penalty try. Rick Horton sent the easiest of conversions between the posts.

Slowly growing in stature and confidence, Luton began to find some rhythm. Methodically building on good possession Luton passed the ball until it was picked up by Johnny Wright who ducked for the try line. Rick Hobbs faced a long range conversion and successfully put Luton back on level terms to make the score 7-7.

In the 30th minute, against the run of play a knock on was chased down by Hobbs who flamboyantly touched down for Luton's second try. Hobbs following up with a conversion to nudge Luton into 7-14 lead.

As the rain began to fall, Manor wasted no time narrowing Luton's lead as Harry Tustanowsky replied just four minutes later. However, Horton could not add the conversion and Luton went into the break 14-12 ahead.

The early in the second half Luton lost second row Craig South to injury. In his place, hooker Ryan Sheppard made his presence felt and jumped straight into the action. Tensions began to boil over as slippery conditions resulted in more physical contest.

Another injury blow saw Sean Meddeman's afternoon end early . Luton's attacking positioning left them exposed at the back and that resulted in a counter attack. The speedy Michael Eghan broke loose to secure the win for his team despite the efforts of Luton captain Tom Mahendren. With the score at 17-14, Horton stepped up to put the result beyond doubt but his effort was sent wide. The final score ended Luton 14-17 Eton Manor.

Forward's coach Darren Moore applauded Luton for their performance and hopes the team can continue to showcase that intensity when playing away from home.

"Probably our best first team performance of the season. Everyone gave 100 per cent and showed real commitment. There was real wilfulness to work for each other. We can't fault our boys. They really gave it a good go and it came down to one try at the end".
"We said in the huddle after the game our season starts from here. Its hard with a small squad because when you have injuries the players have to dig deep and play out of position but hopefully we can move forward."

Debutant Tyrone Ashton was ecstatic to finally receive a call up to the first team and Moore praised the winger's contribution to the game. He added: "He's been very close to a call up for a long while and deserved his chance. He didn't let anyone down, a really solid performance".

The 27 year old has represented Luton since the age of 14 and hopes to bring some pace and power to the team. "I've been with the club since 2002. I started with the under 14's and made my way up through the youth teams. I'm very pleased to make my debut, I've waited a long time. (Director of Rugby) Paul told me I would get my chance a while back and I had been looking forward to it ever since then."

Luton next host Brentwood at Newlands Road after a weekend break on the 5th December 2014.

Match Reporter
Farhan Daw