So finally, after a series of friendlies - against Old Whitgifitians (twice) and Old Reigatians (once) - and after various schools related postponements and rescheduling, the Exiles played their first League match of the season.

Away to Guildfordians at London Road, the hosts were coming off the back of a 17-12 win against Wimbledon so they already had league momentum going into the game.

However, as the Exiles were playing down the hill with the sun in our backs (and therefore in the opposition’s eyes), in theory Chipstead had all the advantages as both teams took their positions for the first half. Theory and practice however don’t always conspire to align.

With pace in their backline and forwards willing to put in a shift, Guildfordians contrived to make life difficult and Chipstead were made to work hard to contain the host's attack and break down their defence.

Eventually the opportunity came just after the quarter and Chipstead went over for an unconverted try (0-5). With topography in our favour this should have been the cue to open up and add to the score line. However it was Guildfordians who levelled; and then went past Chipstead, with a converted try in the dying minutes of the half (7-5).

So at half time Chipstead were faced with chasing the game and playing uphill with the sun in our eyes. We do like to make things difficult at times.

If we have learnt anything though over the years with this squad it is that they relish a challenge. Chipstead collected the kick off and pressed the Guildfordians' defence, crossing the gain line on enough occasions with quick ball to create the opportunity - after only two minute play - to score another unconverted try (7-10). In a repeat of the first-half’s tit for tat however Guildfordians then replied and, chasing a kick from deep in their own half (offside?), set up a series of plays that eventually led to their second try; this time unconverted (12-10). The build-up may have been suspect, however the final execution was just reward for the host’s attacking effort.

So Chipstead were, again, chasing the game. However the final quarter saw the Exiles step up a gear. Throughout the match the Chipstead defence had been robust and it was the Exiles’ dogged like terrier defence that set the platform for the squad to push forward. After 22 minutes, pressure was converted, literally, to points as the Exiles scored in the corner (12-17) and then in the last minute of the game we went over again to secure the win (12-22).

With our next league match against Dorking this coming Sunday at the Meads there is definitely still scope for improvement in certain key areas (and these were discussed with the squad after the game). However a bonus point win is a great start to the League season and sets a platform from which to progress. Well done to all squad players, every one of whom contributed to this win.

And finally, and as is the custom, many thanks to the referee, and also to the Guildfordians’ coach Richard and his coaching team; and particular thanks to the Guildfordians’ squad for the competition. We wish you the very best of luck for the match against Esher next Sunday and for the rest of the season.