We were always likely to be a little rusty in this fixture given that we had not played for close to three weeks. A good week of training, despite the poor weather, left us looking forward to the challenge, one which we knew would be formidable.

Much focus this week had centred on the breakdown and how to generate quicker, higher quality ball than previously managed this season. Our target for the first 10 minutes was therefore to achieve this and create some momentum in this aspect of the game. If we could do this, we knew that other parts of our game would fall into place. Needless to say Harrow had something to say about this! Our intention was to win the battle of the shoulder heights and for large parts we did this meaning we could generate the speed of ball we needed.

This led to early scores for Radley who were relentless in the pressure that exerted on any Harrow breakdown ball. The tone was set by Brown and Johnstone. A big ball carrying centre from Harrow firmly planted safely back where he started his run from, and we were off and running. Radley cleverly balanced where their attacking threat materialised from and this kept Harrow guessing. Some really first class scores resulted; some from deep inside the Radley half. It felt, for the first time, that Radley were playing as a proper unit, with everybody appreciating the importance of the basics in laying the foundations for more ambitious plays. The attack fizzed, despite the slippery conditions. Scorers are not necessarily relevant as this a team effort but credit must be paid to Sundavadra, back to his barnstorming best, alongside the most excellent Brown who has the potential to become a wonderful player. King was brave and busy as always, Captain Bayly leading the industrious charge. Bremner steered the ship beautifully but special mention must go to Carter Shaw who has been brilliant in training and was again imperious in his performance. Grey, at prop, carried well in the wide channel but on this occasion was outdone by the wonderful decision making of his front row partner, Bullen, who had the most effective of first halves. Cowell made metres and Pryde worked tirelessly for the team throughout.

It was fantastic to be able to test ourselves against the quality offered by Harrow. Thank you to them for their sportsmanship and commitment throughout. Thank you also to our band of extremely loyal followers. We look forward to seeing you on the touchlines at Abingdon for our local derby day next week.