They claimed a comfortable bonus-point win over promotion rivals Didcot at Cricket Field Grove to strengthen their title bid.

The win leaves Karl Roberts’ Crows in second place in the table and two points behind Risborough after eight matches.

And they have also pulled four point clear of Didcot in third thanks to Saturday’s latest success.

On a wet and sodden pitch, Crowthorne needed to adapt their game plan to the wintery conditions against opposition with strong title ambitions themselves.

They did it by playing 15-man rugby that carved open Didcot resulting in an early try for the home side.

A slick move and assured running saw Crows skipper Sam Short grab the touchdown for a 5-0 lead.

Didcot replied immediately when they kicked a penalty after Crows were deemed offside by Buckinghamshire referee Ian Jones.

But Roberts’ men ended the first half well on top thanks to a well worked try from Dougie Charman.

It was clear Didcot’s game plan was based around their forwards and driving downfield.

But their best efforts hit a Crowthorne brick wall and a superb line of defence.

The Crows defence was breached one more time when they were driven back over their line from five meters out resulting in a Didcot pushover try.

Roberts’ men remained patient, even though a number of attacks were either turned over or knocked on.

And their rewards came with a third try from Dan Stanton who was industrious throughout the afternoon.

Roberts’ men were not finished there and they topped off another fine victory with a fourth score to secure the bonus point.

Matt Elsbry stole a Didcot lineout on the half way line and quick ball moved through several hands before reaching full back Tom Wilson as he hit the line hard as the extra man.

Wilson showed tremendous skill to flick the ball up off the deck with his boot 35 metres out before sidestepping his way to the Didcot line.

It was a fitting finish to an impressive Crows performance that suggests Roberts’ side will be challenging for the title come the end of the season.

Forward of the match was James Delacki with Tom Wilson claiming the backs’ prize.

Crows can now enjoy a rest week before returning to action on December 6 and derby at local rivals Berkshire Shire Hall.