Garner believes Luton FC having a losing mentality

Luton prop Tom Garner believes Luton have a losing mentality as his side were defeated 33-15 by Olney at the Newlands on Saturday.
Chris Davies in action for Luton - pic: Nicole HoganChris Davies in action for Luton - pic: Nicole Hogan
Chris Davies in action for Luton - pic: Nicole Hogan

The hosts dropped down to eighth in Midlands Two East South, as they now head into their final four games of the season.

Olney started the day two places and 15 points ahead of Luton, but the early exchanges suggested that hosts might get the better of their opponents.

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As usual, the home team started off well as winger Chris Davies, after a clinical run through the Olney ranks, gave his side the first five points of the game while full back David Hamm slotted his conversion.

Olney quickly hit back bringing the scores level in the 19th minute - but Hamm scored a penalty moments later putting his side ahead once more.

The away team’s quick feet placed them at an advantage as Luton, who were holding them for the first 30 minutes started to tire.

A lineout close to Luton’s try line followed by a maul granted Olney a converted try just before the break as the hosts started to lose focus.

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Another Olney try as the half-time whistle blew saw the visitors move 19-10 in front.

After the break Luton once again started attacking Olney, challenging deep within the away half as they came close to getting in front with a try but the ball just drifted into touch.

Centre Jake Hobbs’ sprint and try brought Luton to within four points of the travelling team.

However, Olney took full advantage of Luton’s defensive flaws and fatigue as the home side saw their chances of victory evaporate with two more converted tries in quick succession as the game came to an end.

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First team manager Steve Evans believes the team’s morale has been affected as he said: “When they do get a disappointment or a poor decision or what is perceived to be a poor decision, you can almost see their heads drop, and that’s really difficult.”

Meanwhile, Garner added that mindset is what is holding Luton back from victory, saying: “We lose games in the head before we are even out there.

“Technically and physically, we are not worse than any other team in this league.”

Luton are without a game this weekend before they travel to Oundle on March 25.