Organised chaos...

A slightly chaotic start to Saturday afternoon saw Brentwood take to the field for the first league game of the season with only 14 players and no ref.

Our thanks go to the Upper Clapton supporter who, without knowing he was going to get abused and whinged at by Justin all game, kindly stepped up to ref the match...it would have been nice if he opened his eyes ocassionally though!!!! ;o)

With many of the team playing out of position (Justin Jones at scrum half, Jamie Leslie at fly half) there was an inevitable feeling of desperation at kick off.

Upper Clapton took an early lead, largely as a result of the Brentwood mindset, but after a few minutes play it became clear that even with 14 Brentwood were in a position to give Upper clapton a good game.

The scrum and line out functioned well, with Chris Rouse winning plenty of good ball at 2 in the line, and the light weight pack of Mark T, Stuart, Matt, Mark S, Joe, Rory and Chris (only 7 players) holding firm against a vastly heavier Upper Clapton front 8.

Bob Bird made a good impression at inside centre, with plenty of direct running and good line breaks; but it was the Upper Clapton 10 (normally at inside centre) who made the biggest impression on the game, crashing the ball up the middle and creating plenty of space for the Upper Clapton backs.

The heat of the day didn't help Brentwood, with 29C sunshine, young supporters were pivitol in getting water to the Brentwood 14 as often as possible. Thanks very much boys!!

Part way through the first half Brentwood suffered yet further set back...a horrific injury to Bob Bird...the screams could be heard echoing around Brentwood high street...Bob was chasing down a Upper Clapton break, when he stretched to make a last ditch tackle...fell...and dislocated his LITTLE FINGER!!! To crys of "Man Up" from supporters and his fellow team mates, and the assistance of an Upper Clapton substitute, Bob's finger was put back in place, but Bob needed time to recuperate, so Brentwood were down to 13.

Upper Clapton continued to find space on the wings, which was unsurprising given the 2 man advantage, and energy sapping warm conditions.

Whilst not a great result, the score didn't reflect the commitment of the 13.5 players on the pitch...it was another impressive effort...and whilst we wait for that one game where everything clicks, this young side can be proud of the efforts to-date.

Thanks to Josh Hull for stepping in at the last minute and having a great game at fullback (and to all those who provided him with various bits of kit!), and to Mark Smith playing his first full senior game at second row - great effort chaps!

Next team drinks are scheduled for 12 Nov...please make every effort to attend...Rory Williams promises to provide more entertainment, last past 9:30pm and perhaps bounce off something other than a lamppost this time!!