Last minute call ups from Crusaders to scrape a side against fellow league strugglers, Foots Cray, away in south east London.

The satisfying feeling to see the squad execute attacking plays and defend so resolutely against Foots Cray. Superb platform given by the forwards enabled the backs to play expansively in the knowledge that the Devs has the capability to win the ball back. The raging bull, Tom Beaumont, led from the front, with two quick tries following bustling runs, shrugging off tackles with ease to score in the same corner. The pleasing sight, was the superb support play by debutant, Elliot Cohen, and the returning lock, Paul Redgrave. With line breakers such as these, it was important that the other forwards set a solid platform in set piece. The scrums were dominant with a very strong front five, that were determined not to go backwards, flanked by rapid, skilled back row, that tackled everything. The line out, abysmal last match, were superb this week. Special praise to Matt Brightman, who learned to jump only last week, along with Cohen, the Devs completed dominated the line out contest, offensively and defensively.

Often the performances have to excellent in parts but flanked by poorer in other areas. Today, it clicked. Offensive play was aggressive and bullish. The Devs dictated the pace and got just rewards. Three tries by MOTM, Tom Beaumont. Two tries by newbies, Miles Johnson and Martins Salacknoks. Foots Cray breached the Devs try line once capitalising on needless penalties for high tackles and ruck offences.

One of the greatest features of the game is the level of performance by every player on the field. This was encapsulated by the courage and determination by the Devs front line defence, epitomised by the team’s ability to prevent Foots Cray from scoring 5 yards out, lead courageously by Ciaran Beaumont, playing alongside his dad, Darren Beaumont on the wing.

We move onto our next game against Kings College School at home, focused on continuing our fine performance.

MOTM: Tom Beaumont