REDINGENSIANS Rams were held to a 7-7 draw at basement boys Exmouth in a National Two South game blighted by horrendous weather conditions.

The visitors played against the wind in the opening half, with gusts so strong an airborne ball would be blown back towards their own try line.

It meant the Reading men had to keep the ball in hand and they played a rough-and-ready, ruck-centred attack in which Samir Kharbouch, Ben Henderson and Robbie Stapley made sure to assert Rams’ territory.

However, the visitors did not find as many opportunities to assert their place on the scoreboard, and despite Rams keeping a good amount of possession and keeping play closed down with rallies of rucks deep in Exmouth territory, the home side exceeded themselves with solid defence and tackles audible from the clubhouse.

Chico U’Chong ran in Rams’ only try after 30 minutes, and successfully converted by Sam Guttridge, Rams rightfully led the game with a half-time score line of 7-0.

The second half, while more optimistic weather-wise, was far less impressive in rugby play. At times, both sides gave the impression they were playing a game dictated by fumbles and improvisation rather than any sense of higher tactics.

Rams had a harder time gaining possession and, as a result, had to rely on the defensive prowess of Phil Hoy, Stapley and Sean Mcdonnell-Roberts.

Exmouth, who had appeared almost hesitant in attack earlier in the game, began hitting the visitors’ defence with real momentum, support and duration.

Although the Reading men maintained their lead, this appeared less convincing as the game went on. Rams had overtly outclassed Exmouth in the opening half but approached the second as less hungry, assertive and confident.

A converted Exmouth try in the 79th minute levelled the score at 7-7.

Rams made a quick rally and were awarded a penalty within kicking distance for the final play of the game, but failed to retake the lead.

Redingensians host Barnes this Saturday (2.30pm).

l READING Abbey return from a week off in search of a fourth consecutive South West One East victory at Royal Wootton Bassett on Saturday (3pm).

Tenth-placed Reading travel to the side one place below them in the table, Swindon (3pm).

l BERKSHIRE Shire Hall will look to bounce back from their heavy defeat at Chipping Norton two weeks ago, with Faringdon visiting Sonning Lane on Saturday.