HARRY Bicknell’s second hat-trick of the season and a dominant first-half performance helped Rams Under 23s beat Oxford University Greyhounds 43-7.
On a misty and atmospheric evening under the Old Bath Road floodlights, the hosts roared out of the blocks.
And Bicknell benefitted from an early display of power with the hooker mauling over in the left-hand corner.
George Tomlinson was unable to add the extras, and the fly-half was then sadly forced off with a knock to the knee.
Rams were not fazed however, and another strong set-piece allowed Arthur Garfield to send Alec Formela across the whitewash.
With the pack well on top, the hosts moved further ahead as No. 8 Darren Bold picked from the base of a five-metre scrum to blast over.
Gethin Svenson-Davies added the extras, and enjoyed a strong performance as replacement stand-off.
The Berkshire boys really turned the screw with two more tries in rapid order.
Firstly, they hammered away at the line before Bicknell burrowed over from close range, Svenson-Davies landing for 24-0.
And the backs then got in on the act as some swift handling set-up Jack Mapletoft for a second try in as many weeks.
Bicknell completed his treble with the final play of the opening stanza, a repeat effort of his first except the maul ended on the right.
Leading 36-0 at the break, the hosts rang the changes with the impressive Mikey Duda and Garfield making way along with Theo Pett-Ridge.
Honours even after the interval
But it did little to stem the flow as following a spell of pressure Andrich Skein smashed his way over.
Svenson-Davies was on target again, but the gutsy Greyhounds ensured those would be the final home points of the night.
And they deservedly got off the mark midway through the final quarter as a pin-point cross-field kick was collected by Tom Perrott for a nice score.
A brilliant touchline conversion followed, but while both teams had chances for a late flourish, neither could add to their tallies.
The Under 23s have two confirmed festive fixtures at home to Cambridge 1923s on Wednesday December 16, and Lambs U23s on Monday 21.
They also hope to arrange fixtures with Rosslyn Park and Richmond.
Next up at Old Bath Road is the 1st XV’s return to National One action against Leeds Tykes on Saturday (3pm).
For discounted tickets, book here before midnight tonight (Friday).
