Last Saturday, the men's squad travelled to Midsomer Norton RFC in Somerset to play their first pre-season game of 2026/27. Midsomer are now coached by ex Beckenham boy and coach Lovejoy Chawatama, so it was a good reason for a visit, and a good excuse for a little pre-season tour.

Whilst not a full contact game due to pitch conditions, we were able to see new player and asst forwards coach Ethan Benson's first run out in blue and gold, and our NZ new recruits Matthew Hill and Daniel Mcquoid. It was good to see Andy Knowles back on the field after an injury at the end of last season, and our new skipper Jake Caddy leading from the front.

We also had 4 graduates from the Colts, Pete Towers, Jack Allen, Marshall Pickers and Sam Shonhiwa taking to the field, for Pete and Jack, their first time in senior rugby. Also getting to play alongside their colts coach from last season Freddie Latouche (who returned this season after taking last season out from playing).

Senior players that travelled were Jasper Gee, Dej Hogan, Josh Brown, George Baker, Pierce Cummins, Freddie Latouche, Cian Tookey, Zac Haynes, Christian Klass (welcome back Christian!), Marshall Pickers, George Papa, Sam Shonhiwa, Andrew Knowles, Ethan Benson, Jack Allen, Matthew Hill, Jack Gurney, Daniel Mcquoid, Lewis Bunton, George, Bunton, Jake Caddy, Kyrone Bennett, Juai Charles, and Pete Towers.

Lovejoy treated us to a post match BBQ, with the club putting on a social with live music into the night, so overall it was a great way to start pre-season.

Big thanks to Midsomer Norton, and to Lovejoy, for the warm welcome, and for everything they laid on for us. Shout out also to Jerry Pickers and Ollie Marriott for driving the minibuses down.

Photos are available in the gallery.

Next pre-season fixtures:

Friday 11th Sept - 19.45
1XV v London Irish Wild Geese (H)

Saturday 12th Sept- 15.00
2XV v Southwark, and Streatham & Croydon (A)
(Triangular Fixture at Southwark)

NB: The league season is now due to begin on 21st Sept, we will publish senior fixtures for all of our senior sides soon.