The first outing of the “B” team this season produced some commendable individual performances and a very satisfactory end result for the team, made more so by the torrential rain that fell throughout most of the tournament.

It was a league system, playing against five other teams and simply whoever ended up with the most points won. Blissfully simple for a Sunday morning (compare this to some of other formulations that would not look out of place in some PhD maths thesis).

Our campaign opened with a thrilling 4-4 draw with Sutton and Epsom followed by another (er!) thrilling 2-2 draw with Cobham. Both were tight affairs and we had several opportunities to clinch victory. With the table delicately poised we then faced our nemesis – the red and white clad “semi-pros” from Rosslyn Park – a close fought and high scoring match ended in a narrow defeat to Rosslyn Park, 7 to 5.

Picking ourselves up from that defeat, we bounced right back and, with no signs of grace or favour, trashed our hosts, Chobham 2-1. With Cobham running away with the league table (in fact beating everyone else except Wimbledon), there was not much left to play for in the final match against Effingham & Leatherhead – which is why we possibly rolled over rather weakly to give E&L their first victory of the tournament (2-1).

In summary, we were victorious in one match, drew two and lost two but our margins of defeat were only one try against Cobham and two tries against Rosslyn Park. We finished third ahead of Chobham, Effingham & Leatherhead and Sutton & Epsom and were three points behind Rosslyn Park in second place and five points behind Cobham who were overall winners. With some more work on our tagging, getting the defensively line set quickly and support play we should be able to do better at future tournaments.

All the boys got stuck in with great gusto (despite the conditions) and the team spirit and effort was outstanding. Charlie Howe – with four tries – was player of the day closely pipping Jeremy Toussaint (five tries). Tries were also scored by Sachin Shah, Ralph Simmons and Billy Mardon. Some great tagging from Elliott Fair, whilst Sam Cooper, Ben Corbett, Clement Toussaint and Sean Platts are all worth mentioning for their efforts. No photos I am afraid because the weather was so awful!

Thanks to the parents for their assistance and support.

Richard Mardon / Adam Cooper.