Kings 50 Sutton & Epsom 7

This was club rugby Barbarian style. A pre-season consisting of 40 minutes before kick off, 2 débutants and a number of players who hadn't seen each other for quite a few months.
But, we have quality, and quality players can and should adapt to what is thrown at them. Some of these boys are becoming seriously big and powerful, and there's no shortage of endeavour.


We played some beautiful rugby. Rampant forwards off loading, and then the ball spun wide to stretch the defence. It was fun to watch, and it was fun to play. Mide's finishing is breath taking. Three tries from distance, he was a constant threat. If he'd been at Twickenham, 82,000 would have been on their feet every time he touched it.
I was particularly impressed with the makeshift back-line, with new boy Daniel having a fabulous debut.


Up front we were abrasive, and managed to keep our focus despite some unsavoury provocation in and around the ruck. The best way to handle that is to ensure you smash their players to the ground around the breakdown zone. A player flat on his back is unlikely to stamp on anyone. Oh, and remind them of the score occasionally.


Macca was as imposing as ever, Nicky won some great turn over ball, and Fergus at prop was a feisty and determined part of a dominant pack. All of the forwards deserve a pat on the pack for a job well done. A few too many penalties conceded, so let's make an effort to get the ball away from the body, and the first guys in smash away any opponent who has the potential to steal the turnover.


It was good to see some real humour and banter between the boys. This is club rugby at its best. For those that weren't available today, you missed out on some real fun. This club rugby is a good release from school pressures, so make sure you get the school work done, and then have some downtime with a good bunch of lads on a Sunday.


Man of the match.
Rob Parker. All the P's. Power, Pace, Precision. Phenomenal. Well done.