They are a good club with an excellent side and we’re looking forward to having them back for what will be a big game, one which will be a huge test for our young squad to see if they can step up to the physicality our visitors will bring.
I can’t believe we’re in December already. This half-season has gone quickly and been a steep learning curve for the the new-look team, but they’ve found their feet much quicker than we might have anticipated.
This was particularly evident when we arrived at Leicester to find the pitch effectively underwater, then told the referee had decided the training pitch situated through the woods, down a lane and round the corner was acceptable – it was an interesting afternoon.
There were no floodlights, guide ropes or technical area, and a dead ball area smaller than my bed.
But the guys were keen to play, so was Seb, and play they certainly did.
In the end we all enjoyed our day out, but had the result gone the other way, I imagine we’d have been spitting nails!
Given I’m on the organising committee for Minimum Operating Standards, and the RFU are starting to make noises about these coming in at Levels Three and Four, it would not have been acceptable.
But the young guys acquitted themselves extremely well, stuck to the task and it was like going back to Level Seven days.
Brilliant effort from Colts and Under 20s
Moving on, I must commend our Colts for their superb National Cup last 32 home victory against Windsor.
It was nice to come and watch a game without the pressure of National One – I didn’t need to greet or talk to anyone – and the boys played out of their skins against a very good side.
After the first five minutes you feared it could be one-way traffic, but our guys tackled their hearts out, ran from every part of the pitch and it was a thoroughly enjoyable game to watch.
I’d encourage anyone to back the side as they enter the last 16 after Christmas, I believe against Dorking, and it’s heart-warming to see them put the level of effort they do.
It helped rekindle the love of the sport after a defeat to Plymouth defeat the day before!
Equally, to have so many of our players in the Berkshire Under 20s squad who beat Oxford University Whippets last Sunday is good, and it’s so important the programme is maintained.
In fact, the other Berkshire clubs also agree U23s is crucial for the future of the sport, because we don’t have the same volume of players other counties do.
Good news off-the-field
Off-the-field I’m pleased to report our Big Budget Breakfast proved a success with some 70 people attending and speakers from law, accountancy, HR and Mr Reynolds – I can’t remember what he talked about because I don’t understand it – but it was very good.
Our local MP, Clive Jones, several councillors and a lot of local businesses were there, and they were all very impressed with the facilities – some wanted a guided tour and could not believe what we’ve done.
We have a few more events coming up soon with the Minis’ Christmas Party – I hear Santa maybe making an appearance – and then the Senior one on December 20 after the Dings game.
The players will all be wearing their silly jumpers and hopefully we have lots of people come along as well.
Then a Save the Date for the Sportsman’s Dinner on March 28, when Nigel Owens is the guest speaker.
Please book your tables soon!
Thanks to our volunteers
Finally, I’m very pleased to say Andy Anderson, our scoreboard operator is doing very well following his recent stroke – he is now in the rehab ward at the Royal Berks and we hope to see him back soon.
To Andy and all the volunteers who help make the place tick, especially Rod Vaughan and Amanda who look after the pitches so well, a huge shout-out.
I wish everyone an early happy Christmas, hope we have a good turn-out today and look forward to seeing our supporters at Rosslyn Park and Dings in the next fortnight.
