OEs Director of Rugby was delighted with the performances of the 1st XV and Extras 1sts who beat Richmond, 33-5, and Old Colfeians, 52-14, respectively in front of a large crowd at College Meadow.

“A lot of players put their hands up for selection with their performances on Saturday,” Lach said. “I thought the Extras looked very sharp, especially with the ball in hand against a strong Colfeians side, and I was very pleased with the 1st team victory over what was a very good Richmond side.

“The majority of that Richmond side had featured in the British and Irish Cup or in the 1st XV at times last season, so we knew it was going to be an extremely difficult match. We had to be patient and wear them down, but in the end I thought we came out worthy winners.

“Looking back at the video of the game this week, our defence, especially in the first half, was absolutely superb. In fact I would say it was better than any defensive performance we produced last season and I include the Sale victory in that.

“We looked organised and calm; everyone knew what they were doing and there was never any panic which happened on occasions last season. So we have definitely stepped up a level in that respect.”

However, Lach is under no illusion about the size of the challenge facing his squad this season, and is refusing to get carried away. “We are definitely not the finished product and there is a long, long way to go,” he said.

“Sometimes we forget this is still a relatively new, young side and we can't expect things to happen overnight. Sides take three or four years to evolve and develop into their full potential and people need to be aware of that. We have come a very long way in a very short space of time and we are still evolving. I am very pleased where we are at the moment and we will continue to build and progress.

“Now, myself and the coaches have to sit down this week and attempt to pick two 20-man squads for the first league games on September 2nd which is going to be easier said than done. It's not a task I'm particularly looking forward to because there are going to be a lot of close calls.”