A fine two-try display from Maids’ shy and retiring Aussie scrum-half Tim Callaghan helped them claim a satisfying 29-15 victory at home to Alchester 2nds and keep close on the heels of second-placed Buckingham.

A bright start from the home side was rewarded with an early penalty from Dave Goodman. Prop Myke Parrott extended the lead with a converted try soon after, but Alchester hit back with a penalty and try to trail by only two points at the break.

The home pack performed well throughout and were particularly dominant in the lineout, but some powerful ball carrying from winger Rob Davey was most responsible for putting Maids on the front foot after the break.

They effectively put the game out of Alchester’s reach in a 20-minute purple patch in which Callaghan grabbed his two converted tries and winger Aaron Lambert dived over in the corner after some slick handling along the back line.