A squad of 25 plus Colchester players had a pre-season warm up game against the visitors from the Channel Islands and were staying in contention with the score at 14-17 at half time.

This exercise was an opportunity for the coaches to try out various combinations of players. Under the watchful eyes of Director of Rugby Anthony O'Riordan and new Head coach Ben Scully they all gave of their best with coach Lee Soper organising the forwards.

Although the Raiders ran away with the game in the second half, not surprising in that last season they were two leagues above the Blacks, every member of the home squad put in an appearance, an invaluable experience for each of them before the new season. The home side can take away from the game that they were able to put 21 points on a former National 2 side, each try born from skill rather than chance. It's unlikely that Colchester will come up against a backline of such quality in London North 1, so the defence practise will be invaluable.

Also, the good news is that there were no injuries in a game played tenaciously but in good spirit by both sides. In a fortnight's time, Colchester travel to Kent for their second pre-season game against Westcombe Park and supporters will be most welcome.

Steve Whiteman