1st XV vs Ruislip
There's no dressing this up, the defeat at Ruislip for our 1st XV was incredibly disappointing. As I predicted, the conditions played their part, but so too did the cohesive forward plan implemented by Ruislip and our inability to adapt to the match situation when it was six inches in front of our faces...

The truth is, just as our lads were beginning to get to grips with Ruislip, a relatively innocuous incident turned into a significant turning point when the match official decided that Harrison Pickett's intervention at a breakdown melee was deserving of a red card. Of course, the only opinion that counts on the field of play is that of the referee and therefore the team had to live with the rather untimely consequences. A typically opportunistic try from Matt Wadling was the only chink of light in the second half but it was too little, too late. No excuses, Ruislip were deserving of their win. Now, back to the drawing board and the training pitch on Tuesday evening as we look to get our season back on track.

Despite the rough day at Ruislip, overall the senior section had an excellent set of results. The Ravens notched up their first win of the season, overturning the second string side from Westcombe Park (National 3) 31-12 at Mill Road. The victory was built upon a strong forward platform. The Ravens were able to field a experienced front row with Jake Crowther, Dan Hexley and Alex Mitchell all putting in strong displays. With improved availability, the Ravens coach/manager Alex Lacey was able to field plenty of experience and the side didn't need to rely upon too many players taking to the field out of position.

Ravens vs Westcombe Park
From a club perspective it was great to see two debutants in the Ravens side - Jordan Kerr and Zach Puckey. Again, our aim is to blood as many young players who are ready for the challenge in order to prepare them However, by all accounts the absolute star of the show was Eli Castle. In an immense display Eli led by example and made a series of key interventions throughout the game including a number of midfield breaks. Tries from James Parry, Will Allen, Jack White, Andy Goodbourn, Charlie Champs and additional conversions from fly half Jack White secured a great win for the Ravens, moving them to 10th place in Zoo Division 2. The Ravens continue their campaign next week with a tough trip to take on Old Albanians 2nd XV at The Harpenden Road Ground.

A XV vs Sudbury
Elsewhere, senior coaches Rich Holland, Andy Sutcliffe and Mike Howlett were able to field strong A XV and Cavalier sides. Our XV climbed to 3rd in Eastern Counties Division 1 with a resounding win over our most local of rivals, Sudbury RFC. The A XV Man of the Match was Matt Parker. From scrum half, Matt absolutely dominated the game and controlled the entire game - his contribution was instrumental in the 40-0 victory.

Cavaliers vs Ipswich YM
The Cavaliers went to Ipswich YM and secured a 7-34 win away from home. The Cavaliers No.8 and skipper Mark Harman led from the front and put his body on the line to help the Cavaliers secure consistent possession in the right areas. This possession was also utilised well, and coach Rich Holland paid tribute to winger Fraser Wilkie who had an outstanding game both in terms of attack and defence.

Roundheads vs Clacton RFC
The Roundheads travelled to Clacton RFC where they secured a 20-40 win. Roundheads skipper Bart Wilkinson noted that the mature Colchester side were facing opposition who were young enough to be their children (or grandchildren!). After an evenly matched start Colchester found their feet and secured a solid half time lead (10-21). In the second half the Roundheads used their physical presence to dominate the opposition with the highlight being a hat-trick of tries from Neil Girdlestone. The Roundheads are looking for new players, so if you're not able to train but still want some competitive social rugby, please contact Bart on ian@ipwassessments.co.uk

Elsewhere in Senior Rugby..
It was a real triumph to be able to field five senior teams this weekend with players of all shapes, sizes and ages pulling on the Colchester shirt. Our aim is to provide the best possible rugby experience for all our members and I hope that we are making some small steps to realise this aim. On Saturday there are three games at Mill Road; the 1st XV have an opportunity to get back to winning ways as Letchworth Garden City, the Cavaliers take on Sudbury Tigers and the Roundheads host Aldeburgh and Thorpeness RFC. Away from Mill Road our A XV be making the short trip to Mistley RFC - they will be determined to maintain their great form to keep the pressure on league leaders Hadleigh RFC and Ipswich YM.

Finally this weekend it was great to see one of our 1st XV Coaches Lee Soper and players Brett Cutbush, David Higgins, Rob Pickard, Shelford Meads and Simon Gray supporting our Youth set-up on Sunday morning. Having 1st XV players around gives our younger players something to aspire to - ultimately our aim as a club is to promote rugby and ensure that Colchester's youngsters have the chance to play a great team game and represent their home town with pride.