It is an understatement to say that Croydon RFC were desperately awaiting for their first game of the season; especially on their home ground following promotion to the Surrey 3 League as a strong Surrey 4 champion. Croydon RFC, coached by the mighty Louis Allen, were ready to gauge themselves in this new league and to set their expectation for the season ahead. Pre-season saw new players joining the team and ended with two encouraging friendly matches against teams in higher leagues which provided a competitive challenge.

The first game of the season saw Croydon RFC up against Guildfordians RFC who were ready to take matters into their own hands quickly by outrunning Croydon RFC and stretching their lines. As always, Croydon RFC did not give up and showed courage and resilience by scoring two tries during the game. The powerful No.8, Billy Simons, picked up the ball behind a scrum in the visitor’s 22s and the second try by the eternal No.1, Andrew Lyell, finishing with his famous French flair and successful back move. The final score might have been on the heavy side for the visitors (12-50) but Croydon RFC showed some promising sparkle by their scrum half Will Curtis and centre Carter Hatton. The team also boasted some courage from their new recruits Jack Matthews and Tommy Bolt. Captain Jack Bond is ready and determined to lead his team mates toward a victory for their first away game at Merton on September 25th.

We would lastly like to say a big thank you to all our supporters on the side lines who came to Croydon RFC and we hope to see you again on October 2nd home game against Old Caterhamians.