The presence of the minis allied to the combined forces of the twos and threes, plus the Pulsars, at Cheshunt transcended the confines of rugby. For, as last year, it proved a very effective way
of honouring the memory of Bradley Knight - the Cheshunt player whose life was tragically cut short in a senseless murder in 2001.

The minis, and for this read the U7s and U8s, played Cheshunt by way of a curtain-raiser and were later deployed in a ' guard of honour' role as the senior teams took the stage.

The Pulsars took on a Cheshunt vets side and drew 12-12. The visitors led 12-0 at the break but Cheshunt rallied after the interval and it was honours even.

The combined twos and threes were found wanting as they succumbed 27-17 to Cheshunt in their friendly. On pitch in which the slope can make a big difference, a lethargic Ignatians paid dearly for a
slow start and, scarcely at the races, dropped off the pace by trailing 24-0 at the break.

The rally in the second period when it came was commendable. Tries by Andy Roper, Lewis White and Jake, allied to one conversion, saw Ignatians move within a converted score of Cheshunt's lead, until the hosts made the game safe by rifling over a penalty.

Spokesman Martin Baker said: "We were far too complacent in the first period and that explains why were well down on the scoreboard at the break.

"As regards the Man of the Match award it was shared jointly by Daroush Fayaz and Lewis White. They showed great determination and were an example to those around them."