The game started out with a frantic approach with both teams getting the “touch” out of the system! The second 20 more structure was applied with both sides having a more direct approach which paid dividends as play was able break beyond the gain line with some great support lines.

An unfortunate injury to Luke Ball who suffered a shoulder dislocation after a collision with Duane James.

Defence will be the main takeaway from Saturday with both teams showing that more work is needed in this area.

Offensively we look strong supporting play working well beyond the gain line and players taking ownership and responsibility to identify roles and execute some effective moves.

Individually some stand out performances from many players, Jordan looking very strong with the ball in hand in a broken field, Duane and Ez proving to be an effective ball carriers with the new streamline version of Alex Gabbidon looking a little sharper although his trash talk needs some work!

The younger players on the field displayed a greater level of maturity with Connor, Charlie, Harry and Keiran all looking at home in amongst the senior players.

Fitness looked pretty good for most players and those who have put the work in over the summer standing out.

Big thanks to Andy C for stepping in at the 11th hour to fill in at 9 and to Pete Evans for cooking a great post match feast

The hard yards start now with Abingdon and Henley coming up next week,

Hopefully training continue in the same vein this week after great attendance last Tuesday and Thursday with 50 players making the effort over the 2 nights