I think the quote from Mike Tyson sums up the start of the season “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth,". The punch in the mouth happened in the 2nd minute of the Letchworth game, when Joe Tracy suffered a nasty lower leg break. Since that moment, bodies have been falling like flies. The injuries coincided with an incredibly tough run of fixtures with Letchworth, Colchester and Sudbury, all ending in sobering heavy defeats, and yet more battered and bruised bodies…

Last week we welcomed Southend to Hoe Lane, and for the opening 40 minutes we had opened up a 22-5 lead, but a momentum swing before half time, from an attacking position no less, ended in the visitors scoring to close the gap to a 10pt game. The 2nd half was a very different story, where Southend controlled the majority of the game, and even though the game was locked up at 29 all with 10mins to go, a yellow card to Louis Kendrick (on his return after nearly a year out of the game) we couldn’t trouble the scorers again, eventually losing 29-46.

This performance, even though only a point was taken, definitely showed that this young, inexperienced side, is moving in the right direction.

This for me was very evident in our performance at the weekend against a battling Amersham & Chiltern side, who find themselves in a very similar situation to us, not only in league position but in the health of their squad. The most pleasing aspect of the game for the coaching team was the way in which the team stuck to the game plan, executed it well for large parts, and didn’t get bored of what was going well. Still lots of areas we need to continue to develop and improve, but 5pts on the road was very well deserved and welcomed by the group.

With a week off to let some bodies recover, as well as a number of lads returning from injuries, plus some new additions to the squad, we will be looking at building momentum into the Old Northamptonians game on Saturday 8th November. This will be another huge challenge against a side desperate to pick up their first win of the season. I’m sure the energy at Hoe Lane will be bouncing in anticipation.

I’d just like to say a massive thank you to the playing group for staying positive and upbeat, even after the heavy defeats, their attitude and dedication has been unquestionable and shows the character of this fantastic group.

To the coaching & medical team for sticking to task and continuing to work tirelessly, even when everything seemed to go against us, thank you.

Lastly to the supporters, sponsors, patrons and members who have been so supportive and positive throughout this tough period. The confidence that gives to us knowing that we have your backing means a lot and we hope we can repay you in our performances for the remainder of the season.

Exciting times ahead, see you at Hoe Lane for the visit of ON’s.

Yours in rugby,
Marcus