Witney's magnificent 11-match winning run was brought to an abrupt end with a 15-7 defeat at Maidenhead in South West 1 East on Saturday.

The loss leaves them fifth in the table, but victory on Saturday at Bletchley could see them leapfrog Swindon into fourth place.

Fly-half Steven Moir kicked Maidenhead’s points, while full back Matt Clarke touched down for Witney.

Witney started the stronger, with a powerful run from No 8 Charlie Bennett putting the hosts on the back foot.

And on five minutes, Henry Lamb had a chance to give the visitors a 3-0 lead, but against the wind his attempted penalty went wide of the posts.

Moments later, though Moir made no mistake with the boot.

Neither side threatened the try line and the hosts were restricted to Moir’s unsuccessful drop goal attempt from eight metres inside his own half.

ON SONG: Second row forward Charlie Bennett (centre) impressed for Witney in their disappointing defeat at Maidenhead which ended their 11-match winning run in South West 1 East on Saturday Picture: Steve Wheeler.

However, on 27 minutes Witney began to make some progress.

Several rucks saw them edge closer to the try line, but Maidenhead’s defence held up well and Witney missed their opportunity after conceding a penalty.

The hosts used the wind to their advantage to move within ten metres of the line and Moir kicked another penalty for 6-0 as the first half came to a close.

Moir’s boot continued to do the damage as the fly half landed a further two scores for a 12-0 lead after 52 minutes.

Carter helps her club to eighth in nationals However, Witney won a line-out on Maidenhead’s 22 and worked the ball to full back Clarke who touched down.

Lamb added the extras.

Witney pushed for a further try, but ill-discipline cost them dear as a punch-up resulted in Gareth Campbell being sent to the sin-bin and a red card for Maidenhead’s Mark Childerhouse.

Moir kicked another penalty to secure a 15-7 win.

This Saturday, Witney wrap up their campaign away to Bletchley.

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