With the final game of the regular season upon them, the Surrey Stags made their way to their home ground of Effingham and Leatherhead Rugby Club with a bare ten players to fight to ensure that their position in the table was complete.

With an average age of less than 20, due to the large contingent of 16 year olds recruited at the last moment from their summer holidays, the Stags prepared for what was to be a long and gruelling afternoon under the blistering sun.

From the start the Pirates showed the steady improvements they've made over the season, dominating the ruck and centre ball, resulting in a long period of tense play in the Stags’ scoring zone. Marshalled by Toddy, the Stags’ defence put in a valiant effort that led to some impressive counter attacks, giving a flattering first quarter score with Stags outscoring Pirates by a single behind.

The Pirates came back in the second turn and put some serious pressure on the Stags. They took the lead thanks to some impressive marks by their full forward.

The break gave the Stags the time they needed to get their energy back. The difference was brought back to within a point by a kick that resulted in a fair amount of debate over the scoring zone (I was clearly inside...)

Both teams showed what a win would mean to them with tough challenges throughout the 20 minutes. The pressure was very much against the Stags for the majority of the turn but some outstanding defence and strong counter attacking resulted in a narrow Stags victory!

Final Score:
Q1: Surrey Stags - 4.2.26 ~ 4.1.25 - Market House Pirates
Q2: Surrey Stags - 5.3.33 ~ 6.5.41 - Market House Pirates
Q3: Surrey Stags - 8.8.56 ~ 8.7.55 - Market House Pirates
Q4: Surrey Stags - 11.12.78 ~ 10.9.69 - Market House Pirates

Best On Ground: Ali McKinnell
Dick of The Day: Ali McKinnell (for umpire abuse)