Ah the glorious summer continues and the pre-season fixtures continue. Last week saw on Saturday the men's sides host Division 2's Barnes RFC. In the glorious sunshine the 1st XV came away with a memorable 22-17 win. This result shows great promise for the coming season!

The second XV also enjoyed a fab day at the office as well where rugby was notably the winner. What was particularly encouraging was with 27 players out of action or unavailable we produced 2 quality sides for some great rugby. Notable mentions go to Malarky English, who, when on Thursday when he was asked if he wanted a run out on Saturday replied with "absolutely no way - it's August you loser!" So it was particularly pleasing to see him starting for the 2nd XV on Saturday. When asked afterwards why he had donned the claret and blue he replied "Well Bully phoned me, and no one can resist a phone call from the big man". A touching start to the season.

Then on Sunday the ladies hosted good pals Hampstead RFC in their first pre-season friendly. Notable mentions go to Ange who, upon arriving in the changing room reeking of alcohol, was told to go outside and compose herself and then come in again. She went on to play a blinder - obviously we do not condone such pre-match preparations.... ahem. Match report below:

Wimbledon Ladies 27 - 50 Hampstead Ladies

On Sunday the ladies team played host to Hampstead Ladies who made their way across London to play the first friendly of the 2016 / 2017 campaign. From their warm up Hampstead looked to be a well drilled outfit who were very much up for the battle ahead. With depleted numbers Hampstead kindly lent Wimbledon 3 players. With 2 tries conceded in the first 5 minutes it looked like it was going to be a very long day for Wimbledon, however having used the first quarter as an extended warm up Wimbledon Ladies began to play some superb rugby, looking up, seeing gaps and using the space around them. A beautiful catch and drive line out lead to second row Christy Fowler scoring her first try for Wimbledon, there were also tries for El Donelson, Rachael Dark and Jen Van der Crooke. There is a lot to work on but there were some excellent spells in play with great promise of things to come, their first game in the bag we look forward to seeing them play when they are at full strength. This Saturday they play their second friendly at home, please do come down and support, kick off will be at 2.30

Whilst regular training is on, don't forget for the tired older souls and some nervous newbies that every Thursday there is the Strollers' touch session starting at 8pm before dinner and darts. Do get down - this is open to everyone.