Very well done lads! That’s the message from parents and coaches alike after Sunday’s visit to Old Caterhamians – a visit and a game which showed just how well (and how cohesively) this group can play. All the work on the training pitch, all the drills, and all the work we have been doing together bore fruit on Sunday morning; after a tough but scrappy first half, the Chipstead team found their gears, accelerated away from the opposition, and played rugby that was just too good, too fluid and too intense for them to live with. To score 28 unanswered points in the second half was not flattering – it was just desserts.

There are still some things that we have to work on – phases 3, 4 and beyond lost their shape and impact a little bit, there were times when we didn’t attack the gain line aggressively enough, we need to pay some more attention to our lineouts, and our defensive line work can still be better … but let’s look at what went well: unloading in contact; recycling quickly; close-in runners making yards and breaks followed by good handling moving the ball wide; excellent scrummaging; super continuity between forwards and backs; a few outstanding hits; some good ball for them stolen by us; good game sense and game management to put us in the right areas; individuals and groups of players thinking smart, doing their jobs properly and supporting each other … the list goes on.

But above all, probably the most impressive (and exciting) facet of the game on Sunday was the positive team ethic that clearly coursed through the team during the game. You could see it, sense it, feel it from the touchline.

We are certainly going to play some tougher games than Old Cats this season, but make no mistake, the team spirit and the enthusiasm that every player showed on Sunday brings something extra to this team. It is something that all sides look for but not all sides find. It is genuine, collective team character … and it was a pleasure to witness.

Let’s not forget that we were missing 5 Surrey, 1 unavailable and 4 injured players as well – it will be interesting to see how they all make an impression this week. Places to play for with the League games approaching!

Nice new stash as well – thanks to our sponsors again!

Nick and Andy