Leamington are left with a mountain to climb after first-half Buzzard blank

Playing uphill and against a breeze, Spa had to defend from the outset against the Midlands Two East (South) leaders, with Patrick Northover alleviating early pressure with a couple of well- judged kicks to touch.

Eight minutes in, the hosts took the lead via a quick tap penalty, which created room for their number eight to cross.

Spa had a brief foray into opposition territory when winger Ryan Byrne took possession of a Northover kick and raced infield, supported by Tom Daplyn.

However, with the try line begging, Spa over-complicated matters and the chance was gone.

This proved to be the visitors’ best opportunity of the half as Leighton Buzzard continued to boss possession and territory, eventually turning their dominance into points with two furher tries and a 17-0 interval lead.

Spa reshuffled the team for the second period and this produced a much-improved performance.

Marcus Pask made an immediate impact with a couple of charges downfield to put Spa in the home 22.

The momentum was eventually lost as a Leighton Buzzard interception took play into Spa’s 22 and despite desperate defending from Craig Smith and Jamie Harrison, the hosts scored a converted try.

Spa responded with their first points as Daplyn’s smart handling allowed debutant Jamie Harrison to touch down in the corner.

Further reward came with a try for Matt Timlin after good work from Chris Dickinson and Tom Greevy.

Spa continued to be good value in the second period but will be disappointed that lapses in defence cost them two further scores.

 Leamington under-15s made a bright start to the season at Moorefields. Leamington conceded an early try before fighting back to secure a 38-10 win against Barkers Butts.