England Rugby 2015, the Organising Committee for Rugby World Cup 2015 (RWC 2015), confirmed that Cobham RFC will be an official Team Base hosting both Italy and Namibia during the Tournament, taking place in England and in Cardiff between September 18 and October 31 2015.

• Cobham as World Cup Base in the News as RWC approaches
• The Rugby World Cup comes to Cobham; the Webb Ellis trophy at Cobham RFC

• The official announcement that Cobham RFC will be a RWC Team Base
• RWC 2015 Press Conference at Cobham Rugby
• The official website of Rugby World Cup 2015
• The official website of Italy, Federazione Italiana Rugby
• The official website of Namibia Rugby, the Welwitschias
• The official RWC 2015 Tickets website, with any available tickets now on general sale
• Cobham host RWC 2015 Groundsmen's Workshop

The Cobham U21 team have progressed to the Surrey Rugby U21 Cup semi-finals following a great game against Sutton & Epsom on December 29th which ended 36-3 to Cobham (having been 7-3 at half time).

Earlier, on Christmas Eve, the U21s defeated Effingham & Leatherhead 37-17 to effectively set up the decider against Sutton & Epsom.

We now await details of the next matches to be played in the Easter break, but having topped Group C we are guaranteed a Cup semi final.

Cobham were drawn in a group with Effingham & Leatherhead, Esher and Sutton & Epsom, kicking off with an away 29-24 Win against Esher on Saturday 27th August.

The Stuart Mangan Memorial Cup will see some of the big names of English and Irish rugby go head-to-head one more time. Apart from our own Billy Davison those involved will include Martin Corry, Shane Byrne, Jason Robinson, Rob Henderson, Austin Healey, Richard Wallace, Jason Leonard and Mick Galway to name but a few.  

The game is being played again to raise funds for those seriously injured playing the game we all enjoy so much.  The charities benefiting include the RFU Injured Players Foundation and the IRFU Charitable Trust.  There are a number of great sponsors on board to cover the running costs so all funds raised go directly to the charities.

It is the eve of the Six Nations clash and should provide the perfect opener to the final weekend of the championship.  There were 11,000 there in 2010 and the organisers are hoping to fill the stadium this time around.After the game there will be bands playing in the main bar and plenty of food and drinks to be had so come and make a night of it. 

The game was conceived to raise money for Stuart Mangan, who was paralysed from the high neck following a rugby accident whilst playing for Hammersmith & Fulham RFC in April 2008.  Stuart required 24-hour medical care for his every basic need and The Stuart Mangan Appeal was launched to fundraise, with patrons including Keith Wood, Ronan O'Gara and Jason Leonard.  Stuart sadly passed away in August 2009 having contracted pneumonia, but his family have chosen for the Legends game to raise necessary funds to support other injured players.

Tickets can be purchased (£10 for adults and £5 for kids) by clicking here: www.englandirelandlegends.co.uk

  where you will also find information on the teams and Corporate Hospitality contacts.

Cobham U17 into London and SE Division Cup final on 1^st April

For U17 teams throughout England, this is the time of year when rounds of the National U17 Cup are played out initially within regions and then inter-region.

The Cobham U17 squad are progressing really well having overcome both the awful conditions and the Kent side Old Elthamians 29 - 6 in the first round of the L&SE Regional Cup on 4^th March and then overpowering Havant (Sussex) 44 – 13 in the second round on 18^th March.

The U17s are now set to play Old Albanians (Herts) in the final of the London and South East Division U17 Cup to be played at the Cambridge University RFC ground in Grange Road, Cambridge on Sunday 1^st April, KO 4.30pm (there are also Plate, Bowl and Vase finals being played earlier in the day).

Success against Old Albanians would then lead to the National U17 Cup semi final against the winners of the South West Division Cup, on 22^nd April (at a neutral location) and then to the final on 6^th May. Two years ago Cobham’s U17 side won this cup – please support these hard working lads. Watch the web site for more details.

Cobham are delighted to welcome so many of our friends from neighbouring clubs for the U7s and U8s floodlit festival.

We're all so keen to see the youngsters develop up the ladder of Mini rugby and this festival is a great opportunity for everyone to enjoy and evening of great rugby and most importantly great sportsmanship - where the young players learn the rugby ethos.

• For the matchday programme click here
• For the registration pack click here
• For a map of the festival pitch click here

Format Overview

REGISTRATION will take place at the scorer’s table in the Clubhouse by 5.45 pm
REFEREE’S BRIEFING will take place in front of the Clubhouse at 5.45 pm
FORMAT will be 2 pools of 4 teams in each age group. The teams finishing first in each pool play off for the Cup, the teams finishing second in each group play off for the Plate, the teams finishing third in each group play off for the Bowl and the teams finishing fourth in each group play off for the Vase.
Each team will play 3 pool matches and 1 “final”. Each referee will ref 2 matches.
PRESENTATIONS will take place after the final game in each age group upstairs in the Clubhouse.

• U8 POOL 1 – Cobham Lions – Esher – Chobham – Battersea Ironsides
• U8 POOL 2 – Cobham Tigers – Sutton & Epsom – Guildford - Teddington
• U7 POOL 3 – Cobham Lions – Esher – Chobham – Battersea Ironsides
• U7 POOL 4 – Cobham Tigers – Sutton & Epsom – Guildford – Cobham Cheetahs

Have a lovely evening of rugby!

News Round-up

Cobham old boy Jack Clifford (despite only being 18) played again for England U20s last weekend narrowly losing out 12-8 to France in the U20 Six Nations. This coming Friday 16^th March they play Ireland at Adams Park. Go along and watch if you can. Congratulations Jack for playing so well for England.

On Sunday 11^th March, England U18 Clubs and Schools side had their first warm up game vs Northampton Saints academy narrowly losing 29-36 despite a four try haul from Cobham’s Jordan Burns. Well done Jordan – there’s no substitute for pace and he’s got plenty of it. For a full match report click here

Great news for Cobham’s U13 squad where two of their number - Riordan Morley and Matt Frost - have been selected play for The Independent Schools RFC (formerly The Independent and Prep Schools Barbarians). They were selected following a long process culminating in final trial matches at Rugby School last Sunday in which the best players from all 4 regions of England took part. Well done guys.

Ken Higgins (1926-2012)

It is with the greatest sadness that we have learned of the death of Ken Higgins, stalwart of so many activities at the club. He died during the evening of Sunday 18th March at his home in Ashtead with his family around him aged 86. He had been unwell for some time.

Ken joined The Old Surbitonians Association after leaving school in the early 1940s. He played both cricket and rugby. In the early years, he kept wicket for the Old Surbitonians' Cricket Club and was a very popular member of the team where his dry humour was particularly appreciated by his team mates.

In the Old Surbitonians' Rugby Club, Ken played mostly as a wing three-quarter but in other positions as well. However, it was when he ended his playing days that he was able to make his greatest contribution to the club as Team Secretary. His devotion to this task enabled team selection and communication to be carried out with consummate ease which gained the admiration and thanks of all Club members especially when there were last minute changes to the make up of any of the four teams that were run at the time - in an age of no-emails, mobile phone or texting! With his wonderful phlegmatic personality, Ken coped with all problems and contingencies. Nothing fazed him.

At away matches, on many occasions, Ken was the only spectator (often standing undaunted in the pouring rain) and therefore required to act as touch judge. He was an outstanding committee man always upholding the long-term future of the club yet mindful of worthy traditions. He was always keen to see the young players able to thrive and be given senior opportunities and he was very much involved in bringing the St. John's Ambulance Brigade to the touchline for emergencies. He also served the club in many other official capacities, such as organising Old Surbs' dinner-dances at Surbiton Assembly Rooms.

When the Braemar Club was formed, Ken became a senior member and quickly set about creating an archive of photographs and memorabilia to be kept for posterity.

His contribution to Old Surbitonians/Cobham was immense. He was a much loved friend and colleague, a school classmate of Peter Marsh, and an admired true gentleman. He will be sadly missed and we send our sincere condolences to his wife, Maureen, and to their children.

The funeral will take place at St. Michael's Catholic Church, Ashtead, Surrey, at 11.00am on Friday 30th March with donations to St. John's Ambulance via Funeral Directors,  L. Hawkins & Sons, Highlands Road, Leatherhead, Surrey.KT22 8ND

Congratulations to the following Cobham lads:

Harry Green

Will Radford

Tom Farrelly

Yiannis Loizias

James Manning

Who all started and played for Surrey U17s against Essex U17s on Sunday 15th April 2012 and won 27-12.

Congratulations to Tom Birch, one of the Cobham U15 players, who started for Surrey U15 v Kent on Wednesday 18th April. 

In a cracking end to end game, Surrey lost 23-30 but a great experience for Tom.

Well done.

U11 Cobham Coach Stuart Evans has written a fictional book about Mini Rugby which he has agreed to exclusively preview with all at Cobham Rugby.

"The Dream of the Number 10 Shirt" tells the story of Dan Westley, a ten year old boy who plays for the Old Hardcastles, a mini rugby team with a ferocious head coach, Jock McGibbin. The OH's aren't very successful. Nobody wants to play them. Dan wanted to join the top local club Rosehill, but couldn't even get on the waiting list. So he ends up at the OH's, a club that has seen better days, and nothing goes to plan.

"The Dream of the Number 10 Shirt" embodies the childhood dream of playing sport in a glamorous position, the number 10 having been worn by Jonny, Dan Carter and Michael Lynagh in rugby, as well as Pele, Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona in football. Is intended to appeal to children (and adults) on a number of levels. It's a fun story with lots of ups and downs, it will get those with a curiosity about rugby to want to know more, and it will get those who like rugby to love it even more.

The whet your appetite, first few Chapters are available to read  - For more information and To download the chapters click here

Lee Crabb is Mr Scrumpix - he's always at every major rugby event from Internationals to the dizzy heights of the Cobham Oman 10s on Sunday 30th April, suffering more than most in the wet conditions but he's a stalwart character and come rain or shine he's always there.

He has also taken some fantastic action shots over the years not least of which is the one below. If you want to view his photos click here*.

Does anyone know the name of the Cobham player? If so email webmaster@cobhamrfc.com and we'll make sure he gets a mention - and slagging off for wearing girlie tights.

Huge congratulations to George Lowe on the announcement today, Thursday 10th May, that he's been selected for his first outing in the senior England squad to tour to South Africa in June. George graduated from Cobham Minis and Youth into the Harlequins team and despite a nasty injury earlier this year has demonstrated he's a class #13. Well done George.

Also selected again is Alex Corbisiero, another Cobham old boy - congratulations to you too.

In other international news, Jack Clifford has been selected for England U20 for the Junior World Cup in June in SA. Jack was part of the very successful U18 team last year that was Rugby World Team of the Year. Congratulations Jack.

Stepping away from England news, Tom Bliss and Maddy Hughes (who also played with Jack) have been selected for USA U20 in a two match tour against Canada U20 in May as a precursor to the Junior World Trophy in Salt Lake City in June. Well done boys!

Congratulations to all the competing teams at this year's Oman 10's Cobham Youth Rugby competition, held Sunday April 29th.

It was a challenging day for all players given the excessive rain and subsequent mud but games were played in a great spirit and fortunately the rain finally ended in the late afternoon!

Full results are below, but congratulations to the Cobham U16s (pictured below) for winning their age group and well done to Cobham U14s & U15s for their runners-up award.

 RESULTS

• U13

1: Sevenoaks
2. Worthing

• U14

1. Rosslyn Park
2. Cobham

• U15

1. Aylesford Bulls
2. Cobham

• U16

1. Cobham
2. Brighton

Update – 9^th March 2012

This note is to give you an update of the current developments with the Cobham Sports Association (CSA) grounds developments covering

• Progress to date on Covenham Grounds
• Installation of Memorial Grounds Irrigation works from now to end March 2012
• Plan for Covenham Grounds availability provisionally January 2013

But first, anyone who has been at the Memorial ground recently can be under no illusion as to the necessity and importance of the work on the new grounds. Despite the best efforts of our groundsman, Chris Humber, who has done a fantastic job on our grounds, the pitches are beginning to really show the impact of the amount of sports usage they get.

As you will see below, work is well underway to improve all of our grounds and we have received fantastic support in the form of substantial grants for (a) the grounds development from Sport England and (b) the irrigation projects from the Rugby Football Union (RFU).

So, we now have not one, but two major projects underway;

1.       The transformation of Covenham Grounds into sports fields

2.       The setting up of a new irrigation system for the Memorial Grounds

1. COVENHAM GROUNDS

As far as the Covenham Grounds are concerned, they are now all levelled, de-stoned and fertilised. They have now also had a first seeding as a result of how mild the recent weather has been and we would hope together another, more substantial seeding at the back end of March or early April, but this is, of course, weather dependant.

The Covenham Grounds Irrigation works are now complete. All that remains is for the delivery of the self travelling irrigation devices.

Whilst this work completes the creation of the three new pitches it does not however complete the work required to complete the Covenham Project .We need to build toilets and  storage facilities , fence the grounds , refurbish the floodlights , erect signage and last but not least 3 new sets of goalposts , post protectors and corner flags.. All this costs money and we will be exploring new funding initiatives involving the membership to turn these projects into a reality.

2.    MEMORIAL GROUNDS

The RFU funding allows us to fund not only the irrigation for the Covenham Grounds but also a bore hole and irrigation system for the Memorial Grounds.

The Memorial Grounds Irrigation works have commenced this week in front of the clubhouse and will be completed by the end of March

All work will be done during weekdays and, of course, no exposed trenches will be left. Where trenching has taken place and backfilled the ground may be uneven. As such whilst mini training and youth warm ups should not be significantly affected, the Lacrosse training pitch immediately in front of the clubhouse will compromised. This cannot be avoided if we are to have the irrigation installed for Summer 2012, so, we will be working hard to assess how we can ensure that Lacrosse face a minimum of disruption.

During the next few weeks, it is essential that we are all vigilant in ensuring that no ‘inquisitive’ elements of the club decide to explore the works area – or to put it another way; please take responsibility for keeping your children away from any works areas!!

TIMINGS

Memorial Grounds – If all goes according to plan, we should have properly irrigated pitches on the Memorial Ground for the start of next season – this will make a massive difference to our ability to manage these three pitches.

Covenham Grounds – If the weather and the summer are kind to us, then we are hopeful that we can commence  use of the 3 new pitches in January 2013 and we will plan the calendar for the 12/13 season on this basis. It is possible that the grounds may be ready earlier than this, but we will obviously not open the grounds for sports until they are fully ready. We will update you if this timing changes.

Finally, you will find the answers to some Frequently Asked Questions by clicking here, here, but if you have a question that is not answered here, please don’t hesitate to contact me or any one of the CSA Committee to discuss further.

Thanks for your ongoing support

Steve Robinson

- CSA Land Committee

Both teams had lost in their respective previous Surrey trophy final appearances but Cobham went into this Surrey final at Imber Court justifiable favourites, having defeated Sutton & Epsom on two previous occasions this season.

The Cobham line up for this game included Adam Watkins at 12, who scored a try in the previous round and a return for Alex Crane.  Dave and Luke Flower continued the half back pairing.

Sutton & Epsom started this game showing just how much they wanted to win and end their season on a high. After some early sparing number 13, Andy Nichols intercepted just inside Cobham's half to run in for an early try which scrum half Murray converted. 7-0. After 13 minutes that wasn’t in the script for  Cobham  and losing number 4 Alex Crane, to a shoulder injury shortly thereafter, didn’t help the cause either.  Jules Kunkler substituted wearing a duplicate number 1 shirt, obviously to confuse.

The game then settled more into a halfway tussle with both sides putting in some big tackles. Jack Davison and Dave Baker to the fore, Matt Whittaker for Sutton & Epsom. Cobham took advantage of the scrum domination by creating an opportunity for new boy Watkins to score in the corner after 34 minutes, 7-5 and continuing to maintain pressure Luke Flower scored and converted a virtuoso try just before half time 7-12.

There was some relief amongst the Cobham supporters that Cobham had completed 40 minutes and were in front but it was clear this was going to be a closer encounter than previous.

The second half started with Cobham continuing to dominate up front and there was consistent strong running from the back of the scrum by Van Niekerk and Davison. S& E lost their prop Gary Nash to the sin bin and soon after Van Niekerk showed his footwork to its best advantage and controlled a scrum to enable him to secure Cobham’s third try 7-17 after 50 minutes.  Although Flower missed the conversion, with Cobham playing more consistently, that should score line should have been enough of a lead to secure the game.

However Sutton and Epsom looked to be a completely different side to the team who had lost at the Memorial grounds two weeks earlier and the next 15 minutes saw some of the best defence Cobham have shown all season. It wasn’t enough however to avoid first, a penalty 10-17 and then a second try in the corner by Nichols narrowing the lead to 15-17 with ten minutes remaining.

A well taken Luke Flower penalty relieved the pressure to 15-20 and although there was more defence needed as Sutton & Epsom still looked to come back Cobham held on to win.

There was a palpable relief at the final whistle for the supporters that Cobham had edged this final match of the 2011/12 season and achieved their first Surrey Trophy and it will not only have given the players satisfaction but the back room team of Dave Silver, Martin Green, Tom Schofield and Chris Melton without whom none of this would be possible.

For photos click here

Team:

1.Alexander 2.Gibbons 3.Nunn 4.Crane 5.Davison B 6.Davison J 7.Baker 8. Van Niekerk 9.Flower D 10.Flower L 11.Bates 12.Watkins 13.Fisher 14.Moreton 15.Cowell ( Captain)

Subs

Joyce

Kunkler

Smyth

Gillott

Saunders

Gravier

Fitzpatrick

Tries  Watkins, FlowerL ,Van Niekerk

Conversion Flower L

Penalty Flower L

Cobham All Stars and Weybridge Vandals shared the Fuller's Vets Tournament at Cobham, Saturday April 28th 2012.

The two sides, having previously also drawn in the league round, met in the Final and drew 10-10 in the match and the score remained the same after the extra time period.

The game then went to a penalty shoot-out exchange but the teams still could not be separated and in true rugby fashion they then shook hands on a well earned draw.

The Tournament was played in a great spirit despite the cold and rainy weather and was a fine way to end the season.

Grand Final

Cobham 10 Weybridge Vandals 10 aet

Penalty shoot-out 4-4 - game drawn

League Table

Further pictures from the day..

Congratulations to the Cobham Mini teams from U9s, U11's and U12's who all won Cups on the annual Mini Tour.

Special mention to both U9 teams who got to the Cup Final and for the other U11 team coming third. Well done too to the U10s who stuck it out in the battle of the mud.

Mini Chairman John Craig said "This was the very best rugby we have played in tough conditions but also with fantastic and spirited support from large numbers of noisy spectators. All in all a very successful tour with lots of fun had by all and some very tired players and dads at the end of it."

To view some pictures of the tour from Chris Ruggio please click on the following links:

http://www.britishmodern.co.uk/camber2012_u12/slideshow
http://www.britishmodern.co.uk/camber2012_u9cheetahs/slideshow
http://www.britishmodern.co.uk/camber2012_u9cougars/slideshow
http://www.britishmodern.co.uk/camber2012_u11cobras/slideshow
http://www.britishmodern.co.uk/camber2012_u11cougars/slideshow

How it works:

- simply select the pictures you like and buy them using the shopping cart

- Web-quality downloads are FREE - select "Digital Download - Web resolution" - you still must use the cart but you won't be charged anything

- if you order prints, they will be delivered to you from Photobox

- all profits support the club

Of course, the usual reporting restrictions are in place for non-playing activities as ... what goes on tour...

Cobham RFC was delighted to provide training facilities for four of the participating nations who competed in The IRB Women's Sevens Challenge Cup, London, May 12-13.

The tournament ran alongside the Marriott London Sevens and is part of The HSBC Sevens World Series and was won by England, defeating Netherlands 34-7 but with Canada finshing 3rd after beating Australia 19-14 in the play-off.

Cobham RFC welcomed Australia, Canada, South Africa and USA who are pictured here.

Rachel Carter, Logistics Coordinator with RFUW said after their training sessions:

"Cobham RFC was chosen as a training base for 4 International Women's Rugby Teams (Australia, Canada, South Africa and USA) prior to them competing at the IRB Women's Sevens Challenge Cup in London. Cobham RFC was an ideal club to use due to the great facilities on offer and the fantastic logistical support offered by Suzanne Whealing, the Pitches and Grounds Coordinator. The club could not have been more supportive, helpful and friendly and I would recommend other teams to utilise Cobham as a training base."

On Saturday 19^th May, Cobham Rugby kicked off their sevens season at the Teapotone Charity 7s competition organised by an old Cobham player Gavin Bolton.

Imber court played host to the competition which had 6 teams playing each other once, with each team being seeded into their respective finals, the bowl, the plate and the cup. 

Cobham kicked off the competition against the favourites of the tournament, the Teapotone Charity side which hosted a number of strong players connected to the charity.  After a close first half finishing 7 all, David Baker managed to keep the charity side out with some fantastic covering tackles, while the gaps soon started to open up for Adam Hanline scoring the winner after a close battle for a 24-17 win.  

Cobham then met Old Glyns and Wandworthians in rounds 2 and 3, continuing their winning streak with some great forward grunt from Rob Frost and Arron Smyth constantly turning over some good ball to provide a solid platform to the backs.   Jean Louis Gravier and Adam Watkins combined well to break the hard tackling Wandworthians, making space for Billy Bates to capitalise on the gaps created, winning 28-5.  Old Glyns put up less resistance with relaxed  54-7 win.   Ryan Saunders showing his pace and some strong hand offs to run in a few tries, along with some great offloading between David Baker and Arron Smyth to put captain Callum Stott in under the sticks.

Round 4 was where Cobham came up against its toughest test of the day versus Kingston, who were seen as the most physical team at the competition.  Therefore there was only one way to take them on, with the hard hitting Rob Frost and Josh Brown bashing their way through the line of Kingston.  Cobham did well to keep the score at 14-14 with moments to go, with Rob Frost making a very hard tackle on his opposite man.  A close encounter was won by the lightening pace of Adam Hanline skinning his opposite winger to win the game 21-14, leaving Slough in the way of being undefeated during the pool stages.

Slough proved to be harder competition than first though, with the opening scoring coming from a break down the winger, with what can only be described as a ‘Sonny-Bill esq’ behind the back offload to an inside support runner to score under the posts.   Cobham then stepped their game up with both Jean Louis and Billy using their sevens skills to step through a tired Slough defence.   Hungry to get in on the action, Ryan and Adam Watkins showed their pace to take the final score up to a respectable 42-12 to wrap up an undefeated pool stage for the boys in blue. 

The final saw Cobham come up against the Teapotone who narrowly beat Kingston in the final round to set up a tense final to end the day.  With the prospect of silverware the Cobham squad got fired up and took the game to the charity sidewith some neat passing between the forwards of Josh and Arron, to allow Billy to break and put Adam Hanline in for the opening try.   Teapotone came back with route 1 rugby, but the defence held strong, tiring out the charity side, with Cobham within touching distance of the cup with a 12-5 lead at half time.  Another score would secure the win with Teapotone looking tired and unlikely to break down a solid defensive line.  Adam Hanline took it upon himself to finish the game off, with 2 fantastic solo effort tries using his pace to take him around the weak tackles, taking his try tally to 12 for the day. 

For Adams great effort of 12 tries, he won the award for highest try scorer of the day just pipping the speedster from Kingston to the trophy. 

Callum Stott along with the rest of the squad then picked up their winners medals and the Teapotone Charity 7s cup to round off a fantastic day for the side. 

Squad

1. Callum Stott ©
2. Arron Smyth
3. Robert Frost
4. Josh Brown
5. David Baker
6. Ryan Saunders
7. Jean-Louis Gravier
8. Adam Watkins
9. Billy Bates
10. Adam Hanline

Saturday 16th June saw another fantastic celebration of life at Cobham rugby with over 340 people wining and dining in Manhattan style. Our huge collective thanks go to the Ball committee:

Alyson Bayley

Suz Oliver

Samantha Myers

Susan Malcolm

Sarah Evans

Claire Merry

very ably led by Susie Martinez who put on a wonderful evening for us all.

• To see a short video from the evening, courtesy of Vanilla Bean, click here

As is usual, the annual Value The Volunteer Awards were announced where all the club pay homage to those volunteers who selflessly put so much into the running of the club. The 2012 awards went to:

2012

• President’s Award – David Williams
• Senior Section Award – Colin Johnson
• Youth Section Award - Tony Morrison
• Mini Section Award - Anthony Van Hoffen
• Club Members' Award - Gian Franco Cencelli

 It is a simple set of awards but very heartfelt and our way of saying 'Thank you' to the few who do so much for the many.

For a list of past recipients of the awards click here

On Friday 29th June, over 140 gathered at the clubhouse to enjoy an evening with Brian Moore, the celebrated rugby player, TV commentator, wine buff - and as we heard - qualified manicurist. A fascinating evening's discussion with questions or all genres being put to Brian who eloquently responded to the audience. Thank you Brian. You can follow Brian's musings on Twitter @TAFKAbrianmoore

The evening also saw the presentation of the Senior Section Value the Volunteer Award to the long suffering (at least for those around his melodic Welshness) Colin Johnson. Congratulations CJ and thank you.

The evening was also about raising funds for two worthwhile charities - OASIS Childcare and Elmbridge Community Link - along with supporting the investment in the club's new pitches. We raised over £3,550 through the auction and a further £795 from the raffle. Well done to everyone involved especially Rosemary Bailey for organising it all.

Children's Diabetes Charity thanks Cobham RFC for a Whopping £ 21,000 Donation for Type 1 Research

Cobham Rugby Club has received warm hearted thanks from JDRF (the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) for supporting the JDRF Calendar 2011. The ambitious project raised over £27,000 through sponsorship, sales and other attention-seeking activities with a net £ 21,000 being donated to the charity, JDRF.

The charity has received a substantial sum in hard cash but will benefit more from the intangible effects of increased awareness for it's own research activities and type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an auto-immune disease that strikes suddenly and leaves children dependent on multiple injections of insulin a day with the need for constant blood sugar monitoring. It has debilitating consequences and needs vital funding for research to find the cure.

The striking images taken by Ross McLennan of 15 of our guys from Cobham Rugby Club attracted attention all over the country. Over 40 Waterstones branches stocked the calendar as far afield as Glasgow, Birmingham and Bristol as well as numerous branches in Surrey. Local newspapers picked up the story including the Stirling Observer, the Blackpool Gazette and Surrey titles such as the Herald etc. Several celebrities endorsed the calendar including Philip Schofield, Annabel Croft and Graeme Le Saux while Cheryl Cole and Louise Redknapp are keeping their views close to their chests. Several glossy magazines also featured our boys who were presented as role models highlighting fitness, nutrition and lifestyle choices. And 107.8FM Radio Jackie interviewed Billy Davison and were very generous with their plugs for this worthy cause.

A BIG thank you to everyone at the Club who supported the project including the 15 Boys who were very generous with their time and support, the Bar Staff, the Team Managers and Key Individuals who made a significant contribution to the project's success.  Over £2,000 was raised at the club and hopefully this contribution to type 1 research will be the one that finds the cure. 25,000 kids in the UK are hoping just that!

If you would like to make a donation you can still do so online at www.justgiving.com/jdrfcalendar2011 or on any of the guys sites at www.justgiving.com/January-Man ... www.justgiving.com/February-Man etc.

This season match reports continue to be authored by Paul Hickson who is a Partner at Seniors' sponsor Menzies, to whom we are as ever hugely endebted. If you like Paul's creative writing, you should also try his creative accounting...

You don't have to be an Accountant to interpret numbers when its a  69-0 score line.

Despite the loss to Tonbridge Juddians on Saturday the Cobham team and guests had an excellent time on Sunday February 20th at the 2011 Long Lunch.
 
A big thanks to everyone who attended. With special thanks to Tony Diprose as our special guest and all the club sponsors who attended.

 
Thanks also to JP and his crew at Le Petit Nantais for hosting us again, their french cuisine was again excellent.

Congratulations to Jack Clifford who started at No 8 for England U18 v Italy U19 at Sale on Sunday 27th February 2011.

The game ended with a 9 try rout with a scoreline of 64-0.

Jack, also associated with Harlequins, has been with Cobham Youth Rugby for many years.

Well done Jack - the first of many no doubt

Cobham were looking to make it 3 home wins on the bounce after last weekends away loss to league leaders Tonbridge Juddians.
 
All the sore heads from last Sundays enjoyable long lunch had cleared up and the focus was on getting a good result against Wimbledon after losing at their place earlier in the season.
 
There was a last minute change to the team, Joe Goddard who had returned from his travels had a hamstring injury so Billy Davison came off the bench to start and Leo Coates came in on the bench.
 
The weather conditions on the day were rather wet and muddy for running rugby. But from the kick off Cobham received the ball, Leon taking the catch and popping off to full back Oli Brown who hit gap and took play up over half way before off-loading to the supporting Charlie Rooke who was tackled just before the line. Cobham recycled the ball taking play into the opposite corner were Rob Kennard saw a gap to score the 1st try.
 
Wimbledon restarted the match Cobham taking the catch and taking play into the Wimbledon half, a chip behind the Wimbledon defence from Luke Flower for Charlie Rooke to gather and beat the covering defence and score in the corner.
 
Score 10-0 to Cobham
 
A blood injury to Arran Cowell saw Will Avery come on in the centre for 5 minutes whilst physio Dave sorted the Captain out, then an injury to Wing Billy Bates saw him come off as Skipper Cowell came back on so Will Avery then moved onto the Wing.
 
Cobham then gave away a couple of penalties in a 10 minute period to give Wimbledon their first points. Cobham 10 Wimbledon 6
 
Cobham were putting some good phases of play together which saw the forwards get in on the act of scoring. With Cobham camped on the Wimbledon 22, from the line out a catch and drive was scored by Matt Johnson for Cobham's 3rd try.
 
Half Time Cobham 15 Wimbledon 6
 
Cobham kicked the 2nd half off deep towards the  club house putting presure straight away on Wimbledon, from a Cobham Scrum Matt Johnson was driven over for the 1st score of the 2nd half.
 
Cobham 20 Wimbledon 6
 
Despite the wet and muddy conditions Cobham where playing some of the best rugby they have played all season and break down the right wing by Charlie Rooke had him score in the corner taking the score to Cobham 25 Wimbledon 6.
 
Wimbledon looked to clear their lines but Oli Brown who'd had an excellent match all day  took the high ball from deep and chipping into space and gathered the ball back only to be tackled short of the line but patience from the Cobham forwards had Leon driven over for Cobham's 6th try, which was converted by Luke Flower. Cobham 32 Wimbledon 6.
 
With 65 minutes gone a change was made with the versatile Tristan Lee coming on for Leon who had another excellent game in the backrow. 

Cobham had the final move of the match, on the attack again Luke Flower found a gap in the Wimbledon defence to go over and score Cobham's final try. Luke Converting his try to make the final score 39-6.
 
This young Cobham side have come along way since the start of the season and the new combinations are coming together. The pack had an excellent match with the new backrow combination of Leon, Matt Johnson and Doug Rodman playing exceptionally well. With 3 home wins on the bounce Cobham are growing in confidence.
 
With only 5 matches of the season left, next week is another big match at home to Haywards Heath all support is very welcome.
 
Cobham Team
 
1 Andy Alexander
2 Chris Gibbons
3 Paul Mayer
4 Tom Webb
5 Billy Davison
6 Doug Rodman
7 Matt Johnson
8 Leon Van Niekerk
9 Rob Kennard
10 Luke Flower
11 Billy Bates
12 Richard Jackson
13 Arran Cowell (Captain)
14 Charlie Rooke
15 Oli Brown
 
16 Tristan Lee
17 Leo Coates
18 Will Avery
 
Rob Kennard 1 try
Charlie Rooke 2 tries
Matt Johnson 2 tries
Leon Van Niekerk 1 try
Luke Flower 1 try 2 Conversions

A great night attended by roughly 80 people! Lots of cheers, lots of tears, and lots of alcohol and food consumed (catered by the always delicious Vanilla Bean)!

A big thank you to everyone who attended and all who sponsored the event - without your ongoing support the night would not have been such a great success! 

And also a HUGE THANK YOU to the Social Committee for organising the event! They managed to raise £465 for the Rugby Club from this event (well done)!

Bring on the next Social Event…… 

On a great day for The Club with 3 sides at home and all 3 sides winning the 1st XV played their part edging in a tight and entertaining match against Haywards Heath.
 
Cobham gave final appearance to youngsters Joe Goddard and James MacDonald before they head off to play rugby in Australia and senior players Richard Nunn and Kevin Fisher returned to the starting line up.

Cobham started off from where they finished last week with Cobham on the attack straight from the kick off and almost scoring out wide. The Cobham got a long range penalty but this unfortunately this went wide of the posts.
 
'Heath' then took their opportunity from midfield to get the ball wide to score a converted try.
 
Leon was taking the ball up into the heart of Heaths defence and causing them problems with his breaks off the scrum. which was leading to a high penalty count which Cobham took advantage of to brink Cobham within one point of Heath from 2 Luke Flower penalties.
 
Ten minutes from the end of the half Cobham pressurized the Heath line and, with Heath conceding a number of penalties for offences on the ground, they received a general warning for repeated infringement. Then from a five metre scrum which Heath were penalized for standing up in the scrum and the ref awarded Cobham a penalty try which Luke Flower converted. 
  
Then just before half time Heath scored their 2nd try out wide, the conversion missed.
  
A half time change saw the introduction of Simon Ackroyd in the backrow for Doug Rodman and Cobham started the 2nd half well and from an attack inside the Cobham half the ball passing through a number of hands for a good try finished off out wide by full back Oli Brown. 
  
The Cobham pack were taking full advantage in the scrums to lay a platform for the backs to attacked. Joe Goddard in his first and final match of the season after coming back from travelling and then heading off after the match to Australia was running the line out well.
 
Fresh legs were brought on for Cobham, Robbie Kennard who had another good game came off for Will Avery. The Cobham defence was defending well and it wasn't until the 75th minute that Heath got a 3rd try out wide to take back the lead to 20-18.
 
Cobham didn't panic and got themselves back into the heath half where heath conceded a penalty. Luke Flower kicking deep into Heaths 22 and from the line out heath conceded another penalty which Luke Flower took full advantage of to kick Cobham into a 21-20 lead and win the match.
 
This was another good performance by Cobham who are learning and gaining in confidence from every match. Next week Cobham have another tough fixture away at Portsmouth. All support welcome ...

 
1 Andy Alexander
2 Chris Gibbons
3 Richard Nunn
4 Joe Goddard
5 Billy Davison
6 Doug Rodman
7 Matt Johnson
8 Leon Van Niekerk
9 Rob Kennard
10 Luke Flower
11 James MacDonald
12 Arran Cowell (Captain)
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Charlie Rooke
15 Oli Brown
 
16 Paul Mayer
17 Simon Ackroyd
18 Will Avery

At the RFU Inter Divisional U18 matches over the weekend of 18th-20th February at Broadstreet RFC near Coventry, Tom Harty and Tom Bliss started at 15 and 9 respectively for London and South East division. They played North Div and narrowly lost 35-34 having dominated the game for most part but both lads played well, with Bliss scoring the opening try.

On Sunday 20th they played Midlands and came away winners, 17-5, Tom Harty having a particularly strong game.

The RFU use the games as an opportunity to select for the England U18 Clubs & Schools XV. There were also a number of premiership club scouts attending.

As a result, Tom Harty has been selected as part of the sqaud of 22 which will train in the lead up to playing Ireland U18 Clubs side in Dublin on April 10th. Tom Bliss is on 'standby' as a reserve to the squad, no mean feat in itself.

Congratulations to both lads for not only representing the London & SE Division but also for getting selected for the differing roles with England.

In other news... Surrey U15 have announced that Sam Cordery has been selected as Captain (a fantastic and well deserved accolade) and Adam Bolton is a reserve.

Sunday 27th February 2011 saw the grand opening of the new BBQ Hut at Cobham which will provide a huge boost to passing trade whilst watching or after playing sport at Cobham.

Supported by the very generous sponsorship of Cargill, Lionel Frewin our Club President, has been cajoling and influencing in a way that only he can to get the BBQ Hut up and running for business during the fallow months of winter. And now that spring is here (surely it is so?) this fantastic facility will allow nutritious food to be served nearer to the point of need - right by the side of the pitches.

Anyone for a burger?

Cobham travelled to Portsmouth missing a number of players from last weeks match against Haywards Heath. In the frontrow Paul Mayer stepped into hooker, Rob Frost came into the 2nd row and a all new back row of Josh Brown, Simon Ackroyd at flanker and the versatile Tristan Lee at No 8.
 
Knowing this match could be key to how the rest of the season could play out Cobham looked to take the momentum from the wins at home onto the road.
 
Cobham looked to start well and take play deep into the Portsmouth half but after a few minutes and against the run of play Portsmouth got a lucky bounce of the ball to take the 1st points and score a converted try. 7-0 Portsmouth.
 
From the re start Cobham put pressure on the portsmouth defence and from a Line out a catch and drive had Richard Nunn Score Cobham's 1st try, converted out wide by Luke Flower. 7-7
 
With Cobham deep in the Portsmouth half they got a penalty which Luke Flower Converted to take Cobham into the lead. 
Kevin Fisher then got Cobham's next try as the ball went wide he beat the cover defence to go over in the corner. 15-7 Cobham
 
Cobham were dominating the scrum, and Simon Ackroyd was back to his best carrying the ball forward from scrum. From one of these breaks Billy Davison was in support to go over for his 1st try of the season, converted by Luke Flower. 22-7 Cobham
 
With Cobham dominating the scrum a Portsmouth forward was yellow carded. The Lineout was also working well with Paul Mayer throwing accurately in his 1st match at hooker this season.
 
Davison was to get a 2nd try as the forwards and backs linked with Ackroyd again leading the way to put Davison over the line for Cobhams 4th try. Converted by Luke Flower to send Cobham in at half time 29-7 up.
 
Cobham had controlled the majority of the 1st half, but the 1st 15 minutes of the 2nd half Cobham had a lapse in Concentration allowing Portsmouth back in the match. 1st a penalty to Portsmouth 29-10 then 2 quick tries in the corner 29-20.
 
Cobham conceded a number of team penalties in the red zone and Oli Brown was the unfortunate one the get the yellow card.
With Cobham down to 14 men Portsmouth looked to take the man advantage and scored another try 29-25.
 
This was a big wake up call for Cobham and with Cobham finally getting their hands on the ball a scrum deep in the Portsmouth 22 had Josh Brown over to take the score to 34-25.
 
Portsmouth were to close the gap again converting a penalty to bring the score to 34-28. But Cobham were not going to let this match slip away and Cobham's final 2 tries came again from the scrum with Simon Ackroyd going over and Luke Flower converting one 46-25. But Portsmouth to their credit were to have the final word of the match scoring write at the end to take the score to 46-33.
 
Cobham will be happy to be winning away from home and getting 5 points as they go into a week's break, but will looking to tighten their defence when they host Chichester on 26th March.

But with 3 games to go and their place now secure for next season Cobham will be looking to climb the league table as high as they can.
 
Cobham
 
1 Andy Alexander
2 Paul Mayer
3 Richard Nunn
4 Rob Frost
5 Billy Davison
6 Josh Brown
7 Simon Ackroyd
8 Tristan Lee
9 Rob Kennard
10 Luke Flower
11 Charlie Rooke
12 Arran Cowell (Captain)
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Chris Moreton
15 Oli Brown
 
16 Callum Stott
17 Martin Green
18 Adam Hanline
 
Richard Nunn 1 try
Kevin Fisher 1 try
Josh Brown 1 try
Billy Davison 2 tries
Simon Ackroyd 2 tries
Luke Flower 1 Penalty 4 Conversions

To show our appreciation of the excellent service given to the 1^st team and its travelling supporters, President Lionel Frewin presented a club tie and sweater to Lance, our long time coach driver, before he drove the team to Portsmouth on Saturday, March 12th.

Lance has driven the team for the past two season and has become a staunch supporter of the club.

New surfacing of the car parking area, which was completed this weekend, will make for a much smoother ride at the Clubhouse side of the ground.

Special thanks to Melvin Jennings of Jennings Surfacing for their excellent organisation and quality.

However, drivers coming in from the Fairmile Road entrance need to know that for added safety we have installed two speed humps on the drive, which caught out a number of the high speed drivers that came down the drive this weekend!

This Saturday 2^nd April brings together most of those who played in the unbeaten season of 1963-1964 culminating in a run of 58 unbeaten games on the trot. A celebratory lunch is being held at the Club.

The unbeaten season of 1963/1964 has become one of the high points of the Old Surbitonians Rugby Football Club’s history. The side had an exciting mixture of senior club members and young players from the highly successful school sides of Surbiton County Grammar during the 1950’s and early 1960’s.

Of the 31 games played, 27 were won and 4 drawn.  In the process 534 points were scored with only 126 points against. The side had all-round talent and a great depth of reserves that could blend in the team at any opportunity. The team has been described by neutral observers as devastating in attack and unyielding in defence. The Captain was Tony Stephenson who led the side from prop for three years from 1962 to 1965, aggressive and strong both in play and encouragement, especially to the younger player – ‘if you are good enough, you are old enough’. In total taking into account of the 1962/1963 and 1964/65 season the first fifteen were undefeated for 58 consecutive matches.

We sincerely look forward to welcoming the old stalwarts of nearly 50 years ago back to the club and hope that you have a really enjoyable lunch meeting with both old and new faces.

So you are one of the regulars who come to the Cobham web site at least once a week. Good on you – but you are not alone, you’ll be glad to hear.

Not surprisingly we collect and collate stats of the usage of the website and it’s rather revealing. If that sort of stuff is not your bag, stop reading and put the kettle on.

Over the past 5 months of the season, the site has had nigh on 46,000 visits (up 5% on same period last year), making 200,000 ‘page views’ (collective term for the number of pairs of eyeballs on the pages within the site) and on average you view 4.4 pages per visit. What this means is that people are interested in the club, what is going on there, and don’t just dip in and dip out again. That has been our objective – to make it interesting for all sections of the club whether it’s Johnny scoring a try for the U8s or the First XV’s progress in the league.

So which pages get read the most? It’s a three way tie on this front – between the ‘This Weekend’ section, Minis section and the Youth section; however the referee's decision is that Youth get the rosette by dint of a whopping 32% increase in views over the same period last year (Minis were up 5% and This Weekend was flat).

Another staggeringly interesting stat (well not really – it’s a dry old topic this) is that there are over 16,000 unique visitors to the site, up almost 9%, so it's fair to suggest that there are the core Cobham readers then all the opposition come to the site and see what they are up against.

Where do our viewers come from? Naturally, most page views are from the UK (93%) but we have readers from USA, South Africa, and Australia too. The biggest jump in page views from another country is from Thailand – Thailand?? Explain that.

OK that’s enough. But thank you for reading, not only this mind-numbing drivel, but also your website with your stories about your club. Keep them coming.

Kettle boiled yet?

Rory & Roy

The Cobham Floodlit Tag Rugby Festival was held on Friday, 18 March 2011 for Under 7 and Under 8 teams.  The aim of the festival was to provide an opportunity to children who hadn’t had a chance to play in many festivals a chance to take part and, of course, for the players to have fun and enjoy rugby played in the right spirit!
 
We had 13 teams turn out from 7 clubs in total, namely Chobham, Cobham, Guildford, London Irish, Reeds, Sutton & Epsom and Teddington.  Although the conditions were wet underfoot the rain had cleared by the time the festival got underway at 6 pm and some very entertaining rugby was played by all.  
 
The winners of the various competitions were as follows:
 
U7 Cup - Cobham1 beat Chobham in the play-off
U7 Plate - Guildford beat Reeds in the play-off
U7 Bowl - Cobham2 had a walkover against Teddington for the play-off
 
U8 Cup - Cobham2 beat London Irish1  in the play-off
U8 Plate - Reeds1 beat London Irish2 in the play-off
U8 Bowl - Cobham2 beat Reeds2 in the play-off
 
It was particularly pleasing to see the spirit in which the players played their matches (and also the spirit in which the teams were supported) - all in all a great success.

On Saturday April 2^nd, the Cobham U18 side will be taking on the Independent Schools Barbarians team – essentially made up of those lads that are not in national squads from England and Scotland – you could say the ‘best of the rest’. This will be a tough challenge but we’ve been up against challenges before and overcome them.

When the idea for the game was dreamt up we didn’t realise that the team would be without 10 of their top squad – either long term injury, School Sevens or on International duty. That said it will be a fun game of rugby as the BaaBaas are soon to depart off on Tour.

The match will kick off at 3pm. There is a big lunch on upstairs in the club for the unbeaten Cobham / Old Surbitonians sides of 1963-64 hosted by the Braemar Club. We’ll have the downstairs bar open before the game and the BBQ is to be open too.

So why not come and support the lads and have a few beers at the same time? Should be a great game and plenty of socialising too.

A busy weekend for Cobham U18 Internationals Jack Clifford and Tom Flynn.

Jack Clifford was playing for England U18 v Scotland and scored the first try at Headingley Carnegie, Leeds on Sunday 27th March in a narrow loss to Scotland 21-26. For the  match report click here. That's Jack's second try in as many outings for England.

And at the same time Tom Flynn was enjoying life in Berlin playing for Ireland U18 Clubs and Schools side against Germany, a game in which Tom scored in a 54-0 romp. For a match report click here.

Well done guys.

This season match reports continue to be authored by Paul Hickson who is a Partner at Seniors' sponsor Menzies, to whom we are as ever hugely endebted. If you like Paul's creative writing, you should also try his creative accounting...

Writing match reports for Cobham hasn't been a particularly hazardous pastime, avoiding a player bundled into touch, the odd sliced kick, emails from refs unhappy with reported comments, all pretty lightweight stuff but none of these was adequate preparation for what transpired at the Memorial Grounds last Saturday, read on…

Cobham (wearing their reverse red shirts) had three consecutive wins and five out of the last six before this match. They therefore went into this match with some confidence, although they had made a couple of changes:- Kevin Fisher wore the 12 shirt,  Chris Moreton, a rather too large number 18, (because the number 13 shirt has gone missing), Luke Flower was on County duty for Dorset & Wiltshire, Matt Johnson had an ankle injury and Nunny was now sporting a cast in respect of the arm he didn't know he had broken during the Portsmouth win two weeks ago !

Chichester (The Blues), unbeaten in their last 12 games, came to Cobham looking not just for another win, but also bonus points as they chase down London Irish for an opportunity to reach the Play Offs.  Their desire and passion was apparent in the first ten minutes as they threw everything they had at Cobham in looking to secure that all important first score. Simon Ackroyd and Adam Hanline showed the way for Cobham with some crunching tackles and after Chichester failed to convert a penalty, slowly but surely Cobham started to take the game into the Chichester half.

The Blues appeared to want the win too much and their determination was being penalised by the Ref, cue Captain Cowell to secure the first and what was to prove to be only points of the half, 3-0.

A re -analysis of the play would probably confirm a significant element resting with the forwards and the scrums were being hotly contested. It was from a turned scrum that Cobham gained the initiative to launch an assault on the Chichester line culminating in a disallowed try for Chris Gibbons adjudged to have been 'held up'  (which with his low centre of gravity was a pretty impressive feat.)

The Chichester frustration at not being able to boss the game was evident as they approached half time, without having scored and this resulted in a yellow card for number 11 Ed Armah. Just when you thought the half had finished the Ref blew for a Chichester penalty, however it was a penalty kick that was never to be taken because at that point 'it all kicked off'.

An altercation between two players on the wing transported itself into the supporter group off the pitch and before you could say “Kate Adie” your match reporter  became a war correspondent.  It wasn't pretty but once some calm had been restored the Ref took the decision to yellow card a player from each side and took the unusual but commendable decision to send both teams to their changing rooms to cool down.

When both sides returned  for the second half (Cobham had 14 players, Chichester 13) it was immediately apparent that the time out had benefited Chichester because, although a man down, they achieved the try they had been looking for and converted, the score line was 3-7.

However just to show that this wasn't going to be the pattern for the second half Cobham returned to the Clubhouse end. The Cobham line outs were a particularly strength all afternoon with Chris Gibbons always finding his men, Billy Davison and  Doug Rodman, and it was from  a line out that Cobham drove towards the try line ending in a push over try for Chris Moreton, (you don't expect to see a centre being the last one up with the ball).

Chichester came back again and having initially been floored by an immense tackle by Billy Davison, in the subsequent play fly half Smallman cross kicked for the Blue's substitute winger to feed Adam to go over in the corner 8-12.

There were passages of play at this time which left the Ref with no alternative, when they broke down, to stop his watch as players were littered across the pitch (it’s always been slightly worrying that Cobham play on the 'Memorial' grounds) and the next 10 minutes were all Cobham as they maintained pressure on the Chichester line. All due credit to Chichester for stopping them cross the line as that was to be the key passage of play that decided the game.

With the pressure removed the Blues were once again attacking the Cobham line and they succeeded in breaking through for their flanker Johnson to increase the lead to 8-17 and winning a rare scrum against the head Captain Moses Kasuija pounced on the ball to score in the corner 8-22 . Never has a bonus point been so well celebrated. Smallman (he is anything but) kicked the conversion 8-24 and that's how it finished.

Cobham made Chichester work very hard for this win who trail London Irish by one point with two games to go. Cobham remain safe on 50 points equal to their next opponents, Hove in two weeks time.

Over 300 Cobham Rugby supporters and players from the Mini & Youth sections attended the Harlequins v Newcastle LV Cup Semi-final on Friday 11th March, providing the 'guard of honour' and half-time entertainment with friendly matches from the U11s, U12s, U13s and U14s.

A great day was had by all at Fairmile Lane last Sunday. It was the sixth youth 10s festival and we were very grateful for youth sponsors, the Oman Ministry of Tourism, who sponsored the event and all our other sponsors and advertisers.  There was a feast of running rugby, sunshine, burgers, a raffle and guest appearances by two Harlequins players Chris York and our very own Cobham old boy George Lowe.  The final results were:

This season match reports continue to be authored by Paul Hickson who is a Partner at Seniors' sponsor Menzies, to whom we are as ever hugely endebted. If you like Paul's creative writing, you should also try his creative accounting...

You know the Season is coming to an end when you are watching rugby in shorts, you need to wear sunglasses to observe the proceedings and panama hats are on view.

Hove RFC play on pitches on the Recreation grounds and in brilliant sunshine a match between two teams, both having achieved a half century of league points, attracted a large crowd including many Braemar club members who had made the trip from Cobham.

When Hove came to Cobham  a couple of months ago Cobham were 20- 8 ahead before Hove's Eubank completed a hat trick of tries for them only for them to still  narrowly lose 23-20. Tom was therefore pleased to see that Eubank was missing from the Hove line up on this occasion.

Cobham had Richard Jackson at full back and Sam Waite at scrum half as their main changes from their encounter two weeks and they were hoping to achieve their first win in Sussex having previously lost to Hayward's Heath and Chichester.

Cobham started strongly having been pumped up before the match by Dave 'Shades' Silver but after 15 minutes,  Hove having missed one penalty, were successful with the second making the score line  3-0, although the electronic scoreboard  showed it as 0-0.

It was always going to be a close fought match, given the league table positions, but Dave was concerned that Hove were 'out motivating' Cobham. Not sure 'out motivating' is a verb or an adverbial phrase for that matter but Captain Cowell understood what it meant and provided the on field encouragement.

Excellent inter passing by the Cobham back line including a break from Richard Jackson put Hove under pressure but strong defending stopped Cobham regaining the lead. After a period of sustained forward pressure it was the forwards who achieved the try that was needed when Doug Rodman took a quick tap penalty to dive over the line. Luke Flower converted and after 30 minutes Cobham were 3-7 in front and soon after Hove having provided some back chat to the Ref, conceded 10 metres, to assist Flower to add a penalty 3-10 at half time. Hove started the second half strongly and a cross kick from their scrum half 'Buddha' Golding was well collected by winger Hale to secure a score in the corner. Well converted by Golding the scores were level 10-10 ( the electronic scoreboard showed 0-0).

Cobham were not to be intimidated and promptly responded with a tremendous drive forwards by Ackers, breaking several tackles, to set up a ball that was fed to 'Fish' for a try under the posts which Flower converted 10-17.

With just 10 minutes to go a penalty was awarded to Cobham which was well converted into points by Flower and the much needed two scores difference had been achieved 10-20.

Everyone thought that was going to be enough, everyone except Hove, because in the space of the last 10 minutes they scored three tries and converted two to secure a comeback victory they had just failed to achieve at Cobham 29-20 ( and the Electronic scoreboard, well, that was still showing 0-0, a score line Cobham would have probably preferred).

Cobham will take heart from the Development XV result winning 32-20 against Hove 2nd XV with four Youth players Richard Philips, Pete Saunders, Jonny Russell and Max Peacock making their senior debuts

With just one home match remaining against an already relegated Tunbridge Wells,Cobham will want to end their Season on a high.

1 Andy Alexander

2 Ed Turner

3 Paul Mayer

4 Tristan Lee

5 Billy Davison

6 Josh Brown

7 Simon Ackroyd

8 Doug Rodman

9 Sam Waite

10 Luke Flower

11 Charlie Rooke

12 Arran Cowell (Captain)

13 Kevin Fisher

14 Chris Moreton

15 Richard Jackson

16 Callum Stott

17 Leo Coates

18 Nick Sutton

The stuff that film scripts are made of.

Saturday 2^nd April was a momentous day for Cobham. Dining in the club were 140 club members past and present celebrating the unbeaten season of 1963/64 and the string of 58 unbeaten games by what were then the Old Surbitonians, forerunner to Cobham Rugby.

The speeches gave a flavour of what the team was about almost 50 years ago, the passion and flair of a side that epitomised amateur rugby of the day. Perhaps the most moving speech was by 92 year old Alan Bolt, a former school master at Surbiton Grammar who spoke most eloquently about his time at the school, talking of the purchase of the ground after the war to remember those who gave their lives. He also spoke about the importance of friendship, which was the foundation stone of the Braemar Club who put on the day’s event.

In Back to the Future style, springing forward to the present day, the current unbeaten U18 Cobham side who have won every league game since the age of U11 provided on-field entertainment playing the Independent Schools Barbarians in a game true to the style of the BaaBaas with minimal kicking and strong running rugby. Having lost 12 players to a mixture of International duty, school sevens, and Daily Mail final, the lads put on a magnificent show of team strength and in a close fought game came out victors 37-31.

So as the script came to a fitting end, two groups of Cobham “Unbeaten” gathered for a team photo beneath the posts in front of the Peter Marsh Pavilion. As the U18 team Captain noted in his post match speech, maybe in 50 years to come the young ones will get together and take lunch, epitomising the strength of the Cobham friendship bond which lives on today as strong as it did in 1963/64.

The guys whose names are inscribed In Memoriam above the bar would have been proud. As would Peter Marsh as his legacy lives on.

A very big Thank you from the Social Committee to everyone who helped makes the day a huge success!

Vanilla Bean kindly supported the event and set the scene from the outset by serving delicious canapés on arrival along with a glass of chilled Prosecco.

The Lunch was suburb and very professionally presented by the Vanilla Bean team.   Alongside the gastrononique delights the Ladies were able to enjoy some relaxed retail therapy and peruse and purchase from a wide variety of stalls and the atmosphere in the room buzzed with laughter and chat!

The raffle helped us raise the very fine total of £400 for the Rugby Club and the Stall holders had kindly donated items which contributed to a varied array of prizes which were won by the room members. Everyone’s kind generosity obviously helped us achieve this sum so again a very big Thank you.

However the emphasis of the day was firmly captured by Lionel Frewin (president of the club) who delivered a very warm and heart felt speech to the Ladies thanking us all for everything that we do for the Club. It was truly a lovely speech and I think all the ladies in the room felt in some way touched by his kind remarks.

We think now that following on from the success of the day that it will be a date firmly in the Rugby Club Social Events Calendar; so watch this space. Thank you all again Ladies and on behalf of the Social Committee we wish you all a very Happy Easter.
- Caroline, Mel, Liza, Dino, Claire and Carrie

Tom Harty and Tom Flynn, both Cobham regulars with the U18 team, met on opposing sides in an U18 International Match on Sunday 10^th April in Dublin. Tom Harty played for England U18 Schools and Clubs and Tom Flynn played for Ireland U18 Clubs.

Both lads were selected to play on the right wing for their respective sides so thankfully did not have to directly oppose each other, but obviously played at close quarters for much of the match.

In a very exciting match which was drawn 23-23, both lads gave a very good account of themselves running strongly and creating opportunities , adding to the excitement for the crowd of hundreds with characteristic Cobham flair and tenacity .

Both boys were capped by their respective countries in separate ceremonies and look forward to do battle on the SAME side a Cobham during the remainder of the season.

Well done to them both on their well deserved honours.

This Sunday 1st May, the U18 side will be playing their last game together at home against Esher in the Surrey Youth league.

Fresh from beating the Independent Schools Barbarians (who then went on tour and beat Zimbabwe U19) and after 9 players contributed to the U21 team in the Surrey U21 Cup Final, this quite exceptional squad of guys will be looking to maintain an unbeaten run in the Surrey Leagues that stretches back some 7 years to U11 when they first won the Surrey League.

On display will be an array of talent that includes no less than 6 International players plus Divisional and County players too. But that belies the strength in depth within the squad that has meant they have produced both A and B sides in Surrey U18 League One at the same time.

The Bar will be open so if you have had enough of weddings, bank holidays and DIY come on down to the Club for what should be a cracking game of rugby against strong opposition from local rivals Esher.

Kick off is 1pm. Many of the team will bring ID with them if you fancied buying them a beer afterwards. Only one mind, as they have A levels looming :-)

Cobham U8s tour to the Isle of Wight on the 9th and 10th April was a huge success both on and off the pitch.

The large and well run Vectis minis festival consisted of 20 Under teams in the U8 age group across 4 pitches. Cobham came away as winners of the Cup (joint) and Plate. The three Cobham cross ability teams played 20 games, winning 16, drawing 3 and losing only 1. Two Cobham teams were a losing coin toss away from facing each other in the main Cup final.

Amongst the off pitch highlights were the Tour Court, presided over by Judge Franks, which was the first on record to be held al fresco in the middle of the Solent. The Throwing Away Of The Tags ceremony was also especially enjoyed by the tourists.

A full tour report and photos are to follow, after appropriate censorship required by the Tour Rules of course!

Update Monday 11th

A close fought game in glorious sunshine saw Essex come out on top - just - winning 21-19.

A picture of the 6 Cobham lads below:

Left to Right
Matias Galuccio (U16s) Richard Hutton, Harry Green (U16s), David Ginty, Jordan Burns, Robbie McDonald

This Sunday 10th April, no less than six Cobham boys have been selected for the Surrey U17 side (by far the largest representation of any club) to play Essex at Brentwood RFC which includes 2 lads from the Cobham U16s - so a year young.

Harry Green

Jordan Burns

Richard Hutton

David Ginty

Robbie Macdonald

Matias Gallucio

Well done lads and play hard for Surrey.

Under sunny skies, the U6s banked a cup for the Cobham trophy cabinet on their first ever outing beating Rosslyn Park in the final 5-4.

A big thanks to Reeds who were great hosts. Special thanks to the referees who were very helpful and understanding of this being the first festival for all the players.

Cobham beat Tunbridge Wells 61-24 at Fairmile Lane today, April 16th, to end the season on a high.

The 1sts, in unfamiliar claret 'away' strip, dominated the 1st half and built up a hefty lead and then saw out the second half to finish the year with a well worked victory.

Full match report click here.

Update Sunday 25th

Cobham's U21 side played Richmond in the Surrey U21 Cup final at Esher RFC on Sunday 24th April on a pitch with some grass for a change. A close fought match with Cobham leading for 90% of the game, sadly they lost out 25-18 at the final whistle.

However to get to a final is no mean feat and should be applauded especially when 9 of the players on the pitch where 17 or 18 year olds.

Match report to follow.

Update Wednesday 20th April

In the Surrey U21 Cup semi final, Cobham U21s played an epic encounter away at Dorking U21 on Wednesday 20^th April ending 36-36 at full time. After consulting with the organisers by mobile phone, the referee asked the teams to play 10 minutes each way of extra time with Cobham ending up 43-39 winners.

The Dorking pack where initially large and dominant with the Cobham backs always fluid and dangerous. A great spectacle for the 150 or so spectators.

As a result Cobham now go through to play Richmond in the Surrey U21 Cup final on Easter Monday playing at Esher RFC with a kick off at 2pm. Do please make the effort to come along and support Cobham in what should be another great game.

Under 21 Cup Semi-final between Dorking and Cobham

Cobham teams enjoyed another successful tour to Breans Sands and the annual Gullivers rugby festival hosted by Burnham-on-Sea rugby club.

U9
Cobham played well as a mixed A/B/C squad against many established A squads and provided tough opposition for those sides in their group. 

U10
The Lions finished as Plate runners-up having won 6 from 7 in their group.
The Tigers won the Bowl competition after winning 5 and drawing 1 in their group.

U11
Cobham were the Bowl winners and throughout the group stages remained unbeaten winning or drawing all of their matches.

U12
Both Cobham teams progressed to the Plate Final after succesful group stages ensuring that 'Cobham' would win the Plate!

For the first time ever, Cobham now have a Mini Tour sponsor in the form of IG Markets. All the 2011 Tour kit was branded with the IG Markets logo this season. Our thanks to them for their support.

• Check here for more news and links to more match reports and photographs later...

I have great delight in conveying the news that Mundays Solicitors have signed as our Main Rugby Sponsor for another 3 years! Cobham is very grateful for their continued support. You will soon see a new Mundays logo and branding on club shirts and at the club.

You could support Mundays in return at their fun run on Tuesday 7th June 2011.

Come along and join the Mundays fun run in Bushy Park and help to support locally based charity -The Princess Alice Hospice- which provides all patient care and support without charge, particularly for end of life adult patients and their families.

The run is only 5k so all the family can join in or you can enter a team - prizes for all winners!  To raise additional funds, there is a cake stall with lots of home baked goodies and treats! 

Please see full details when you click on this link: Mundays Fun run

Mags Davison 
Cobham Sports Sponsorship Manager

Cobham U18 side have just completed another very successful season, becoming Surrey League One Champions for 2010/11. In what may be unprecedented levels of success, they have been champions of Surrey from U11 through to U18 – eight straight seasons in which time they have not lost a game (other than two whilst on tour in South Africa at U16). They cemented their success last season by winning the RFU National U17 Cup beating Bedford 55-3 in the final. This season they have provided both A and B teams in Surrey League One and recently beat the Independent Schools Barbarians 37-31 (the Barbarians then went on to beat Zimbabwe U19 on tour). Nine of the team have also played in the Surrey U21 Cup final.

On Sunday 1st May they beat Esher 28-12 to take the League One title again.

The stats

• Surrey Champions from U11 through to U18
• In Surrey Youth Leagues scored 223 tries, for - 1,867, against -  233
• Both As and Bs in Surrey League One at U18
• Six Internationals
• Seven Divisional players
• Nineteen County players
• L&SE Divisional Cup winners 2010
• National Champions 2010

Well done guys and we look forward to seeing you play for the senior sides next season. 

On Tuesday 10th May, Cobham Youth played a significant part in the Surrey Clubs and Schools awards night held at Twickenham.

Top awards went to Sam Cordery chosen as Player of the Year for U16, with Jordan Burns awarded the same accolade for U17 and Tom Harty for U18. This is the top award for each age group and a testament to the strength of Youth rugby at Cobham. Well done lads.

Surrey Colours were also presented to:

Jack Clifford

Tom Harty

Tom Bliss

Tom Flynn

In addition awards were received for Under 15 Div 2 champions, Under 16 Div 1, and U18 Div 1.

The photo below shows the U18 lads receiving the blue riband award of a Wilkinson Sword.

The lads did try and liberate the sword to bring back to the clubhouse but sadly they were having none of it!

Cobham Seniors finished the season with the annual awards evening on Friday 13th May at the club.

Winners were:

• Seniors Clubman of Season - Matt Lunn
• All Stars Player of Season - Hugh Wilkinson
• 3rd XV Player of Season - Mark Green
• A XV Player of Season - Dave Flower
• 1st XV Player Season - Simon Ackroyd
• Young Player of Season - Joe Goddard
• Supporters Player of Season - Rob Kennard
• 1st XV Players Player of Season - Luke Flower

Other Senior News:

Charlie Rooke Captained Surrey to the National 7's U19's title on Sunday 15th May held at Broad Street Rugby Club in Warwickshire. Surrey beat Warks 48-26 in the final.

County Championship Shield Semi Final - Billy Davison will Captain Surrey away to Cumbria on Saturday 21st May for a place in the Shield Final at Twickenham on Sunday 29th May.

Monday 9^th May 2011

Cobham Sports Association have announced a completion of negotiations approved in principle at an EGM in March 2011 that provides all Cobham Sports members with access to 3 more grass pitches on land formerly used as a golf driving range behind the nearby Fairmile Pub off Portsmouth Road.

This is a very welcome addition to the facilities at Cobham which have been stretched with the increasing numbers of players of several sports but particularly Rugby and Lacrosse.

In an announcement on the same day the RFU had said their funding from Sport England was being reduced by £1m because the numbers of players in England had been reducing. This has not been the case at Cobham and we are delighted to place the club at the forefront of community sport and the provision of excellent opportunities for people of all ages, sizes and genders to enjoy sport and the benefits that brings to all.

For more information click on the Land Development tab to the left of this page where regular updates will be placed.

And the Awards go to...

Everyone that attended this years’ annual Summer Ball will agree that it was an absolutely fantastic evening – brilliantly planned yet again by the Summer Ball Committee. 

The night consisted of scrumptious food prepared by our excellent catering team Vanilla Bean, a tasty and exotic reception drink kindly donated by Pink Pigeon Rum, our fantastic auctioneer who made the evening come alive with his witty and hilarious performance, great music that had everyone on their feet, and who can forget…..the exquisite Can Can Girls (whose outfits and dance routines entertained all for the evening)!!

Thankfully, the weather did not dampen the mood due to the complete stroke of genius (of course) by the committee who decided to add on the new reception bolt to the marquee!

Figures are still being finalised, yet so far the evening managed to raise slightly over £10,000 so a huge thank you everyone who attended, to all the sponsors and donators, to all that purchased prizes, and of course all those who spent lots of money on booze for the night (we greatly appreciate it)!!! 

Special thanks to Katy Cullen, Sally Mitchell, Jo Weston and Michael Thom for being a fantastic Committee, and a huge thanks to Mags Davison who helped with all the sponsorship aspects of the evening! Thank you also to Jane Palliser who put together (once again) a brilliant programme for the evening.

I think we can all agree - Cobham Rugby Club certainly ‘Can Can’ when it comes to our Summer Ball!!

Thank you once again.

Melanie Ingram (Events Manager)

Photos kindly donated by RSC Photography.

The Cobham Under 18 squad have just been awarded the Rugby World Team of the Year for 2010-11.

This is some accolade when you consider that it is the first time it has been awarded to a non-senior team from this prestigious magazine.

There is also an article in this week’s Surrey Advertiser (only the Elmbridge edition) which features the boys.

For those perhaps not so au fait with the publication, Rugby World is allegedly the world’s best selling rugby magazine with a circulation of approximately 40,000 a month and the last audited readership figure of 486,000 readers per issue. The Team of the Year award in past years has gone to the likes of Waterloo RFC – it’s quite a cup and a very special award. Coverage is in the July edition.

A number of people have emailed their congratulations to the lads and to the club. The RFU have even sent a note via Twitter:

Cobham Rugby Club is delighted to announce a major new sponsorship deal with Aspire Investments and Property Developments LLP, the Weybridge based Residential Development Company. As Senior Club sponsor, Aspire is excited at the prospect of working with Cobham and are looking forward to further developing the great synergy that exists between our existing club sponsors, club members and local businesses.

Aspire was founded by award winning businessman Gary Brine to bridge the gap between aspiring to own an amazing home and having one built to exacting standards. Aspire also has a passion for the promotion of sport and set up an Academy which, each year, sponsors three local athletes, enabling them to excel without the pressure of needing to seek funding.

Gary said about the new sponsorship agreement with Cobham Rugby club; " I am delighted to have the opportunity to be part of such an exciting, successful and progressive club. My commitment to youth and sport dovetails neatly with Cobham's strategic direction and I am delighted that Aspire can be involved in local community sport."

We look forward to welcoming Gary and his colleagues from Aspire to Cobham during the season.

Best regards,

Mags Davison

Cobham Sports Association

A big thank you to everyone who attended the hugely successful Sportsman's Dinner on July 2nd with Nick Easter as Guest Speaker.   
  

Well over a hundred club members and their guests enjoyed a meal provided by Vanilla Bean followed by an entertaining question and answer session with Nick. Many then stayed late into the night enjoying the convivial atmosphere! 
  
The raffle and auction raised over £3,500 and as well as supporting the new land project, donations have been made to: 
  
Oasis Childcare, a Cobham based charity which supports local vulnerable children. www.oasischildcare.co.uk/

Elmbridge Community Link who are based in Walton-on-Thames and support adults with learning difficulties including some who live in Cobham. www.localgiving.com/charity/ecl

Daniel's Promise, an orphanage in Uganda which cares for thirty boys. www.danielspromise.org.uk/

In the professionally produced video, our President, Lionel Frewin, explains how Savills have been key to helping us develop our Minis.

"The influence of Savills on what we do here has been absolutely fantastic" says Lionel and the short programme shows some of our Minis training at Fairmile Lane.

Watch here: http://vzaar.com/videos/811015

Cobham took a small but perfectly formed group to Weston Supermare on tour last weekend, August 20th, playing 2 matches, winning against Taunton 2nds and losing to the home team Hornets in the final. Everyone who played put in a great effort and a big thanks to Hornets Rugby Club who were perfect hosts.

 
We now move onto the Pre Season match this week v Staines on Thursday 25th August. Kick off 7.30 at Cobham - all support very welcome.

Cobham U21s win 2011/12 Campaign Opener Against Local Rivals

Saturday 27^th August 2011

Esher RFC U21s: 24     v          Cobham RFC U21s: 29

Cobham U21’s started off the 2011/12 Surrey Competition in the best possible way by beating a strong Esher Academy side, who even at this early stage were already into their third match of the season. Despite many players being unavailable, Cobham were still able to field a very strong squad of 21 players, who on paper were strong individually but the test was always going to be as to how quickly this squad would gel without the benefit of a squad training session or team run through.

To prepare an early meet time was set, two hours prior to KO, in order for the experienced coaching team to get to work with the players. Within this time the wealth of coaching experience combined with the talent that this squad of players undoubtedly has, combined and come 2pm was as ready as they could be to face Esher.

With regards to the actual detail of the match... it is limited in this report, due to the writer being stuck on the M4 for the entire time. However feedback received was that Cobham’s defence, hustle, energy, commitment and skills outshone our opponents and perhaps the final score line could have been greater had the side been together longer and small errors cancelled out. But that’s being too critical and from this performance there are only positives to be taken away from it and to build on for our next too pool games over the Christmas holiday’s.

This season's U21 captain, Josh Brown, was naturally very pleased with the way the match went, and I quote "I am absolutely delighted with the first win of the campaign. We came out all guns blazing and really caused some carnage out on the field. First job done... well done".

The full squad involved in this match was as follows:

Jack Westmoreland-Burns

Matt Rigby

Henry Swindell

Charlie Mortimer

Pete Saunders

Conor Jones

Drew Dewitz

Harry Cairns

Richard Philip

Grant Davis

Joe Goddard

Peter McCallum

Richard Trepant

Max Rowson

Josh Brown (c)

Ross Ketelbey

Murray Shepherd

Cain Stennett

Sam Deucher

Rob Davis

Rhodri Needham

Next U21 fixtures

Saturday 24^th December 2011:    Cobham v Effingham & Leatherhead

Thursday 29^th December 2011:   Cobham v Sutton & Epsom

Cobham lost 32-22 to Basingstoke in a real game of two halves at Fairmile Road, Saturday September 10th. Click here for the 1sts Report

YOUR GROUNDS – YOUR CHANCE!!

If you want to see the new land that Cobham players for years to come could be playing sports on, then come down to the ground on Tuesday 4^th October anytime from 5pm to 9pm.

The Cobham Rugby 1^st Team players will all be down at the new grounds helping a Working Party to clear the grounds of debris in preparation for ground works to begin shortly.

…and the bar will be open for those that develop a thirst!!

Why don’t you come down, park at The Club (Not in Munro House) and come on over to the area behind the Fairmile Pub to see the new grounds and perhaps help by picking up a few bits of rubbish and debris while you’re there – 15 mins or 3 hours it’s up to you – your support will be greatly appreciated!!

As always, please look at the cobhamrfc.com web site for more detail.

 (Please also note that there is no parking available to us at the Fairmile Pub, so please ensure that you only park at the Club)

If you have and feel inclined to bringing some equipment along too then great. Heavy duty gloves, wheelbarrow, secateurs, loppers, rake - if you think it might be useful bring it along.

Whilst we want all members to help, it is probably not appropriate for young children on this occasion.

Change – the only constant. And the Cobham website is no exception.

We already have a vibrant and very useful website, the envy of many other clubs not only because it is so informative but also because it is but one of our prime communication media particularly at a team level.

We took the decision a couple of months ago to improve the way we highlight news and views and have produced a new look front page. It allows for the reader to get a snapshot of what is going on at the club in an easy to read format, yet the body of the web site remains the same once you click through to the “Official Site”.

The three dynamic boxes are changeable so we can highlight any aspect we decide to do for a specific period.

And the right hand 'What's On @ The Club' panel can toggle to show latest Sports & Social information linking to a brand new 'Sporting' Calendar for an at-a-glance view of all activities month on month.

Enjoy viewing the site – do try and have a visit at least once a week and see what is new. We do try and vary the content to appeal to a wide variety of the club membership and most weeks during the season something gets added every couple of days.

Dear Member,

As Chairman of this wonderful club, with the new season upon us, it gives me great pleasure to update you on progress, both on and off the pitch.

Preseason registrations in both Mini and Youth sections have been fantastic with over 650 players having registered before the end of August, a wonderful achievement and an accolade to the hard work that goes on behind the scenes every year. It is a slightly sad reflection on our success that some potential members have been disappointed and are subject to a waiting list in many of the mini age groups, whilst we still have some places available in the youth teams. To those on waiting lists – please be patient and we will let you know as soon as a vacancy appears.

Reflecting on the Minis section, I am extremely pleased to welcome John Craig as Mini chairman and having worked with him on the club committee last season, I know what a wonderful asset he will be to the club. That said, I would also like to thank the outgoing chairman Kieran Notter for the last three years work and I wish him a well deserved rest.  I look forward to meeting new members on the 9^th September at the Mini's Welcome Night                 

We are fortunate to retain Stephen Heard as Chairman of Youth rugby where his experience is invaluable as we build on the ever growing link between youth and senior sections. It speaks volumes for his commitment to the club, that he is staying on in this role even though his son is off to university.

The seniors are again competing in London South One and we have retained Arran Cowell as Captain guided by the same coaching team under the leadership of Director of Rugby, Bill Davison. With several key players returning from university and a couple of players taking a gap year we look towards an exciting, youthful and competitive team.

The under 21s who narrowly lost the county cup final  to Richmond  last year are under the Captaincy of Josh Brown this season and have already dispatched Esher in the first game this season. We hope they can go one better this season and bring home the cup.

Off the field I’d like to update you on the progress with our new pitches on the old Fairmile Driving Range where I can confirm that we have secured a 30 year lease and intend to have this fantastic facility ready for use from September 2012. We have applied for a grant from Sport England to help with the cost of building and maintaining the pitches, a response from whom we expect shortly and of course will make an announcement as soon as we can. As a direct result of the new pitches, we are actively discussing the formation of a female rugby section to enhance the breadth of sport we offer at Cobham and within the local community.

On the domestic front, from the start of this season the catering on Sundays will be enhanced with the new BBQ hut open from 9.45am until 3.30pm selling  Bacon, Sausage and Burgers, no longer requiring volunteers, but will be manned by staff provided by the club. Naturally we will still provide high quality post match food for the youth games.

Never let it be said that Cobham is anything but the best social club in the area. We have set forth a very busy social calendar this season; not least of which will be the events put on for this year’s Rugby World Cup but also the pre match luncheons. These are open to all and the details are on the club web site under "What's On" - please support these events as much as possible. I can guarantee you’ll have a good time.

The tennis section is actively looking for new members and is offering a discounted membership of only £50 to existing rugby club members; if anyone is interested please contact Rosemary Bailey.

Communicating with so many club members is always a challenge but one I think we do well at. The primary point of contact for much of our communication is either indirectly through the excellent (and frequently updated) club website or directly through email (and even sometimes text). We do use Twitter and Facebook as secondary media at the moment but we’re always reviewing how best to communicate with you. That said, face to face is so often the best way of communicating and I will certainly be around most Saturdays and Sundays and look forward to meeting as many of you as possible.

I hope all players and club members of what ever age enjoy the season to the full, but please do remember the club’s code of conduct (a copy of which is on the web site) and  be respectful at all times to the opposition and to referees (who never change their minds anyway – their decision is final!)

And do remember that winning is an art, but enjoying playing (both on and off the pitch) is just as important.

Best regards

Tony Balkwill

Chairman, Cobham Rugby

A unique opportunity to sponsor at Cobham has just a few places left.

We have sold 11 places, leaving 7 now available, If you would like to join this special sponsorship group for only £300 for the season, your club would be very happy to sign you up!

Please contact Mags Davison on 07867 808214.

2 -  Norman Evans

6 -

11 - Paul Rooke

Cobham teams came top in three age groups at the first of our 2011 Mini Festivals as all teams tried to adapt to the unseasonal 'summer' weather of upwards of 27 degrees!

Congratulations to the U10s, who were outright Cup winners, and to the U9s and U11s who were joint Cup winners.

• Results 

U.7 Bowl Winners ~ Effingham & Leatherhead

U.7 Plate Winners ~ Battersea Ironsides

U.7 Joint Cup Winners ~ Guildford & London Irish

U.8 Bowl Winners ~ London Irish

U.8 Plate Winners ~ Tonbridge Juddians

U.8 Cup Winners ~ Effingham & Leatherhead

U.9 Bowl Winners ~ London Irish

U.9 Plate Winners ~ Battersea Ironsides

U.9 Joint Cup Winners ~ Cobham & Guildford

U.10 Joint Bowl Winners ~ Battersea Ironsides & Teddington

U.10 Plate Winners ~ Effingham & Leatherhead

U.10 Cup Winners ~ Cobham

U.11 Bowl Winners ~ Effingham & Leatherhead

U.11 Plate Winners ~ Battersea Ironsides

U.11 Joint Cup Winners ~ Cobham & Reeds

U.12 Bowl Winners ~ Battersea

U.12 Plate Winners ~ Effingham & Leatherhead

U.12 Cup Winners ~ Tonbridge Juddians

Congratulations to the U9 B's who were joint Cup Winners at this year's Mini B Festival and also to the U10s and U11s who both won the Bowl competition.

• Full Results:

U.7 Bowl Winners ~ Guildford
U.7 Plate Winners ~ Rosslyn Park
U.7 Cup Winners ~ Teddington

U.8 Bowl Winners ~ Guildford
U.8 Plate Winners ~ Effingham & Leatherhead
U.8 Cup Winners ~ Reeds

U.9 Joint Bowl Winners ~ Effingham & Leatherhead and Camberley 
U.9 Joint Plate Winners ~ Battersea Ironsides and Teddington
U.9 Joint Cup Winners ~ Cobham & Guildford

U.10 Bowl Winners ~ Cobham
U.10 Plate Winners ~ Sutton & Epsom
U.10 Cup Winners ~ Effingham & Leatherhead

U.11 Bowl Winners ~ Cobham
U.11 Plate Winners ~ Teddington
U.11 Cup Winners ~ Battersea Ironsides

U.12 Bowl Winners ~ Camberley
U.12 Plate Winners ~ Guildford
U.12 Cup Winners ~ Battersea Ironsides

There are no more 'Cobham' tickets left but if you would still like to attend, you can buy tickets on the gate. Cobham are sitting in the South Stand, Block BD. Or call Gerald or Ben at Quins on 0208 410 6058. NB: to all Cobham parents: please note that we have a block booking so your can sit anywhere within the Cobham area, all you need is the ticket to get in. 

• Our Boys will form the ‘Guard of honour’ (Tunnel) and play in half time games AND watch Harlequins vs Connacht, 7:30pm kick off.

• Our club mascot for the evening will be our own Harry Buckland, U8s (Harry’s parents won this prize at the Summer Ball and we look forward to making it a special night for Harry!)

• ALL Cobham children must wear their club playing shirt, shorts and socks on the pitch!

• The special price on tickets is only available through this offer. £12 for children and £25 for adults. Click here for Booking Form

This season we have selected the U8s, U9s, U10s and U11s for the half time matches. Once we know which children (within these age groups) have booked their tickets, your coaches will inform you of selection to play at half time. We specifically aim to mix the teams with A, B & C players! ALL Cobham children will get a chance to form the ‘guard of honour’.   
  
All you need to do is download and fill in the booking form and send payment for your tickets to Mags Davison (details on form). You can collect your tickets at the club from Friday 4th November.  

We look forward to another fantastic big night out with as many Cobham members as possible!!  
 
Kind regards 
Mags Davison 

Had a bad day at the office? Thumping head after too many the night before?

Mr Grumpy is in town. Or maybe Mrs Grumpy, we’re not sexist at Cobham.

Sadly, we hear a number of reports that Mr or Mrs Grumpy have been venting their anger in what ever form at some of the staff at the club. Not me I hear you say. Possibly not, but if you occasionally are Mr or Mrs Grumpy being less than polite to the Cobham staff – whether it is in the bar, the BBQ hut or the Shop, then can we suggest you be at least  as polite to the staff as you would expect the staff to be to you. Really doesn’t take much effort and after all it is your club.

And whilst writing, have Mr or Mrs Grumpy got some little ankle biters that are out of control going up and down in the lift, running about, creating havoc? Are we expecting little angels? No – it’s a rugby club after all – but we’ve spent a lot of time, money and effort to have the best club in the land and we’d like to keep it that way. So if your little Johnny or Joanna is not behaving as you’d expect them to behave at home, have a word would you? There’s plenty of space outside if they have more E numbers to get rid of.

Touring is a strong tradition at Cobham – from the Minis on tour to Pontins and onwards towards ‘senior touring’ in every sense. Touring brings people closer together and enables the Cobham spirit to pervade far and wide.

Continuing that spirit that has seen youth tours over the years to South Africa and beyond, with this years U17 team off to Argentina on Friday 21^st October for a half term tour. Miguel Galuccio and his son Matteus have been stalwart Cobham members for many years and were keen to show off their homeland and their rugby – Miguel played for Argentina in his earlier years. 

No less than 29 Cobham members (of whom 15 are players) will be departing for Argentinean steak, Tango and perhaps the odd glass of Argentinean red along with some fantastic opportunities to build relationships on the rugby pitch in and around Buenos Aires and Parana.

The lads will be playing four games including one with a development team (and passing on old Cobham kit) and are the only visiting side to ever play in the National U17 Rugby festival at CRAI Rugby club in Santa Fe.

Have a great time lads – and Dads – and we look forward to the usual redacted post tour report.

Congratulations to our U9s who won the Cup and also to the U12s who won the Plate in the final of our three Mini Festivals for 2011.

Full Results

• U.7

Bowl Winners ~ Old Guildfordians
Plate Winners ~ Wimbledon
Cup Winners ~ Reeds

• U.8

Bowl Winners ~ Sutton & Epsom
Plate Winners ~ Chobham
Joint Cup Winners ~ Reeds and Farnham

• U.9

Bowl Winners ~ Chobham
Plate Winners ~ Teddington
Cup Winners ~ Cobham

• U.10

Bowl Winners ~ Battersea Ironsides
Plate Winners ~ Sutton & Epsom
Cup Winners ~ Effingham

• U.11

Bowl Winners ~ Sutton & Epsom
Plate Winners ~ Battersea Ironsides 1
Cup Winners ~ Reeds

• U.12

Bowl Winners ~ Tonbridge Juddians
Plate Winners ~ Cobham
Joint Cup Winners ~ London Irish and Beccahamians

nb for Braemar Cup Report from October 30th please click here

Cobham 1st XV 2nd Row Jamie Durward played in the 130th Varsity Match between Oxford and Cambridge.

He came off the bench in the second half in Oxford's 28-10 win.

He joins Simon Ackroyd in gaining an Oxford Blue.

Escape to Millennium Resort Mussanah, Oman and experience the essence of Arabia.
  
The Millennium Resort Mussanah has launched a special offer for Cobham Rugby Club Members travelling from the UK to the idyllic resort nestled between the Hajjar mountains and the beach on the Gulf of Oman. Conveniently located less than an hour from downtown Muscat, it offers the perfect escape from the rat race with clear turquoise warm waters and golden sands as far as the eye can see. 

Millennium Resort Mussanah is offering a seven day stay in a two bedroom deluxe apartment for just £736 (including taxes, based on four person occupancy). The special offer includes a 20% discount on food in all of the hotel restaurant outlets. 

For those looking for a shorter stay, the resort is offering an exclusive deal for a deluxe room of £110 per night, inclusive of breakfast and taxes (based on two person occupancy). Half board supplements are also available at £19 per person per night. 

The resort benefits from five swimming pools, including two infinity pools overlooking the beach, which gives kids the chance to splash around in the kids’ pool while parents relax. A private 54 berth marina, operated in partnership with Oman Sail, offers a wide range of watersports for guests of all ages. Whether amateur or expert, guests can take advantage of wake boarding, kayaking, lazer and catamaran sailing and water skiing facilities. 
The younger at heart can get their thrills from the banana boat and doughnut rides on offer.   

Four restaurants will satisfy even the most cosmopolitan of palates. The Mydan restaurant and Naseem Lounge give an easy retreat from outdoor activities at any time of the day, either to the comfort of the restaurant and lounge, or to the terrace overlooking the marina. For a more exotic taste, the Al Bahar restaurant serves a fusion of traditional and contemporary Moroccan and Far Eastern cuisine for guests to sample before moving through to The Deck – a modern and relaxed lounge bar offering cocktails and light snacks to live music.   

For further information or to make bookings, please contact (+968) 268 71555 or email: reservations@mill-mussanah.com.  
The offer is based on accommodation only. To book flights and transfers please contact Destinations Store on+44 (0) 844 482 1672 or emailinfo@destinationstore.co.uk

Jack Clifford, part of last year's U18 squad and now contracted to Harlequins, received a late call up on Friday 2nd December for the next days' game at Twickenham for the Northern Hemisphere team v Southern Hemisphere in the fund raising game in aid of Help For Heroes.

Watched by over 30,000 spectators this was Jack's first outing - and undoubtedly not his last - at the home of English rugby. Playing at 7 he was on the pitch for 3/4 of the match having come on as a substitute for Serge Betsen.

The team included such greats as Will Greenwood, Danny Grewcock and Alan Quinlan, coached by John Kirwan and Dean Ryan.

Well done Jack.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers Cheerleaders dropped in at "Cobham London" last week on their trip to Wembley for the match against Chicago Bears.

Watch as they set about teaching a few Cobham rugby players all about American football   Click here to watch the video

Players’ Insurance

Insurance is all about buying peace of mind, balanced by your perception of any risk associated with, for instance, your property, your car, or your health.

Cobham Rugby Club as an affiliate of the RFU is covered by a certain level of insurance essentially covering total disability and life. Some might see this as a bare minimum and accept it as such.

Others, however, may wish to have wider insurance cover. It is down to individual Club members to decide whether they wish to ensure that this type of cover is in place. It is purely a personal choice.

If you want to know more about the RFU Insurance cover take a look at:

http://www.rfu.com/ManagingRugby/Insurance.aspx

If you feel that you’d like to discuss private medical insurance cover with an expert, the Club has been in discussions with WPA, a not-for-profit association focusing on health care. The Club is happy to recommend them. Please see:

www.wpa.org.uk/madeleinecoleman 

Or contact Madeleine Coleman on 07885 406570

madeleine.coleman@wpa.org.uk

Club members should be aware that Madeleine Coleman has offered a minimum £50 payment to the Club per policy taken out. However please don’t feel that that is the motivator for this note; it’s not. We are keen to raise Club members’ awareness of the limitations of the existing RFU cover and allow you the opportunity to do something about it if you wish to. WPA is certainly one option in this respect.

Tony Balkwill

Club Chairman

Update 17 November

Following the communication to you on the 14/15 October, this note is to give you an update on progress of the ground development at our new land to the rear of the Fairmile pub.

Firstly, however, it seems appropriate to announce the new name.

The New Land Naming Competition launched on the 15^th October, has been a great success with a total of 61 nominations from all age groups and sections of the Cobham Sports Association. Our thanks to all those who joined in and contributed suggestions with such great creativity and enthusiasm.

The board of the CSA reviewed every offering and has now selected the name for our new grounds which is …. <>

THE COVENHAM GROUNDS

(Note: The word Covenham comes from the fact that Cobham appears in the Domesday Book as Covenham so there is a rich heritage around the name)

The winning suggestion came from Sion & Ben Gibby in the Cobham Rugby Club Under 5s so £25 will be awarded to them courtesy of the Braemar Club. It is our hope that all members will feel that this touch of the ancient past has a strong place in our clubs exciting future.

Secondly, we saw a promising start on the development of the ground with the weed killing and vermin removal and then the ground levelling taking place. However, a sustained period of wet weather has meant that progress has halted for the time being and it is now not likely that much more work will be able to take place this side of January, so the next stages of de-stoning, soil improvement and then seeding will probably take place in early spring.

But there is plenty to do in the meantime with work on the irrigation system being the next big project. The CSA has a strong bid to the RFU for funding to assist with the irrigation project and there will be another update as soon as we have any news. Keep your fingers crossed.

Finally, you will find the answers to some Frequently Asked Questions, but if you have a question that is not answered here, please don’t hesitate to contact me or any one of the CSA Committee to discuss further.

Thanks for your ongoing support

Steve Robinson

CSA Land Committee

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What facilities will be available at the new grounds?

There will be a building with running water and toilet facilities only. Our aim is to keep the Peter Marsh Pavilion as the hub of the club operation as it is now.

Our lease agreement is for the grounds and the golf driving range bays (which obviously we won’t use) but we will benefit from the driving range floodlighting near the bays (once they have been refurbished) for mid-week evening training.

Where will we park?

There is NO parking available to us at the Fairmile Pub and therefore members should continue to park in Munro House or the club car park when appropriate. Also, the only changing room facilities will be at The Club.

Should we use the Fairmile Pub?

Whilst there is no issue with having a drink at the Fairmile pub, we hope that the great bar atmosphere and excellent food offered at the Club will continue to draw members in allowing the Club to continue to thrive.

The plan on the website shows three pitches – is that what will happen?

The provisional plan is for 3 sports pitches, but this may change if we find that the land can accommodate more. We will update you as this becomes clearer.

When will we be using the new grounds?

This is dependant on a number of factors - some within our control, but many outside of our remit, especially the weather. However, we are anticipating that, if all goes well, we should have pitches available for play during the 2012/2013 season.

Who will decide on the use of the new pitches?

Strategically, this will be managed by the CSA in association with the various sections.

At a tactical level, Suzanne Whealing currently takes responsibility for managing the use of the existing grounds and has kindly offered to take on the management of the additional grounds.

Who will be using the new grounds?

This is not yet finalised but the provisional plan is:

·        Seniors Rugby Training

·        Youth Rugby Training and Matches

·        U11 & U12 Rugby Training and Matches

·        Lacrosse Training and Matches

·        Extended Minis Tournaments

       … but, again, this is subject to change 

In addition, one of the opportunities that the Rugby Club are anticipating is the introduction of Women’s Rugby to Cobham. Our current aim is to always have the younger club members on the main site.

What about crossing the Portsmouth Road?

Safety is and always has been top of the club’s agenda. We have undertaken a risk assessment on this with our Health & Safety Officer, Dick Frost, and we are developing plans of how best to control the safe crossing of the road. A team is now investigating the options here and there will be further communication on this topic in the near future.

What will we be calling the new pitches?

The Covenham Grounds

What can I do to help?

There will be many opportunities for you and your family to be involved in this development.

If you would like to offer your assistance, in any capacity, please send an email to newland@cobhamsports.com or discuss your contribution with any member of the CSA Committee

------------------------------------------------------------

Update 8th November

The grounds contractor has completed the initial ground prep works in most areas ie. treating existing grass sward, removing existing scrub vegetation and waste, leveling the earth mounds and re-grading the soils (which you can see in the photos below). Unfortunately the wet weather has so far prevented any other groundworks, including the stone picking, final re-grading and autumn seeding.

Construction is, however, underway on the irrigation system.

So, for the moment, let’s just hope for some more dry weather.

______________________________________________________________________

As you know from the communication sent out recently by Cobham Sports Association (CSA) Chairman, Andy Harburn, the CSA has acquired a long lease on the 10 acre derelict golf driving range to the rear of the Fairmile pub with the intention of doubling our current playing fields. 

This is a massive undertaking for our organisation and it is very important to us that, as a club member, you are kept informed of these developments as they progress.

So, first two pieces of great news for you:

First, we have now had it confirmed that the CSA has been awarded a £50,000 grant by Sport England. This is the public body tasked with growing the number of people playing sport by working with national governing bodies of sport . To have been given this award is a fantastic achievement and we are very grateful to Sport England for their continued support of the club. 
In rough terms, it will cost us approximately £120,000 to turn the derelict golf driving range into first class sports fields and this grant takes us a long way towards achieving this objective. 

We already have a substantial additional commitment from the Trustees of the Peter Marsh Trust Fund, and for their ongoing support we are exceptionally grateful.

Secondly, with the funding now in place, our grounds contractors Agripower started work on Wednesday 12th October and it is anticipated that the majority of the heavy work will be concluded by the end of November, subject to the weather.

It has been a busy few months trying to get meters installed, fences repaired, funding sorted. But now the regeneration can finally begin.

There will be a number of stages here, but in simple terms;

- Levelling of land 

- Ground improvement

- Installation of irrigation system

- Only then can seeding, feeding and weeding begin 

The competition to decide on a name for the new grounds is now closed, look out for news of the winning selection soon. 

Our objective is to have the grounds ready for Sports during the 2012/2013 season, but the weather plays a huge part in how fast or slow stages are completed.

However, we will endeavour to give you updates on the progress of the development at appropriate times.

• For the latest on Land Development Click here
• For answers to some Frequently Asked Questions click here

If you have a question that is not answered please don’t hesitate to contact me or any one of the CSA Committee to discuss further. Thanks for your ongoing support

Steve Robinson

CSA Land Committee

Amy Turner – Lineout Coach the Coach

Amy Turner, England Ladies No2 will be delivering a lineout session for club coaches 19:00 – 21:00 at the club this Thursday 23^rd Feb

Congratulations to Alex Corbisiero, formerly of ACS and Cobham, who played the full 80 minutes on Saturday at Twickenham in England's convincing 59-13 win over Italy.

Well done from all of us at Cobham who cheered you on whilst having a few beers in the clubhouse...

Cobham Youth players continue to impress with three players recently chosen for London & SE Division U18 team in Divisional Championships and two of the Cobham U15 squad have been selected for the Surrey U15 squad.

Cobham went into today's game with confidence from last weeks win against Chobham, knowing how important a win at home would be with Thanet and Wimbledon close behind.
 
There were again a number of changes to the team due to unavailability; Paul Mayer came in at tight head for Richard Nunn, in the 2ndrow Tom Webb came in for Billy Davison and Leo Coates for the Injured Tristan Lee. In the backs Richard Jackson replaced the unavailable Kevin Fisher. The bench saw a return of Chris Gibbons and James Macdonald to the squad and Doug Rodman making his debut for the 1stxv.

Cobham got the 1st points on the board with a penalty kick from Luke Flower; Cobham 3-0
Cobham then got the next points with a 2nd penalty from Luke Flower to take the score to 6-0. Hove had a couple of penalty kicks which they missed but finally got on the score sheet to make the score 6-3.

Hove then got the 1st try of the match from wing Seb Eubank who with good pace and strength beat the Cobham defence out wide. The conversion missed. Cobham 6 Hove 8

From the re start Cobham got straight back into the game with a try from Skipper Arran Cowell. A break in midfield with Richard Jack beating the defence, popping to the supporting Josh Brown who went just short of the line but was able to off load to the Skipper Cowell to score with Luke Flower adding the extras. Cobham 13 Hove 8

Cobham then got the next score out wide. A break down the far side of the pitch and forwards and back linking up sent Billy Bates to score in the corner. Luke Flower adding the extras from out wide. Cobham 20 Hove 8

After half time, Cobham got the 1st points of the 2nd half with a penalty kick from Luke Flower. The 2nd half was a mixed bag from Cobham with a number of  try opportunities they could not convert, but without the ball they defended well. Again new combinations were taking time to come together in the forwards but Leo Coates and Tom Webb did a good job in the line with Hooker Ed Turner. Doug Rodman came on to make his debut and add fresh legs replacing Josh Brown, who had put himself round the park well, and join up for another new back row combination with Matt Johnson and Leon Van Niekerk .

Hove to their credit were to make the match a lot closer than Cobham would probably have liked. Two tries out wide where taken well by Eubank to get his hat trick, but crucially for Cobham only one conversion was achieved.
 
Final Score 23-20.
 
Cobham will take plenty from this match as the young side build confidence and look forward to the trip to Juddians next weekend. Cobham are the only side to have beaten Juddians this season so will be expecting a warm welcome from their hosts.
 
If you can travel to Juddians next week all support is very welcome and appreciated by the players.
 
Cobham
 
1 Andy Alexander
2 Ed Turner
3 Paul Mayer
4 Leo Coates
5 Tom Webb
6 Josh Brown
7 Matt Johnson
8 Leon Van NieKerk
9 Rob Kennard
10 Luke Flower
11 Charlie Rooke
12 Richard Jackson
13 Arran Cowell (Captain)
14 Billy Bates
15 Oli Brown
 
16 Chris Gibbons
17 Doug Rodman
18 James Macdonald
 
Arran Cowell 1 Try
Billy Bates 1 Try
 
Luke Flower 2 Conversions 3 Penalties

Two of the Cobham U15 squad have been selected for the Surrey U15 squad:  Adam Bolton (who went through the Surrey Development Squad system, Therfield) and Sam Cordery (St John's).

Congratulations to Tom Flynn, Tom Harty and Tom Bliss who having attended the London & South East U18 Divisional training weekend on 29th / 30th Jan at Old Pauline RFC, have now been picked in the starting line up.

Tom Harty starts at 15, Tom Bliss starts at 9, and Tom Flynn warms a seat on the bench as an impact player.

Well done guys.

The RFU Inter Divisional Championships are held at Broadstreet, Coventry over 3 days of 18/19/20 February. The four divisions of England are North, Midlands, South West and London & South East.

Cobham welcomed back a number of key players for the derby against locals Chobham.  
Ed Turner returning after Long term injury at hooker, Luke Flower at Fly Half. Kevin Fisher making his first appeance of the season at centre and Billy Bates returning to the wing.  Cobham also had a change of kit with the ref asking for the team to wear the maroon shirts.

Cobham dominated the 1st half scoring 3 tries, the first from a cross field kick from Luke flower to Charlie Rooke who found him self in space as he took the ball in mid flight to score in the corner. Luke Flower converting. Cobham 7-0

With Cobham on the attack  the 2nd try was also scored by Charlie Rooke who found space to beat the Chobham defence and score again in the corner. Luke Flower again converting to put Cobham 14-0 ahead.

The 3rd try was scored out wide again this time on the other side of the pitch by Kevin Fisher and converted by Luke Flower.  The platform was being set by the forwards to allow the backs to take their opportunities. with Cobham 21-0 up at half time

Cobham started the 2nd half on the attack but an interception by by Chobham ended after a number of phases with them scoring. Chobham then also got the next score intercepting a pass as Cobham were on the attack. Score 21-10.

This gave Cobham a big wake up call and got themselves back into Chobhams half and stayed there for large chunks of the 2nd half coming away with 3 tries, two of them coming from push over tries from the scrum, Leon Van Niekerk scoring the 2 tries for the forwards.  
Score 33-10.

The 3rd and final try was well worked by the backs and Charlie Rooke put Oli Brown away for the final try. Final score 38-10

This was a great boost for Cobham in what is tight contest near the bottom of the table and there were key performances by the returning players which will help this young Cobham side move forward.

Cobham welcome Hove next weekend for the rearranged fixture that could not take place before Christmas because of the snow and all are welcome for this important home match.
 

• Some pictures of the game are available to view (and purchase) by clicking here

Team
 
1 Andy Alexander
2 Ed Turner
3 Richard Nunn
4 Tristan Lee
5 Billy Davison
6 Josh Brown
7 Matt Johnson
8 Leon Van Niekerk
9 Rob Kennard
10 Luke Flower
11 Charlie Rooke
12 Arran Cowell (Captain)
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Billy Bates
15 Oli Brown
 
16 Paul Mayer
17 Leo Coates

18 Sam Waite
 
Charlie Rooke 2 tries
Leon Van Niekerk 2 tries
Kevin Fisher 1 try
Oli Brown 1 try
 
Luke Flower 4 conversions

L-R Don Phillips – from New York, Bob Jennings, Steve Spooner, Chris Howcroft, Ian White, Keith Hunt, Paul Phipps, Mike Anscombe, Colin Hastings – from Bangkok

Ex Player’s Lunch

It was by far the largest social gathering for a sit down lunch in our (relatively) new clubhouse as ex-Cobham players gathered to mingle and reminisce on Saturday 29^th January 2011. Ex players from far and wide travelled to be with us and enjoy a sumptuous lunch (from Vanilla Bean as ever) followed by a tightly fought contest against local and league rivals Sutton & Epsom.

Huge effort and no mean expense for those who visited – with the prize going for the greatest distance travelled to Colin Hastings who popped over from Bangkok, with notable runners up from New York (Don Philips), Spain (Chris Thorogate) and Ireland (Pat Keogh and Kenny Percival) let alone domestic travellers from Lancashire (Chris Howcroft), Wiltshire (Nick Ashley), and Dorset (Derek Thorogate).

No less than 149 people sat for lunch, with a fantastic 16 former Captains amongst them. Attendees  will be delighted that despite the best consumption forecasting tools known to any management consultancy that were employed by Mike Thom and Mel Ingram behind the bar, members and guests drank the bar dry, consuming over 1,000 pints during the afternoon. And that’s just the beer.

L-R Martin Wright, Bob Ayers, Chris Thorogate – from Spain, Jon Roberts, Jim Lofting, Andy Wade, Graham Parkes, Derek Thorogate

Events like this wouldn’t be what they are had it not been for the headline sponsorship of NatWest Bank, whom our Club Chairman Tony Balkwill now has a significant overdraft facility with. We are as ever highly indebted to our Club sponsors, Menzies, Mundays, the Oman Tourist Board and Savills who were also welcomed as our guests.

Excellent grace from Lionel Frewin, our Club President was followed by an eloquent and warm welcome from Tony Balkwill to all our guests. As Director of Rugby, Billy Davison popped up from the changing rooms to provide us with some very amusing insights into the game and related stories of his many retirements, ex colleagues and the availability of beer and car park sex.

We'll have to do it again sometime - with more beer on tap.

L-R Bob Ayers, Keith Hunt, Ken Percival, Bob Jennings, Nigel Dancer, Paul Evans, Paul Phipps, Derek Thorogate, Ian White, Colin Hastings, Mike Anscombe, Andy Wade, Don Phillips

The Surrey U21 Tournament Committee have decided that the Cobham v Effingham match that was due to be played at Christmas goes down as a draw as, despite best endeavours, we were defeated firstly by the weather and then by the inevitable lack of numbers following New Year weekend (on Effingham's side I hasten to add). We don’t have time over the Easter break as there is only a 3/4 week period depending on which university the players attend and I fear their is going to be a large backlog of senior fixtures that need completing. I know it’s not ideal but we have had to come up with a solution.

Venue and date to be decided!

Chris Melton
 

Elmbridge Borough Council hold an annual Sports Personality of the Year Award and last year's Under 17s, now this year's Under 18s, were nominated for the Youth Sports Team of the Year award. At a gala evening on Friday 21st January (delayed due to the snow) at Rydens School, beating off significant opposition, Cobham U18s were awarded with a magnificient trophy plus a cheque for £250.

<Photo awaited>

The Elmbridge awards committee commented that the astonishing National Cup victory together with the success of both the A and B sides in winning their leagues was a remarkable achievement. 

Well done guys!

See the Elmbridge web site for a full list of winners by clicking here.

The nomination text is noted below:

This band of young men have excelled over the last year in all that they have done. Regularly playing rugby for their schools, for County, regional and for England and the USA international sides, they might be forgiven for wanting a little rest on a Sunday. However as a squad they have put out two teams to play in Surrey League One and League Two throughout the season. The B side were playing solely against other A sides (no mean feat) and won League Two in style. The A side won the League One for the 7^th year in succession and also went on to play for Surrey in the London & South East Regional Championships which they won. They then went on to play for the first time in the inter divisional National rugby tournament organised by the RFU to find the best team in the land which they also won – playing at Northampton Saints’ ground against Bedford and winning 55-3 to be crowned National Champions. Many of the players have been together in the squad since they played mini rugby at the age of 6.

The International & Premiership referee for the National final commented that it was the best game of rugby he’d refereed and exactly why he gave up his free time. Their disciplinary record has been exemplary (no red cards, the odd yellow for technical infringements) and they are great ambassadors for sport.

At a time when youth are being disparaged for what they don’t achieve this squad of young men work together, play together and support each other in a way that is a credit to Cobham Rugby, to Surrey Rugby and most importantly to themselves.

This season match reports continue to be authored by Paul Hickson who is a Partner at Seniors' sponsor Menzies, to whom we are as ever hugely endebted. If you like Paul's creative writing, you should also try his creative accounting...

It wasn't too taxing writing a match report for last week's away match to Thanet because only five men and a dog could dispute the accuracy, however when you are writing a match report following the largest lunch Cobham have ever laid on,(149 sitting down ) attention to detail might be required, depending of course upon how much those 149  had drunk.

Sutton and Epsom started the match with the same number of wins but their league position was two places higher as they had gained more bonus points in their games. With Cobham now finding themselves in the relegation zone bonus points were starting to take on some significance.

This was always going to be a significant fixture but the RFU had elevated its status even further by providing an International Ref from Treviso, Italy and two linesmen, both male. Would the laws be lost in translation? Would the offside rule cause any controversy? Would any pundits resign?

Alex Cook was making his first start of the season and Tom Webb only his second in an otherwise unchanged line up, bar the return of Rookie to full back.

Cobham started well, driving a ruck into Sutton territory and after just 5 minutes Captain Cowell had points on the scoreboard with a well kicked penalty 3-0 but before you could say, mamma mia, S & E had engineered a quick riposte with a well taken Matt Whiitaker try swiftly converted by number 9 Steve Munford 3-7. Reflecting there was nothing between the teams Cobham came straight back and although Oli Brown's drop kick hit the upright and Andy Alexander just failed to drive over the line, a charge down on the S & E 22 enabled Brown to capitalise and edge Cobham in front 8-7.

Cowell wasn't able to convert the try but we  had 15 points on the scoreboard in 15 minutes, suggesting this could be a high scoring game. With the rugby being played end to end neither side were able to break through the others defence in the reminder of the half.

The forwards had been sizing each other up but were perhaps aware that the Ref was known for showing a 'cartilleno rosso' or two so there were very few penalties being given but when Cobham did transgress

Steve Munford took advantage to regain the lead for S & E just before half time.8-10.

Swiftly after the second half started a Munford, Richens, Burrell break away combination was thwarted but the subsequent penalty enabled the lead to be extended by Munford 8-13. The tackling was as tough as you would expect it to be in this sort of encounter and Cobham made injury substitutions for Jackson ( Avery playing out of position in the centre ) and Webb ( Leon van Van Niekerk ).Without anyone else on the bench Tom was looking to pull Josh Brown out of the second XV match if necessary.

S & E centre Middleton was making some fine breaks and only Rooke's tackle prevented a score. Under pressure the Cobham pack wheeled the scrum to gain the advantage and from that possession for the next ten minutes they camped out on the S & E line. However they could not achieve the score they needed and instead Munford kicked a long range  penalty to take their lead to more than one score 8-16. For the home side supporters it then got worse still when second row Symonds put fall back Richens in for an unconverted try 8-21.

Cobham did not want their Ex Players to go home with that score line and in a final burst Leon restored pride by driving over 13-21 and Captain Cowell ensured a losing bonus point by converting 15-21.

As we said a fond arrivederci to our Ref there was a reflection on how crucial that bonus point may prove to be for Cobham in the weeks ahead.

With next Saturday's opponents Chobham just narrowly missing out on their first victory of the season against Thanet, Cobham's rescheduled match against Wimbledon on February 26th may well now prove to be the key fixture for the remainder of the Season.

Cobham Minis continue to develop our rugby coaches and are now conducting the first series of continuous professional development (CPD) coaching courses. These have been organised at the club, with over 20 coaches from the U6-12s on each CPD course developing their coaching knowledge.

The Cobham coaching strategy is to ensure we “coach the players to be the best that they can be” focussing on the early development of players and providing the opportunity to progress into youth rugby and on to the senior squad in years to come. These courses will all be run by RFU coaching trainers.

The club is financing this coaching development which will pay broad dividends in the long term – benefitting all our players, and the club, whilst providing opportunities for the coaches to understand the needs of children in sport and look at long term athlete development (LTAD). LTAD is a progressive evolution and varies for each child as they mature and develop at different rates through adolescence.  

Should anybody want any more information on coach development please discuss it in the first instance with your age group head coach, but do not hesitate to contact the club coaching coordinator (CCC) Paul Markham on pmarkham@aol.com

Regular updates can now be viewed on the coaching tab to the left of each page.

This season match reports continue to be authored by Paul Hickson who is a Partner at Seniors' sponsor Menzies, to whom we are as ever hugely endebted. If you like Paul's creative writing, you should also try his creative accounting...

With just one point between the sides and the previous match having been decided by the last kick of the match, this was always going to be close and so it proved to be.

 
The first observation, upon arriving at Thanet's grounds is the sound of seagulls, the second, the biting wind. Broadstairs in winter has its own micro climate namely  'expletive cold'.
 
Nick Sutton had returned at fullback, Andy to the front row and Billy was directing operations in the pack. Lordie Lee, sometime prop, second row, centre and indeed wing was in the back row this week at 6, but the shirt didn't fit so he wore number 8 instead.
 
The Thanet pitch has a slope and that gave the home side the first half advantage but it was Cobham who were taking the attack into the Wanderers half after Thanet missed the opportunity to go ahead with a penalty after 7 minutes. Oli Brown wearing number 10 was kicking effectively but then slightly against the run of play Wanderers number 13, Tom Ash, burst through from deep inside their half to create some stunning interplay with wing Richard Smith to score probably the best try Cobham have conceded this season. The Thanet Clubhouse overlooks the pitch and the balcony was packed, cue thunderous applause, converted it was 7-0.
 
Shaken and no doubt stirred Cobham came back with Alexander making his presence felt in the scrum (and by the way looking resplendent in the teams new maroon reverse strip kit,he was certainly providing the sponsors with their logo writ large) but it was the Thanet backline, who have obviously played many games together, who was making the plays and now it was the turn of centre Plumridge to break through and feed to Ash only for him to knock on. A second missed penalty for fly half Eldridge and Cobham probably felt turning around just one score down would be acceptable and then, as they say it all kicked off.... 
 
First an explosive run by Oli Brown, linking with  Chris Moreton who was supported by Billy and with the Thanet line in sight he offloaded to Lee for him to touch down for his first try of the season. Captain Cowell brought the scores level 7-7.  Half time was beckoning but from a Thanet scrum on the half way line their backline fired once again but this time it was a virtuoso performance from Plumridge, collecting his own kick ahead and with Eldridge converting Thanet had restored their lead.In the blink of an eye they had extended it to 21-7 as their forwards powered over soon after the restart. 
 
Turning around with the wind and slope, nay dip, in their favour the Braemar/Cobham supporters still felt this wasn't all over but Cobham had lost Chris Gibbons at half time with an injury so Callum Stott made his first team debut at hooker. After a baptism of fire in his first scrum and line out he then proceeded to win four consecutive scrums in the bottom right hand corner of the pitch as the pack piled on the pressure and Cobham were rewarded with a Matt Johnson try from the foot of the scrum. Captain Cowell held his nerve to convert 21-14. 
 
Thanet came back but they were not being given the same space as in the first half and the tackles being made were crunching, as when Cowell stopped his counterpart Ash, in his tracks.
 
Ackroyd and Nunn made storming runs down the centre of the pitch into Thanet territory and Brown kept the pressure on with long range kicks to touch. Rob Frost came on for the injured Coates and as play moved across to the other corner, having won a line out and secured a scrum Thanet gave away a penalty that was to prove expensive. Their Captain, Simon Harris' enthusiasm got the better of him in challenging Robbie Kennard for the ball and was yellow carded for his offside. Down to 7 in the pack Thanet desperately attempted to avoid a further push over try, so desperate in fact that the Ref awarded a penalty try which Cowell converted and we had a 21-21 score line with 15 minutes to go.
 
To their credit Thanet came back hard and survived the ten minutes as 14 without looking to concede a further score. As the Ref signalled the last play a penalty was awarded to Cobham on the half way line. Was this to be a déjà vu moment for Cobham, alas the attempt fell short and the final whistle blew.
 
No doubt both sides probably felt that they had lost a match they could have won rather than having secured an exceptionally entertaining high scoring draw and with two points gained they both moved one place further up the league.
 
With Sutton and Epsom securing a surprise win, next weeks home match against them, after the sold out Ex Players lunch, will be another key fixture for Cobham.
 

Well done to Jack Clifford, a stalwart Cobham U18 player, RGS Guildford and Quins, who started at 6 for England U18 in a tough but excellent game away in Dublin on December 30th.

We all look forward to seeing you play again for England on home turf sometime soon.

This season match reports continue to be authored by Paul Hickson who is a Partner at Seniors' sponsor Menzies, to whom we are as ever hugely endebted. If you like Paul's creative writing, you should also try his creative accounting...

Cobham returned to the Memorial grounds for their first home fixture of 2011, looking to build on the momentum they had achieved the previous week in the second half against Dover.

With Andy Alexander having fallen of a ladder and Rookie with an injury that can't be written in a report that might be read by Ladies there were just three changes to the forwards from the previous weeks team. Richard Nunn, Chris Gibbons and Matt Johnson returning, Billy Bates retaining his position on the wing.

It was anticipated to be a tough match as Beckenham were sitting　4th in the league although　they had　been held　to a draw by Thanet Wanderers the previous week.  

The first 15 minutes was played between the two 22 yard lines with neither side being able to dominate, although Beckenham displayed their forward power. The first score came shortly thereafter when Beckenham pounced on a loose ball following a line out. 0-5. It was not to be the　last of several disputed referring decisions during the afternoon and Cobham appeared to be visibly annoyed as they immediately push Becs back into their half from the kick off.

When the Cobham try came it was fast and involved so many players it was difficult to record completely on paper. With apologies to those missed out it looked to be a Luke Flower break and kick to　10 yards out from Bec's try line which they took into touch, Robbie Kennard taking a quick throw into Tristan who in turn released the ball to first Luke and then brother Andy to finish with a flourish in the corner 5-5 after 20 minutes

From the kick off Cobham nearly scored　again with Luke Flower launching Jackson and then the　Bates Meister only to be held up short but with a decision finally going Cobham's way, Flower secured the penalty 8-5.

The second quarter of the match saw Becs being awarded　some penalties the Cobham supporters failed to fully appreciate, indeed you could say it was causing some angst* on the sidelines however　Becs were failing to turn them into points so all was well until number 12 Alex Jones collected the ball just into the Cobham half and appeared to scythe his way through the Cobham defence to score, which when converted was to to take the score to 8-12 and half time.

We were not to know then of course that this was to be the final score.　

The second half was a war of attrition with rucks frequently lapsing into a mêlée (which is sort of allowed in Australian Rules football but doesn't do rugby any favours) and　the Ref still providing some 'interesting' decisions but Cobham were making all　the running, literally. If the backline could have finished　 just one of the attacks it launched Becs would have been beaten.　 Robbie Kennard and Captain Cowell made breaks that just fell short and with Nunny also breaking through the gain line opportunities were being made but the finish proved elusive.

You could tell how close the match had been　for Becs by the relieving cheer that emanated as the final whistle blew. At 8-12　Cobham gained a bonus point from holding Becs to this score but next weeks away game to Thanet is going to be key　. Thanet won their match against Sutton and Epsom and are just one point in front in the league, Cobham won the the home match earlier in the season 19-17 with the last kick of the game.

Cobham will need as much support as can be mustered as they head off to the Kent seaside.

* a German, Danish, Norwegian and Dutch word to describe an intense feeling of oppression, anxiety or inner turmoil.

Cobham headed to Dover hoping to get the New Year off to a good start after a month of no matches even with a number of 1st XV regulars missing; Alexander, Gibbson, Nunn, Johnson, Hahn & Goddard up front and Sutton and Rooke from behind the scrum. 

Unfortunately The first 35 mins went all Dover's way as they used the slope to their advantage  and Cobham found themselves 29-3 down but 5 mins before the end of the half Cobham started to put  pressure on Dover and Josh Brown scored in the corner to make it 29-8 at half time.

The 2nd half started the way the 1st ended with Cobham putting the pressure on Dover and Cobham got a 2nd try through Billy Bates to take the scored to 29-15 and Cobham well back in the match.

Dover worked their way up the slope and put pressure on the Cobham scrum and a loose ball was taken by Dover to score under the posts.

Cobham again camped in the Dover half and sustained pressure got Cobham a 3rd try again through Bates to take the score to 36-20. 

With a minute remaining Cobham looked for a fourth try from their own line and a break looked on but for a last ditch tap tackle from Dover on Andy Flower.

Cobham can take a lot from their 2nd half performance and if they can take this into the run of matches coming up the 2nd half of the season it could be very bright for a Cobham team who are still getting used to playing together.

• In other games, the A XV beat Wimbledon 20-5 and the All Stars won 21-7 against London Irish.

1 Tristan Lee
2 Colin Cowan
3 Paul Mayer
4 Leo Coates
5 Rob Frost
6 Josh Brown
7 Simon Ackroyd
8 Neil Smitherman
9 Rob Kennard
10 Luke Flower
11 Billy Bates
12 Richard Jackson
13 Arran Cowell (Captain)
14 Andy Flower
15 Oli Brown

16 Billy Davison
17 Chris Moreton
18 Will Avery   

Four Cobham U16 lads played for Surrey U16 v Sussex on Wed 24th November in a thumping win, 55-0.

From left Tom Sullivan, Matias Galucio, Mario Zakakiotis and Harry Green.

Matias scored two tries, Mario scored one try with Harry and Tom excellent in support providing the oomph for the glory boys to score.

In other news, four U18 players have been asked to attend the London and SE Divisional trial on December 19th.

Congratulations and best of luck to:

Tom Flynn

Tom Harty

Tom Bliss

Richard Thurston (who will be changing his name by deed poll to Tom)

On Tuesday 9th November, members from Cobham met with His Excellency, Mohammed Aj Tobi, The Omani Undersecretary and Oman's Minister for Tourism at the World Travel Market held at the Excel Centre in the Docklands. They were presented with a mounted photograph of the Cobham U17 squad that won the RFU's National Cup at Northampton Saints' ground in May 2010.

We are delighted that Oman's Ministry of Tourism have sponsored Cobham Youth Rugby for a 3 year period and their logo is proudly displayed on all playing shirts.

Joining the Oman party were Lionel Frewin, President of Cobham Rugby supported by the McQuade brothers, Jake and Ryan, who were (unusually according to their father) exceptionally well behaved and fantastic ambassadors for the Club. Well done guys.

We look forward to the next visit of the Omanis and extending a warm welcome to the Cobham clubhouse and grounds.

Cobham Rugby Club is supporting The Man For All Seasons Charity Calendar which hopes to raise £100,000 for type 1 diabetes research.

The 12” x 12” b&w calendar features 15 of our gorgeous players offering messages about nutrition, fitness and lifestyle choices in a fun and informative way.

It is being promoted in local and national media and shows our club in a very good light.

Players featured are Billy Davison, Rob Penfold, Dan Taylor, Adie Saunderson, Marc Lockwood, Nick Sutton, Patrick Disley-May, Kieran Notter, Josh Brown, Henry Mounsey, Tom Hancock, Tim Green, Paul Mayer, Jack Davison and Ben Creed.

Buy your £10 calendar from our stockists: 
•    Beejays, Oxshott 
•    Blomster Design
•    Cobham Bookshop
•    Ripley Florist

Cobham were beaten by the London Irish 'Wild Geese' on Saturday, December 11th 34-7.

The 1sts are back in action against Wimbledon at Fairmile Lane this Saturday hoping to avenge the 25-3 away defeat under the floodlights back in September, especially as Cobham are just a point and a position ahead of Wimbledon in the League table.

It's also the last home game of 2010 at Cobham so please come down and enjoy a pint or two of the festive spirit!

Many thanks to Gordon Marks, the Cobham High Street Jewellers, for sponsoring this season's Christmas Tree for the Clubhouse.

With 106 guests sitting down to an excellent lunch, the VPs, Life VPs and Patrons event proved to be a great success. We were delighted to welcome back to the club so many of our VPs and Patrons, some who had not visited the club since it opened in 2007, especially Todd Fredin and his son Mike who is now at university in Pennsylvania. We were also delighted to have all our major sponsors represented, all of whom were welcomed and thanked for their invaluable support by Andy Harburn (Chairman Cobham Sports). Andy also introduced and thanked Madeleine Coleman, who represented Western Provident Association (WPA), the match and lunch sponsors.

Our President, Lionel Frewin, welcomed our VPs and Patrons as well as our guests. These included Peter Golding, George Ebdon-Hussey and Pip Robson Portsmouth’s President, Past President and Chairman as well as Malcolm Caird, Chairman of Surrey Rugby.

Lionel took the opportunity to explain the basis on which VPs and life VPs are appointed and expressed our gratitude both to them and to our Patrons for their magnificent financial contributions to the club.

DIARY NOTE:-

Saturday 26^th January 2011 is the date of the next pre-match lunch at the club. This is the Past Players lunch, to which all members are welcome. We will be entertaining Sutton and Epsom at home.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Cobham went down 40-17 to Chichester on Saturday, November 27th despite a solid first half performance.

However in a side that saw a number of changes to the team due to injury and unavailability, Cobham narrowly trailed 22-17 at half-time, they were unable to keep pace after the break

Leon Van Niekerk scored 3 tries and Luke Flower one conversion.

Cobham entertain Hove at Fairmile lane this Saturday, December 4th.

Team

1 Andy Alexander
2 Colin Cowan
3 Richard Nunn
4 Joe Goddard
5 Tristan Lee
6 Matt Johnson
7 Josh Brown
8 Leon Van Niekerk
9 Rob Kennard (Captain)
10 Luke Flower
11 Dan Fitzpatrick
12 Billy Bates
13 Sam Waite
14 Chris Moreton
15 Andy Flower

16 Ian Snead
17 Martin Green
18 Dave Flower

A great day of Rugby was rounded off in style as Mike Brown and James Johnstone from the Harlequins came to help present the prizes along with our Mini sponsors, Savills.

Results

U7
Cup Winners - Rosslyn Park Eagles and London Irish
Bowl Winners - Chobham
Bowl Runners Up - Rosslyn Park Tigers
Plate Winners - Farnham
Plate Runners Up - Effingham & Leatherhead

U8
Cup Winners - London Irish    
Cup Runners Up - Cobham
Bowl Winners - Rosslyn Park
Bowl Runners Up - Reeds
Plate Winners - Teddington
Plate Runners Up - Chobham

U9
Cup Winners - Sutton & Epsom and Rosslyn Park
Bowl Winners - Reeds
Bowl Runners Up - Cobham
Plate Winners - Effingham & Leatherhead
Plate Runners Up - Chobham

U10
Cup Winners - Rosslyn Park
Cup Runners Up - Battersea Ironsides
Bowl Winners - Chobham
Bowl Runners Up - Effingham & Leatherhead
Plate Winners - Cobham Lions and Reeds

U11
Cup Winners - Rosslyn Park
Cup Runners Up - Effingham & Leatherhead
Bowl Winners - Chobham and Cobham
Plate Winners - Battersea Ironsides
Plate Runners Up - Sutton & Epsom

U12
Cup Winners - Chobham
Cup Runners Up - Guildford
Bowl Winners - Reeds
Bowl Runners Up - Cobham
Plate Winners - Sutton & Epsom and Rosslyn Park

We are also grateful to Savills our Mini Sponsors & Festival Title Sponsors plus the 2010 sponsors; Cooper Cobham Mini, Danes Hill School, JCDecaux, Guy Salmon Thames Ditton and touraid for their generous support.

Cobham were beaten by the smallest of margins at Fairmile Lane losing 25-24 to Portsmouth on Saturday, November 20th.

It leaves Cobham ninth in the London One South Division and the next game sees the 1sts travel to Chichester next Saturday.

Cobham's recent winning run came to an end in a tough encounter with Haywards Heath on Saturday, November 13th.

The early stages of the game were close but on the stroke of half-time Cobham were reduced to 14 men and Haywards Heath took full advantage.

Cobham play Portsmouth at Fairmile Lane this Saturday, November 20th,

Surrey U18 played Middlesex U18 on Sunday 31st October at Ruislip RFC and won 14-27 in a spirited and entertaining game.

Cobham supplied eight players within the Surrey Squad:

Gareth Powlson

Richard Thurston

Seb Sharpe

Tom Bliss

Tom Harty

Jordan Burns

Richard Hutton

Ben Edwards

Tom Flynn was chosen to play but then was called up to Dublin for an Ireland trial. Tom Bliss scored one of the Surrey tries.

Well done guys. Another unbeaten season for Surrey U18.

Surrey U16

Congratulations also to:

Harry Green 
Mario Zakakiotis 
Matias Galuccio 

Who played for Surrey U16 on Sunday 31st Oct. Unfortunately Surrey lost 23-17 but Harry and Matias both scored for Surrey.

Well done boys.

This season match reports continue to be authored by Paul Hickson who is a Partner at Seniors' sponsor Menzies, to whom we are as ever hugely endebted. If you like Paul's creative writing, you should also try his creative accounting...

Lets start by saying its going to be extremely difficult to do any sort of justice to this rugby match in words. 
 
Those Cobham supporters who were at the Memorial grounds, on the last day of Summer 2010, were witness to an enthralling, tense and ultimately enormously satisfying epic struggle. 
 
Cobham, a side growing in confidence every week met the unbeaten league leaders Tonbridge Juddians and when we use the word unbeaten that is not only the eight matches this Season but in their last  52 consecutive league matches.
 
Both clubs have made significant investments over the last three years and the emphasis at Cobham has been in developing the links between their highly successful youth and senior sections to support their avowed intention to play high class rugby from a traditional platform.
 
Cobham have scored tries this season directly from the kick off but on this occasion they were to be on the receiving end as the 'TJs' broke through the Cobham defence to set up a try for winger Jonny Farmer 0-5. Although the try was not converted there was an immediate understanding of why Tonbridge had that unbeaten record however having achieved their own slightly more modest unbeaten record Cobham came back strongly with Richard Jackson taking a quick tap penalty to set up Matt Johnson for a 12th minute equaliser 5-5 which Luke Flower converted 7-5. Tonbridge probably haven't been behind too many times in those 52 matches and with Cobham maintaining their superlative line out ball through the Gibbons/Goddard partnership in a signal that they knew they had a match on their hands Tonbridge made an early tactical substitution.
 
Cobham were forced to make their own substitution soon after when Director of Rugby Billy Davison came on because of  an injury to Leo Coates and as the home team continued to dominate play in the run down towards half time the TJ supporters were subdued as they contemplated losing the first half.
 
They must have been disappointed when a penalty attempt went wide but immediately from the kick off Farmer completed a brace of tries when he won the race to his kick ahead to touch down. The conversion was from exactly the same place as the previous unsuccessful penalty and number 10 Sam Barnett wasn't going to make the same mistake twice 7-12. 
 
Soon after the second half began Cobham provided as fine example as one would wish to see of a not so much a rolling but steamrolling maul that drove Tonbridge back into their 22 and ultimately lead to a penalty that Flower converted 10-12.
 
Cobham's confidence was growing all the time and even when a Rob Kennard kick was charged down by TJ number 12 Mr Sykes and converted by Barnett 10-19 you knew that Cobham would come back. Smithers having given 80 minutes in 50 made way for a debut by Leon Van Niekerk who had moved back to Cobham after spending some time at Peterborough.
 
Although captain Cowell was injured for this match the Cobham backline was being unleashed frequently and when a high tackle took down Andy Flower his brother Luke successfully converted the penalty 13-19 and getting closer. The play was all in Tonbridge's half now and Luke Flower took his opportunity from a tap kick forward to win the touch down and then convert 20-19 and in front.  
 
The Cobham Supporters now sensed an upset and the consecutive win record they were going to  bring to an end grew depending upon who you were speaking to and how many pints they had drunk.
 
However Cobham were not going to achieve this by one point alone they then proceeded to put together the best try of the match with Captain for the day Matt Johnson setting up Andy Flower for a try in the closing moments 25-19 that was converted by his brother to make it 27-19. 
 
The TJ's responded in the last 15 minutes looking to break Cobham's defence and we saw some crunching tackles from everyone but a special mention for Nunnie, Billy and Captain Johnson.
 
TJ's finally got a chance to reduce the deficit with the a last kick penalty of the match but as the ball went wide Cobham celebrated a wonderful victory 
 
I think the expression is  ' the crowd went wild ' as Cobham provided the first major upset in this years league.
 
This felt like a real turning point for Cobham and a vindication for Director of Rugby Billy in everything he has been looking to do in one of the best games seen at Fairmile Lane for many years.
 
Team
 
1 Tristan Lee
2 Chris Gibbons
3 Richard Nunn
4 Leo Coates
5 Joe Goddard
6 Neil Smitherman
7 Simon Ackroyd
8 Matt Johnson (Captain)
9 Rob Kennard
10 Luke Flower
11 Nick Sutton
12 Richard Jackson
13 Chris Moreton
14 Andy Flower 
15 Charlie Rooke
 
16 Leon Van Niekerk
17 Billy Davison
18 James MacDonald
 
Matt Johnson 1 try
Luke Flower 1 try
Andy Flower 1 try
 
Luke Flower 3 Conversions 2 Penalties

Chobham 1st XV 10 - Cobham 1st XV 37

JOHNSON LEADS THE WAY
 

This is, and will always be, a ding dong of a derby.
 
After 2 wins, Cobham were looking to make it 3 wins on the bounce and the Cobham supporters were not to be disappointed.
 
Cobham look the lead with a penalty from skipper Arran Cowell 3-0 to Cobham
 
With Andy Alexander injured and Richard Nunn not available Paul Mayer made his first start of the season for the 1stxv at Prop.
 
The pack continued the good work it has being doing over the last couple of weeks to dominate the scrum and line out.
 
Cobhams 1st try came in open play. With advantage and a penalty coming Luke flower attemped a drop goal which hit the cross bar  which the chasing Simon Ackroyd caught to pass to Nick Sutton who beat his opposite man to score in the corner. Cobham 8-0 up.
 
With Cobham on the attack a high and late hit on Cobham's Scrum half Rob Kennard by the Chobham hooker saw what was going to be a yellow card become red after an exchange of words with the ref.
 
Cobham took the penalty kick deep into the Chobham half. Joe Goddard was again leading the line out and with Chobham off side Arran Cowell took his 2nd penalty kick Cobham 11-0.
 
With Cobham having a man advantage and on the attack again Cobham took ball one way then switched play through Luke Flower who is settling in well at 10 and leading the line. The Ball went through the forwards hands with Chris Gibbons giving a deft pass for Matt Johnson to run onto to score his first try.
 
Cobham 16-0.
 
Johnson was then to get his 2nd try just before half time. With the scrum dominating johnson picked up from the base of the scrum just inside the Chobham 22 and took a number of the Chobham defenders with him as he went under the posts. Arran Cowell Converted.
 
Cobham 23-0 at half time.
 
Chobham kicked the 2nd half off and pinned Cobham back in their 22.
 
But Cobham's defence was holding strong and from turn over ball Cobham cleared their lines.
 
To Chobham's Credit they were not giving up and giving Cobham a hard time as is the way in these Derby's.
 
With changes being made on both sides Chobham's New wing took his chance and scored in the corner.
 
Cobham 23-5 Chobham
 
Mat Hahn came on for Neil Smitherman who had been running himself into the ground in defence and attack and the versitile Tristan Lee moved across to tight head and Aeren young came on for Paul Mayer at Loose head.
 
With Cobham back on the attack and camped on the Chobham line from a scrum Cobham were rewarded a penalty try which Luke Flower Converted with Arran Cowell going off with an injury and being replaced by Chris Moreton.
 
Cobham 30-5
 
Chobham then from the restart took another opportunity to score again in the corner to take the score to 30-10.
 
Cobham were to have the final word and a drive by the forwards out wide put Matt Johnson over for his hat trick and with luke Flower converting the final score was 37-10.
 
With 3 wins on the bounce Cobham are coming together and the new combinations are finally reaping their just rewards.
 
Cobham have a tough match next Saturday all support is very welcome as League leaders Tonbridge Juddians come to Fairmile Lane.
 
Team
 
1 Tristan Lee
2 Chris Gibbons
3 Paul Mayer
4 Joe Goddard
5 Leo Coates
6 Neil Smitherman
7 Simon Ackroyd
8 Matt Johnson
9 Rob Kennard
10 Luke Flower
11 Nick Sutton
12 Richard Jackson
13 Arran Cowell (Captain)
14 Andy Flower
15 Charlie Rooke
 
16 Aeren Young
17 Mat Hahn
18 Chris Moreton

In other games Cobham A XV beat Chobham 2ndxv 0 - 35 and Cobham 3rd XV beat Old Emmanuel 100-0

Congratulations to all the competing teams who enjoyed a fine autumn day at the Cobham Rugby 2010 Mini B Rugby Festival on Sunday October 10th.

Cobham teams enjoyed a good day taking honours in four of the six competitions with special regard to the U8s who matched their A team's performance of last week to win their Age Group outright.

Full Results

U7 Cup Effingham and Leatherhead
U7 Bowl Battersea Ironsides
U7 Plate Cobham

U8 Cup Cobham
U8 Bowl Battersea Ironsides & Cobham Barbarians
U8 Plate Effingham & Leatherhead

U9 Cup Sutton & Epsom
U9 Bowl Effingham & Leatherhead
U9 Plate Battersea Ironsides

U10 Cup Battersea Ironsides
U10 Bowl Cobham
U10 Plate Effingham & Leatherhead

U11 Cup Reeds
U11 Bowl Effingham & Leatherhead
U11 Plate Cobham

U12 Cup Guildford
U12 Bowl London Irish
U12 Plate Sutton & Epsom

• 'C' Festival - Sunday 7th November
• 'A' Festival - Sunday 3rd October - click here for results

Congratulations to all the teams who braved the weather for the Cobham Rugby 2010 Mini A Rugby Festival.

It was a very successful weekend for Cobham with the u8s, u10s, u11s and u12s all winning their respective age group tournaments and also for the u7s and u9s for winning the Plate.

Full Results

U7 Cup Effingham and Tonbridge Juddians (joint)
U7 Bowl London Irish
U7 Shield Camberley
U7 Plate Cobham

U8 Cup Cobham
U8 Bowl Camberley
U8 Shield Battersea Ironsides
U8 Plate Sutton & Epsom

U9 Cup Teddington
U9 Bowl Battersea Ironsides
U9 Plate Cobham

U10 Cup Cobham
U10 Bowl Battersea Ironsides and Camberley (joint)
U10 Plate Sutton & Epsom

U11 Cup Cobham
U11 Bowl Battersea Ironsides
U11 Plate Camberley

U12 Cup Cobham
U12 Bowl Tonbridge Juddians
U12 Plate Sutton & Epsom

-----

• 'A' Festival - Sunday 3rd October
• 'B' Festival - Sunday 10th October
• 'C' Festival - Sunday 7th November

We are grateful to Savills our Mini Sponsors & Festival Title Sponsors plus the 2010 sponsors; Cooper Cobham Mini, Danes Hill School, JCDecaux, Guy Salmon Thames Ditton and touraid for their generous support.

This season match reports continue to be authored by Paul Hickson who is a Partner at Seniors' sponsor Menzies, to whom we are as ever hugely endebted. If you like Paul's creative writing, you should also try his creative accounting...

Although Cobham had met Sutton & Epsom in many Surrey Cup games it was believed, by all concerned, that this was the first time they had met each other in a league match before.
 
It could nearly have been considered to be a friendly with Chris Gibbons ex Sutton & Epsom, hooking for Cobham and Gary Nash, ex Cobham, propping for Sutton & Epsom not forgetting to mention, Andy Maguire Cobham coach had been a captain of Sutton & Epsom in the nineties. He had to withstand some banter from the home supporters as he toured the touchline.
 
Leo Coates was making his debut in the second row and Luke Flower took the number 10 jersey from Arran Cowell to allow him to play outside centre. Richard Jackson made his first start as the inside centre. You know S & E have been in higher leagues because they have a stand, a commentator and they charge admission. However,with the better record this season Cobham were not going to be overawed and as in previous matches Cobham started strongly. Joe Goddard has played every match this season and his jumping and catching has been outstanding and it was from one of those collections that Cobham drove the maul towards the S & E line for Simon Ackroyd to touch down. Cowell easily converted 0-7 after just 10 minutes. 

Signal loud music and said commentator confirming the score. Cobham lost Shepard soon after and with only one backs replacement scrum half, Will Avery found himself on the wing.
 
Luke Flower was kicking well and the back line occasionally sparked but after 30 minutes a penalty to S &E saw their scrum half Munford pull back three points to make it 3-7.
 
After 35 minutes we thought that might be the final score when the Ref blew his whistle because he had himself gone down. However with assistance from Cobham Physio  'Sliver' ( as reported in the programme) he was soon back on his feet and signalling a try as S & E created some space for their second row Symonds to touch down. With Munford again being successful Cobham had seen their lead disappear 10-7 as half time came.
 
The sun was shining at Rugby lane but there was a wind as well and Cobham were going to obtain the benefit of that in the second half. 
 
After 50 minutes Cobham were awarded a penalty at some range out but Cowell made it look easy to tie the scores and that score line probably confirmed how tight the match was with neither side being able to impose themselves.
 
Will Avery provided a match saving tackle to stem a break away from S & E centre and then  Luke Flower's attempted drop kick was charged down but a resulting penalty gave Cowell the opportunity to put Cobham back in the lead 10-13.
 
Cobham then lost first, second row Coates ( prompt for Tristan Lee to move into the second row) and secondly Andy Alexander (prompt for Tristan Lee to move back to the front row).
 
S&E came back hard looking for a try but were to be undone by the use of their under 12s as mascots and ball boys. Its a great idea but wearing the same shirt as the first team squad can cause confusion as when it appeared the S & E winger passed the ball to the 4ft tall ball boy on the side line. Cobham line out, Goddard, Kennard relieving kick.
 
With the clock ticking down and the second nail biting finish in two weeks Cobham gave their supporters some angst when within two minutes of each other S & E Munford saw two penalty attempts fail, having not compensated for the impact of the wind.
 
They were to prove crucial misses as the Ref called time. We are not seeing everything Cobham has to offer yet but in two weeks we have secured two wins and 8 points. With Chobham having failed to score a point in their last two games Cobham may make it three on the trot but last week every London 1 South home side, except for one were successful. This week every home side, bar one, lost. Looks like being one of those seasons

Team

1 Tristan Lee
2 Chris Gibbons
3 Andy Alexander
4 Leo Coates
5 Joe Goddard
6 Neil Smitherman
7 Simon Ackroyd
8 Matt Johnson
9 Rob Kennard
10 Luke Flower
11 Murray Shepard
12 Richard Jackson
13 Arran Cowell (Captain)
14 Andy Flower
15 Charlie Rooke

16 Richard Nunn
17 Josh Brown
18 Will Avery

Simon Ackroyd 1 Try
Arran Cowell 1 conversion 2 penalties

This season match reports continue to be authored by Paul Hickson who is a Partner at Seniors' sponsor Menzies, to whom we are as ever hugely endebted. If you like Paul's creative writing, you should also try his creative accounting...

Cobham came into this match having only won one game and lost four this season Thanet had the same record.  This was a match they both needed to win.

The build up wasn't ideal for Cobham with injuries to Richard Nunn and Nick Sutton during Thursday night's training session meaning a swift return from a holiday in Windermere for Andy Alexander and a place on the bench for Richard Jackson ex Rosslyn Park.

It's been a baptism of fire for Captain Arran Cowell this season so, with Coach Billy Davison coming into the second row for this match and last year's Captain Jack spectating on the sidelines, he will have wanted Cobham coming out on top.

As in previous weeks Cobham took advantage from the kick off with Josh Brown setting up a ruck that eventually provided a penalty for Captain Cowell to convert 3-nil after 2 minutes.

Thanet had a chance to reply but missed their  kick however, it prefaced  10 minutes of sustained Wanderers pressure that eventually lead to number ,well we are not sure what number Tom Ash was as Thanet's  reverse  shirts don't have numbers but it was a cracking try. 3-5 converted by Aldridge 3-7.

This stirred Cobham and increased the intensity of their game such that Andy Alexander was able to drive over for a touchdown at the Clubhouse end which Cowell converted 10-7.

Thanet are known as the 'Comeback Kings'  so more Thanet pressure followed and after half an hour a close but unsuccessful drop goal was pounced on by numberless Ash and converted, 10-14.

The lead had changed four times in the first half and a further converted penalty by Cowell brought Cobham to within 1 point at 13-14.

Cobham are maintaining their youth policy this season and just before half time you could see why when from a scrum on the half way line with the backline positioned to the right Rob Kernard switched the ball to the left to unleash full back Rookie junior supported by 'Muzza' Shepard. They were not successful on this occasion but you just know one day they will be.

The second half started with a short kick off that Billy Davison read well but Thanet needed to win this match and further pressure provided them with a penalty in the 52nd minute 13-17.

Cowell was everywhere in this match, making some great tackles and always looking to get the back line moving. Cobham were frustrated by some 'interesting' referring decisions all afternoon, not that Thanet were holding back  in providing their share of penalties and in the 60th minute Cowell was successful again 16-17.

Having missed a long range penalty to put the match beyond doubt, Thanet gave away one too many penalties in the dying minutes of the game much to the chagrin of their supporters. The score line proved there wasn't much between these two sides but Cobham had their very own 'X Factor' as Cowell calmly converted his fifth kick of the afternoon 19-17. As the whistle blew there was relief and pure delight in the Cobham team and on the sidelines

'Sooner or later those who win are those who think they can' Richard Bach, an American novelist who has probably never seen Cobham play, sums it up.

Well done Cowell, well done Cobham.

Team

1Tristan Lee

2 Chris Gibbons#

3 Andy Alexander

4 Joe Goddard

5 Billy Davison

6 Neil Smitherman

7 Josh Brown

8 Matt Johnson

9 Rob Kennard

10 Arran Cowell (Captain)

11 Murray Shepard

12 Luke Flower

13 Chris Moreton

14 Andy Flower

15 Charlie Rooke

16 Aeren Young

17 Marc Lockwood

18 Richard Jackson

Andy Alexander 1 Try

Arran Cowell 1 Conversion, 4 penalties

Cobham headed to Beckenham making a number of changes again due to injuries and unavailability and gave a full debut to youngster Murray Shepard on the wing, Mat Hahn made his first start of the season at 8 and the bench saw Marc Lockwood coming into the squad. Cobham had a first for the season having 3 brothers in the same team Dave and Luke Flower on the bench and Andy starting on the wing.  Luke joining Cobham from Basingstoke this season.

Cobham again for the 4th week running  started brightly against their opponents Beckenham who have won 4 games on the bounce and are 2nd in the league. 

Cobham again dominating the scrum and for someone so new and young to senior rugby Joe Goddard was excellent again leading the line out.  

Cobham took the first points a move involving forwards and backs sent another youngster fullback Charlie Mortimer over the line for the 1st points of the game. Cobham 5-0 up.  
Again Cobham attacked the Beckenham line and a break by Murray shepard from midfield almost took Cobham further ahead with one man to beat but the ball slipped from the youngsters hands in the wet conditions.

In a 10 minute spell against the run of play Beckenham collected a loose ball in open play to score in the corner. 5-5.  Beckenham then came on the attack again just before half time scoring in the opposite corner.

2 injuries before half time saw replacements coming on with a hamstring injury to Billy Bates saw a debut for Luke Flower. Then a high tackle on Mat Hahn saw him leaving the pitch and Marc Lockwood coming on.

Cobham again started the 2nd half brightly and taking the first points, Luke Flower making an impact in the centre intercepting the ball to run in for his debut try. Charlie Mortimer converting Cobham 12-10 and all to play for.

Cobham were well in the match and playing well until  the momentum swung back Beckenham's way, 2 penalties kicks in succession making the score 16-12. 

Cobham were getting the rough edge of the decisions from the ref and after giving away a number of penalties, Cobham were down to 14 men for 10 minutes.  During this period Beckenham camped in the Cobham half they came away with 2 converted tries to take the score to 30-12.

Cobham spent the final 10 minutes in the Beckenham half applying pressure on the home side but could not  get over the white line.

Despite the loss Cobham again improved from the week before and new combinations are slowly coming together. For a side with so many new faces and young players  going through a tough period the spirit in the Camp is excellent and they all believe the corner will be turned sooner rather than later.
 
Cobham have a big match at home to Thanet Wanderers next Saturday all support is very welcome
 

Cobham Team
 
1 Andy Alexander
2 Chris Gibbons
3 Richard Nunn
4 Tristan Lee
5 Joe Goddard
6 Josh Brown
7 Simon Ackroyd
8 Mat Hahn 
9 Rob Kennard
10 Arran Cowell (Captain)
11 Murray Shepard
12 Chris Moreton
13 Billy Dates 
14 Andy Flower
15 Charlie Mortimer
 
16 Marc Lockwood
17 Luke Flower
18 Dave Flower

YOUTH RUGBY AT COBHAM GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

Youth rugby at Cobham has become increasingly successful, both on and off the pitch providing an opportunity for young lads to build on friendships and their rugby skills, always aiming to provide a balance to their school rugby commitments.

With over 250 players (aged from 12 to 18) Youth rugby also provides the bridge between Mini and Senior rugby with many of our current senior teams and the strong U21 side having lads who have played all the way through the Cobham Mini and Youth structure. Cobham Youth also continues to have unprecedented success with County, Divisional and International players. Last season’s U17 team became National Champions after taking on the best of the country’s club rugby teams.

Sporting their new OMAN shirts, players have begun training before the imminent start of league matches. 

Steve Heard, Chairman of Cobham Youth Rugby said: “Cobham Youth Rugby has become an increasingly important part of young players’ personal development through leadership within the sport and gives them success in their adolescent life.

“Not only will the Oman Tourist Board’s sponsorship of Cobham Youth Rugby raise the profile of Oman as a first class tourist destination, it will also give community sport through Cobham Rugby a boost as we develop young players for the rest of their rugby careers.”

Dear friends,

As we arrive at the start of a new rugby season, I am delighted to have been asked to take over as President from Ian Johnson. I have been really touched by the level of support that I have received from so many members and I am privileged to be the first President who has not played rugby for the club. I have had the distinct privilege though of being integrally involved in Cobham Sports for many years culminating most recently in the construction of our wonderful clubhouse and facilities.

We enter the new season in fine form both on and off the field. A lot has happened over the past few months in relation to the organisation of the club which seek to ensure its future and protect those who put so much effort into running this wonderful club. Cobham Rugby Club has now become a limited company in accordance with RFU recommendations, Cobham Sports has become a fully fledged Charity, and CSA Trading Ltd has taken over the running of the commercial aspects of the club e.g. the bar and events.

On the sporting side, we are delighted to welcome Cobham Netball Club back to the ground, which will be a good addition to Tennis and Lacrosse.

We have a busy social calendar set for the coming season thanks to the efforts of the Social committee. Details of these events can be accessed via the website. We also have five pre-match lunches planned for the following dates which I do hope you will support:-

A number of improvements to the ground are in hand or planned for the future including:

1. construction of a new ‘Premier Pitch’ in front of the club house,
2. extending the paved seating area in front of the pavilion,
3. installation of a proper ‘BBQ’ enclosure to the left hand side of the pavilion,
4. upgrading of the surfacing to the rear yard,
5. installation of new drainage to the turning area,
6. asphalting of the parking area up to the telecoms tower,
7. installation of a new Tennis court
8. additional furniture storage cupboards in the main bar area.

Following a full survey of the condition of all the trees around the ground, extensive works have been carried out to ensure that our trees are in a healthy and safe condition.  All these are needed to ensure that we provide the best possible facilities for our members and the sports which they play.

The senior side enters the new season in a good position in London 1 South and I’m sure under the captainship of Arran Cowell will capitalise on the excellent work done in previous seasons. Our Youth & Mini sections under the chairmanship of Steve Heard and Keiran Notter continue to go from strength to strength and in many respects set the standards for other clubs to aspire to.

May I commend to you the web site? By regularly accessing it you’ll see frequently updated news and information about all aspects of the club and is a primary way of keeping the communications flow going within our community, whether it be forthcoming fixtures and events or celebrating achievements at whatever level of the club.

As with all clubs, we rely hugely on volunteers and offers of help are always most welcome. If you have the time and are willing to do something to assist in the smooth running of this wonderful organisation, please contact our chairman Tony Balkwill or me. And if you don’t like the way something is done, then volunteer to fix it!

I am very conscious of the shoes into which I am stepping as your President and will do my very best to represent the club and promote its ideals of being the best and friendliest amateur club in the country.

Kindest regards

LIONEL FREWIN

Cobham Rugby President

Cobham went down 32-14 at Fairmile Lane to Dover on Saturday in game four of the London One South Season. 

However the A XV had a resounding win over Portsmouth 77-0 and the 3rd XV beat Old Reigatians 39-13.

Cobham U18 player, Alex Stout played on Monday night for Harlequins A against Gloucester United at The Stoop in a 36-26 win. Also in the team was Joe Trayfoot, an old Cobham lad and just goes to show what form Cobham Youth are producing these days, playing the role of feeder to Premiership clubs like Quins.

Well done Alex and Joe.

Jack Clifford, a stalwart member of last season's National U17 Champions squad, has been selected as part of the England U18 squad for this season's games.

Jack has had to overcome several set backs with injury over recent years, but has come back fitter and stronger, evidenced by his elevation to the England squad.

Well done Jack from everyone at Cobham.

The 1sts were beaten at home by London Irish 38-14 in their first home league game of the season in London South Division One.

Playing against newly promoted London Irish, Cobham started brightly and took the lead.

But they were pegged back by Irish and despite late pressure were unable to reduce the deficit making it one win and one loss for the season so far.

For the match report and pictures click here.

 The AXV also played London Irish at Fairmile Lane in the London 1 South Reserve League and were beaten 22-15.

Early tries from London Irish were pulled back and in the second half the As were unlucky not to get back in the game.

Next week, September 18th, both the 1sts and As are away at Wimbledon.

Cobham recorded a sound victory on the opening day of the London South Division One season on Saturday by beating Tunbridge Wells 24-0.

A full match report is available by clicking here while pictures of the day can be seen by clicking here.

Also, the AXV beat their Tunbridge Wells counterparts 31-10 in their first competitive game of the season.

Based within walking distance of the club’s grounds, Mundays LLP are very pleased to be able to continue our support of Cobham Rugby club into its 5th year and looks forward to the club achieving continued success at all levels.

Mundays is one of the largest legal practices in the region. Our experienced team of lawyers provides city expertise at competitive local rates.

Our clients' range from publicly listed companies to private individuals and we pride ourselves on giving a personal service tailored to each client's needs.

Mundays has a number of core practice areas:
- Corporate and Commercial 
- Residential Property 
- Commercial Property 
- Dispute Resolution - both domestic and commercial 
- Employment 
- Private Wealth 
- Family 

Mundays also has specialist knowledge and comprehensive experience in a wide range of business sectors including technology, healthcare, logistics, property development, leisure and banking.

If you want to be ahead of the game with any type of legal advice why not get in touch?

Phone: 01932 590500 / Web: www.mundays.co.uk 
/ Email: marketing@mundays.co.uk 

This season, Cobham have made a firm commitment to compete in the Surrey U21 competition. This competition involves 24 clubs, and we find ourselves in an initial pool of three team with Guildford and Effingham & Leatherhead.

Fixtures are earmarked to be played over the school / university holiday periods, thus encouraging returning students to play for their home clubs.

Our opening fixture against Guildford was always going to be a challenge. We understood the Guildford side to consist primarily of their very successful U19 squad. The Cobham side was made up from a fairly even split of players across the U21, U20 and U19 age groups’ plus a representation of Gareth Powlson from the National Champions winning U17 team. On paper we were strong, although possibly lacking an element of cohesion and match fitness. Under the guidance of the coaching team Bill Davison, Robbie Kennard and Dave Silver and the captaincy of Alex Crane we prepared and were ready to get the competition underway.

Cobham kicked off and from the start made strong inroads into the Guildford half. It was evident early on that the Cobham lineout play of Crane and Goddard would be dominant, being found with ease from the throwing in by Bass. Likewise in the scrum Cobham seemed to have the edge, with a front row all of which played senior 1st or 2nd XV rugby last season, despite the reluctance of Cairns playing in the unfamiliar role of tight head. In the backs we looked sharp and eventually from a scrum, and quick hands through the three quarters, Sam Yates went over in the corner to score Cobham’s first try, which was unconverted.

Overall Cobham looked the more composed and structured team with further scores in this half failing to come due to marginal errors and a very determined Guildford defence. For the final 10 minutes of this half, Guildford finish strongly, with Cobham being at the wrong end of a number of penalty decisions, and they were unlucky not to score, held out by some resolute Cobham tackling and superb work rate from the back row of Brown, Rowson and Li. The first half concluded with Cobham 5-0 up, although feeling that perhaps it should have been more.

With several changes made at half time, the 2nd half started with almost an immediate penalty awarded to Guildford which they kicked to get their first points on the board. Cobham did not panic and within five minutes created another try scoring opportunity, started by Fullback Charlie Rooke  who took yet another superb high ball and started a high intensity counter attack which culminated in fly half Tim Forster going over under the posts, which he duly converted. Guildford continued with their tenacious defence and held Cobham up on the line. From the resulting scrum, Forster again found the gap and went in unopposed under the posts and converted.

Cobham made further changes throughout the 2nd half, making full use of the 24 man squad that had been assembled, and despite Guildford match them for numbers, the Cobham strength in depth was now evident as the game seemingly remained camped in the Guildford half. Cobham’s 4th try came through fantastic interaction between forwards and backs, resulting in Sam Yates crossing over for his second of the match, and again converted by Forster.

Continued domination in the tight combined with attacking flair, Oli Scott went over in the corner for Cobham’s fifth whilst the sixth and final try came via the very impressive Charlie Mortimor. The final whistle blew with Cobham coming away victorious winning 36-3, pleasing all players, coaches and the band of loyal Cobham supporters.

Overall this was a superb squad performance, and the fact that we were able to utilise all 24 players, with significant number of others unavailable clearly shows the potential this squad has for the competition this season and for further years to come.

The Cobham U21 squad is an essential platform for integrating youth players into the senior set-up and many of the players fielded have had significant senior experience already. We are already looking forward to assembling the squad for our next pool match against Effingham at Home over the Christmas period, and we wish Guildford all the best for their remaining matches.

Scorers

Sam Yates  2  Tries

Oli Scott 1 Try

Charlie Mortimer 1 Try

Tom Forster 2 Tries 3 Conversions

Cobham Squad

1 Aeren Young

2 Karl Bass

3 Harry “The Bag” Cairns

4 Joe Goddard

5 Alex Crane (Captain)

6 Josh Brown

7 Max Rowson

8 Josh Li

9 Patrick Disley-May

10 Tom Forster                                       

11 Jake Joyce

12 Gareth Powlson

13 Callum Williams

14 Sam Yates                                           

15 Charlie Rooke

Bench

16 Dyl Salamon

17 Piers Pavey

18 Alex Humber

19 Chris Blacketer

20 Stuart Riddler

21 Oli Scott                                               

22 Charlie Mortimer                             

23 Jack Spencer

24 Ed Perrson

Match Report by Churchill

Shoreham 0 v Cobham 25
 
Cobham took a large 1st XV squad made up with a mix of experience and youth to the coast last Saturday, 21st August.
 
Of the 32 players, 10 made their debuts for Cobham including number of Cobham's younger brigade, Joe Goddard, Sam Yates, Ollie Scott and Alex Orchard.
 
There were 5 tries scored, the first 3 from youngsters, Wingers Charlie Rooke and James Macdonald and debutant Centre Alex Orchard playing along side Captain for the weekend Disco (David MacCallum). The final 2 tries coming from senior players Nick Sutton & Chris Moreton.
 
To Shoreham's credit they battled bravely and never gave in against a more experienced and youthful Cobham squad.
 
A good tour was had by all with all players giving Billy Davison and the senior management plenty to think about before the 1st League match away at Tunbridge Wells on 4th September.
 
The next match for 1st XV squad is away at Staines RFC on Thursday 26th August, 7.45pm Kick Off. 
 
All support Welcome.

The oversubscribed sportsman's dinner held at the Club on Friday 2^nd July with Dean Richards as our guest speaker was a huge success with everyone enjoying great food (courtesy of Vanilla Bean) and a plentiful supply of lubricant. Dean Richards was open, humorous and somewhat humble in his key speech and we offer our huge thanks for coming along to the club and enjoying an evening with us. We hope he’ll be able to do it again sometime – he’s always welcome at Cobham.

The evening also provided us with an opportunity to raise funds for a select group of charities – we raised over £5,000 on the night and the money will be distributed as follows:

£600 to Daniel's Promise

£600 to Elmbridge Community Link

£600 to Oasis Childcare

£2100 to an orphanage in Nepal called Child Bright Future  

The remaining funds were passed into the club coffers to mitigate the debt we have on the clubhouse.

Great evening – have to do it again sometime soon. 

Captain's Words

When Billy first asked me if I would be interested in captaining Cobham, I was literally lost for words. Possibly because I was on the other side of the World, had just woken up on a Sunday morning with a raging hangover, and could barely string two words together Or maybe because Billy was ‘three sheets to the wind’ at a rugby dinner with the boys, and I thought it was a wind up! 

In all honesty, I was very humbled and said yes immediately. Cobham is a wonderful Club to play rugby for, and I feel very honoured to have been given the opportunity to Captain the 1st XV.

My aim will be to build upon the successes that the club has enjoyed during recent seasons under the captaincy of Jack Davison, and if I can replicate even a small percentage of what Jack has helped us achieve during his tenure, I will be greatly satisfied.

The 2010-11 Season is an incredibly exciting prospect. London 1 South has again been strengthened by the arrival of some formidable opponents, with the likes of Haywards Heath, London Irish Amateurs and Sutton & Epsom providing some tough battles and fierce local derbies. But if we continue to perform as we have done over the last two seasons at this level, I’m certain we have what it takes to again challenge at the top of the table.

National league rugby is a goal I know we’re all working towards at the club, and I’m extremely motivated to help us reach that target as soon as possible. 

Billy and the coaching team have carefully assembled this season's squad with a focus on giving us the best chance to be competitive in the league, and to put us in a position to challenge for promotion come April 2011. The squad is made up of a mixture of the remaining 1st XV, a number of key new recruits and several additions from our youth structure. 

I’m excited to see a strong link being forged with our vastly talented youth section, over the past two seasons I’ve seen several high quality players make the step up to the 1st XV, and their introduction has played a major part in the clubs recent success. I look forward to seeing more players progressing through to the senior squads over the coming years, helping Cobham Rugby maintain its strength long into the future. It will certainly help keep us older players more youthful, and very much on our toes.

Here's to another winning season of Cobham Rugby, both on and off the field.

Arran Cowell
1st XV Captain

Three Cobham players will feature for Quins on Friday August 13th at an under 17 Academy Cup.

Rory Anderson, Tom Hilton Stevens and George Taylor are all selected in the Squad.

The tournament, which will be held at Saracens Old Albanians training ground in St. Albans, has Quins in a group with Saracens, Ulster Rugby and Worcester Warriers with Quins first game against Saracens kick off at 12.00.

For further information please click here to visit the Quins website.

Meanhwhile Cobham old boy Joe Trayfoot and current Under 18 player Jack Clifford will be playing for Harlequins in the Middlesex Sevens this Saturday August 14th at Twickenham.

They will of course will be following in the steps of our Senior Chairman (Tony Balkwill) and our Director of Rugby (Billy Davison) who played on the  hallowed turf for the Old Surbs several years ago .... See the photo on our Club History page or close-up on the stairs at the clubhouse.  Good luck to both!

And last Friday there was also strong Cobham representation in the J.P Morgan Asset Management Premiership Rugby Sevens Series held at Bath Rugby.

For a full report please click here.

Senior training at the club as follows:

Any new players are welcome to attend the training sessions and we would like to strongly encourage as many of next season's Cobham U18 and U17 players.

Thursday 29th July - 7:30-9:00pm     Cobham RFC

All Training dates now at Cobham RFC (unless notified) Tuesday and Thursday from 7:30pm

Anybody who is new to the club please contact Chris Melton via email (by clicking his name). New players are always welcome to our friendly amateur club, one of the best in the region.

For details of the 1sts pre-season joint training sessions and matches please click here.

Fixtures for the new season can be found on the 1sts fixtures page, with the first game of the season away against Tunbridge Wells on Saturday September 4th.

On Thursday 3rd June Surrey RFU held their annual gathering and awards at Twickenham to celebrate another very successful year of Surrey Rugby. Cobham were well represented accepting Youth League awards.

The U17 team were re-awarded their cups as the London and South East Divisional champions and also the RFU National Cup after their win against Bedford recently.

(photo courtesy of Scrumpix -  www.scrumpix.co.uk)

The very prestigous Surrey U17 Player of the Year award was presented to Tom Flynn, who also received Surrey half Colours. The Most Improved Surrey U17 player (who plays for Cobham U16) was Ollie Ramagge.

Tom Flynn was joined by his grandfather and also his father who had flown over from Singapore especially for the awards ceremony.

Well done to all.

The 2009-2010 has certainly been a landmark season for the Cobham Youth Section. With some 220 players playing regular matches our section continues to grow and thrive.

Our Under 13s wait to see if they are promoted to League 1.The only game they lost was by 2 points to the eventual winners of the league. Unfortunately they were prevented from playing all their games by a club which was unwilling to cancel a friendly in preference to league games. The B team had a very good season too, finishing second in League 4 behind a very strong Old Reigatians A team. Well done to the coaches Gary Bownes and Rob Penfold and the managing duo of Dino Adams and Denise Symons who keep all the boys in order. 

Following their success in winning League 2 last year the Under 14s had a difficult season. Despite competing very well in many games, notably against Richmond, Effingham and Esher, where on each occasion they finished the wrong side of close games, they ended the season in a relegation position. Despite this, the squad put up a great performance in the Cobham 10s tournament where they lost in a tight final to Sutton and Epsom, runners up in League 1.  Although they were stretched on occasions this year it was great that they were able to field a B team to complete the league fixtures.

While this season was slightly disappointing there is much to build on for next season and I am sure that they will be making a strong push for promotion under the guidance of Jonathan Fussell, Nick Hyams and Mike Frisby. 

Well done to our Under 15s this season who achieved their best ever position to finish second behind London Irish in League 1. Despite a disappointing start in losing a close game to Old Reigatians, the boys came back strongly to score more bonus points overall than any other club. In one notable game that I had the pleasure of watching they pushed London Irish (the eventual league winners) hard before going down 22-14; overall a great advert for all that is good about Surrey Youth Rugby. This age group has made good progress this season under the coaching guidance of Martin Green and the management team of Tony Morrison and Brian Sullivan.

Many congratulations to the boys, parents, coaches and players of the Under 16s for what, without a doubt, was a fantastic season. In a closely fought league they really did go to the wire and it was only with the last league game that they won League 1 for the first time and then only by a single point! In addition to their league success they have added extensively to the club’s honours board. Well done to Jordon Burns (England U16) Ben Edwards (Wales U16), Rory Anderson (England U16A) and Tom Hilton Stevens (England U16A) and also to the whole squad who won several league games while these boys were on International duty. Tim Yates, Taff Edwards and Tom Doran have worked hard with the boys over the last few seasons.

It has also been an amazingly successful year for the Under 17 squad. The A squad won the League 1 title for the fifth year (seventh including the mini age-groups of U11 and U12). The squad showed strength in depth with the B team coming top in League 2 for the first time having played against all A teams. The goal for this age group was always to do well in the National Under 17s tournament.   After a good win against a strong and well organised Old Albanians side in the regional final and an equally good display against Gloucester champions in the semi final, they took their place in the final at Franklins Gardens against Bedford. After a great all round performance and in a feast of running rugby many jubilant Cobham supporters saw them crowned National Under 17 champions. Congratulations to all involved but particularly the coaching team of Neil McCallum, Paul Markham and Mark Harty and the management team of Chris Mays and Roy Bliss. A truly memorable day!

Lastly to the Under 18s. This year due to school commitments we were unable to field a full under 18 team. However several of the boys made their debuts in senior sides, perhaps most encouragingly in the Surrey Trophy final at Imber Court where we fielded a very young 1XV including Charlie Rooke (U18s), James Macdonald (U18s), Josh Brown (U19s), Harry Cairns (U19s) and Will Merrett (U20s). This shows how the senior teams are benefiting as our youth teams develop.

Finally a big thank you to all of the volunteers, coaches, managers and parents who all make this possible. I realise that a wet Sunday morning or lunchtime may not always be the most appealing thing, but it is due to your efforts that the players and the Youth section continues to develop. Hope to see you all in September for what I am sure will be another fun and challenging season.

Steve Heard 
Youth Chairman 

National Cup Final

Update: For access to some of the professionally taken photos click here and search for Cobham

Northampton – Sunday 2^nd May

They played as a squad and they won as a squad, the Cobham U17 team travelled to Northampton Saints Ground to play Bedford in the final of the National U17 Cup competition on Sunday 2nd May.

From a 17-3 half time score to run out winners 55-3, this was an emphatic win for the lads who played the best rugby that many spectators had ever seen played. Match report click here.

A special note of thanks to all those who travelled to Northampton to watch the game - from Cobham teams young and old, from school sports departments, friends & family from all over - thank you; your support was greatly appreciated.

Cobham U17 - National Champions!

Match report author Paul Hickson is Partner at Seniors' sponsor Menzies. We are as ever hugely endebted for all his reports this season, as well as the continued support of Menzies.

Two Cup matches in less than 4 days was always going to prove a big ask and so it proved to be at Imber Court in the Surrey Trophy final against London Irish Amateurs.

The 'Wild Geese' had just won promotion to our league following 16 consecutive league victories so this was  going to be a hard fought game. Although it was the May Bank holiday the expression 'nice weather for ducks' came to mind as everyone sheltered in the stand from the constant drizzle. Presumably the saying is as appropriate for 'wild geese' and should have been an omen for what followed.

Cobham were unable to field Dan Taylor following his injury mid week against Warlingham  (but it was good to see him as a spectator albeit on crutches in the stand)  so there was a debut for 17 year old Charlie Rooke on the wing with Tim Green moving to inside centre. The subs bench was also looking more youthful than usual with several young guns awaiting their opportunity. As will be seen they all got to represent Cobham as the match progressed.

The teams spent the first ten minutes sounding each other out and missing penalties on a pitch cut up by two previous matches on the day. Cobham could not take any advantage of a London Irish yellow card for their back row number 6 despite some looping runs from Disco MacCallum and the first penalty went to Irish 3-0.

Kevin Fisher provided a try saving tackle on the Irish wing number 11 and soon after there was a try disallowed for the very unIrish sounding number 10 Mike English. Cobham's Welshman with an Irish sounding name Tim Green was then able to restore the equilibrium to make it 3-3.

Captain Jack and Matt Johnson were scragging the Irish back line when ever they could but despite the Cobham pack winning up front Irish were always looking dangerous with the ball in hand. Number 13 Ben Kitching always looking to break the line and it needed some tough defence from Cobham to withstand the pressure, even more so when prop Richard Nunn was yellow carded. (A decision Tom Schofield could only describe as 'bizarre'). From the penalty Irish were close enough to edge in front 6-3 but just before the Cobham substitutes started to make their appearances Tim held his nerve to get Cobham back to even steven 6-6.

As perhaps a reflection of it being the end of the long season injuries saw Aeren Young on for Alex Cooke, Rob Frost for Jamie Durward and Will Merrit for Will Avery and we hadn't reached half time.

At one point it looked as if a lack of balls might abandon the game as the leylandi hedge opposite the stand swallowed up the defensive kicks from both sides and thoughts were turning to what happened in the event of a draw. Tom said that there was to be no extra time and the match would be decided on try count back so that all sounded very Irish and didn't get us very far.

So as if to answer the question Irish put together a backline move that saw the dangerous Mr Kitching into the corner to make it 11-6 for the first try of the match in the 61st minute. You could hear Captain Jack's exhortations to the team from the stand.

More Cobham substitutions to provide fresh legs, Josh Brown, James McDonald and making his first team debut, Harry 'the bag' Cairns but as the clock ticked down you could see that one score was all there was between the teams and so it was to prove as the final whistle blew.

Cobham have enjoyed highs and some lows this season and will not have wanted to lose this match but the spirit of the team is extremely strong and they will look back on the season with immense pride. The WAGS will now feel able to produce the lists of DIY assignments they have been producing all winter for the summer Saturdays that now follow (but be quick because there are actually only 18 of them).

Whilst comparing Cobham's fortunes with the American Civil Rights movement may not necessarily be apropos with the news that the Under 17s had emphatically won the RFU National Cup match against Bedford 55-3 we end with a Martin Luther King quote

Cobham Squad

1 Andy Alexander

2 Alex Cook (Aeren Young)

3 Richard Nunn (Harry Cairns)

4 Tristan Lee

5 Jamie Durward (Rob Frost)

6 Ben Creed (Josh Brown)

7 Matt Johnson

8 Jack Davison (Captain)

9 Will Avery (Will Merrett)

10 David MacCallum (Vice Captain)

11 Charlie Rooke

12 Tim Green

13 Kevin Fisher

14 Chris Moreton

15 Nick Sutton (James MacDonald)

16 Harry Cairns

17 Aeren Young

18 Rob Frost

19 Josh Brown

20 Will Merrett

21 Andy Flower

22 James MacDonald

Scorers: Tim Green 2 Penalties

The Cobham Mini section enjoyed a tremendous bank holiday weekend playing at the Gullivers Mini & Junior Rugby 2010 Festival hosted by Burnham on Sea RFC.

The Cobham Giants and Cobham Tigers teams picked up the main honours in three age groups, had two teams as Cup Finalists and also won a Bowl.

Results

U9 Cup Cobham Tigers winners; Giants runners up (2-0)

The Tour Organisers said that having one club with two teams in the Cup Final was the first time that this had happened in their memory!

U10 Bowl winners Cobham Tigers; Giants Cup runners up 

U11 Cup winners Cobham Tigers; Giants competed in League

U12 Cup winners Cobham Tigers; Giants runners up in Bowl

For further details, reports etc please consult your age group pages.  However Tour Rules reporting restrictions prevent disclosure of non-playing activities.

What goes on tour stays on tour!

There were two International tournaments recently featuring lads from Cobham U16:

ROME TOURNAMENT

Cobham U16 had two players in the International 4 Nations Under 17 tournament which took place in Rome between the 10th and 17th of April with Jordan Burns representing England and Ben Edwards representing Wales.

This was a very tough tournament as England and Wales are represented by under 16 teams while France and Italy field under 17 teams.

The final pair of matches England V Italy and Wales V France was played at Stadio Flamino in front of a large crowd and Wales losing by 2 points to France to end the tournament in second place and England beating Italy by a point (helped by a try from Jordan Burns)  to finish in third place ahead of Italy.

WELLINGTON TOURNAMENT

Two Cobham U16 players, back-row Rory Anderson and lock Tom Hilton-Stevens, played for England U16A at the recent Wellington International Festival held at Wellington College, Berkshire. Other teams at the tournament included Belgium, Canada, France A, Italy A and Portugal.  England narrowly lost their first game 5 - 7 to Scotland U17, had a comfortable 52 - 3 win against Belgium U17 before losing a tight final game to France U17A, 10 - 20.

Rory Andersen (L) and Tom Hilton-Stevens

Martin Corry, former England Captain, World Cup Winner in 2003, British & Irish Lions and Leicester player drove all the way from Leicester to take training at Cobham on Tuesday. Having heard of the prowess of Cobham's U17 team and their forthcoming National Cup final it was great to see Martin pass on so many gems of his vast experience in some very simple yet effective drills.

Lads - don't forget the aircraft taking off, not landing.

For the players to be with Martin was a great way to spend the training build up to Sunday's game. Thank you Martin - it was greatly appreciated. And a big thank you to Chris Mays for rasing his hand at the Charity Auction too many times.

Even the Mums enjoyed the evening too!

Cobham U17s - National Semi Final

Sunday 18th April

Cobham U17 continued with another win and a dominant performance at Henley RFC against South West Champions Matson RFC in a tough encounter running out winners 29-8 (22-3 at half time). Match report click here.

The final will now take place on Sunday 2nd May at Northampton Saints' ground Franklins Gardens. Details TBC. We are looking at providing coaches (of a mechanised kind) to take players and supporters along. Keep watching the web site for more details.

Well done to all the players.

Cobham U17s – Regional Final 28^th March

In a tough game against Old Albanians, Cobham were victors by 18-7 and were crowned London and South East Regional Cup champions for 2010.

Next step is the National Semi Final to be played on Sunday 18th April at Henley RFC against the winners of the South West Division, Matson RFC.

For the match report click here.

Many thanks to all the travelling supporters.

Well done lads!

Cobham U17 has been invited to represent Surrey in the main Cup (there is also a Plate, Bowl and Shield competition run concurrently). This is something the squad and indeed the club are immensely proud of. This team of young men, many of whom have played together through Cobham Minis, have won the Surrey Youth championships every year since U13, indeed having won the Surrey Minis at U11 and U12 too.

This is a knockout competition with all that that entails. You are encouraged to come along and support as vociferously as you can. Please make it a date and support these guys who undoubtedly will be the future of the senior side at Cobham, but also show a path from the days playing with sponge balls at the tender age of 5. 

Cobham teams came out on top in the Computacenter 10's Youth Festival this Sunday, April 18th.

In the U16 competition Cobham ran out Cup Winners in splendid sunshine at the Fairmile Lane Memorial Ground.

Capping off a great day, in the U13 competition Cobham beat Hove in the final 35-7 to win the Cup

In the U14 competition Cobham lost in a close final to Sutton & Epsom.

But in the U15 competition Cobham won the Plate.

Full Results:

PITCH 1    
U14 Sutton & Epsom    28    Hove    14
U15 Lewes        14               Cobham    7
U16 Cobham        28            Staines    7
U14 Sutton & Epsom    21    Cobham    21
U16 Cobham        63            Harrow    14
U16 Staines        0               Henley    21
U15 Lewes        7                L Scottish    12
U16 Cobham        45            Henley    0
                    
PITCH 2    
U13 Wimbledon        7    Hove    36
U15 Esher        0             L Scottish    21
U16 Henley        19         Harrow    7
U14 Hove        49            Thanet     0
U15 Lewes        28          Esher    35
U13 Wimbledon       21    Cobham    47
U14 Sutton & Epsom 28    Thanet     7
U16 Staines        14          Harrow    19
                
PITCH 3    
U13 Esher              7    Cobham    35
U14 Cobham        38    Thanet    0
U13 Wimbledon    14    Esher    14
U13  Hove        14        Cobham    26
U15 Cobham        7      L Scottish    35
U13  Hove        35        Esher    7
U14 Cobham        28    Hove    5
U15 Cobham        35    Esher    7

U13 Plate Final        Esher        14    Wimbledon    28
U13 Cup Final          Cobham     35    Hove    7

U14 Plate Final        Hove            7    Thanet    14
U14 Cup Final          Cobham      28    Sutton & Epsom    35

U15 Plate Final        Cobham      56    Esher    28
U15 Cup Final          London Scottish    21    Lewes    14

U16 Plate Final        Harrow        12    Staines    
U16 Cup Final          Cobham        BYE    Henley   

We are delighted to announce that Mundays have re-signed as the Main Rugby Sponsor.

Our thanks to Miles Unwin, Mundays Partner for making this possible and taking over from Bob Bruce.

Please contact Mundays for all your individual or business legal services. 

Mundays Solicitors is a leading UK law firm, providing top quality legal services to businesses and individuals. With its headquarters in Cobham, Surrey and close International links, their lawyers are ideally situated to deliver extensive corporate legal advice to a broad range of commercial enterprises throughout London, the South East, UK and Europe.  

Corporate and commercial services include:    
•    Mergers & acquisitions (M & A) 
•    Flotations 
•    Investor/shareholder arrangements 
•    Partnership agreements 
•    Corporate finance 
•    Joint ventures 
•    Acquisitions & disposals 
•    Corporate recovery / insolvency 
•    Trademarks, copyright law & intellectual property (IP) 
•    Franchising 
•    Commercial property     

Specialist teams have extensive industry experience in areas including:

•    Banking 
•    Construction 
•    Healthcare 
•    Leisure 
•    Logistics 
•    Residential Property Development 
•    IT / Technology 

The needs of their private clients are equally well served by dedicated Family, Property Conveyancing and Employment Law teams and the Private Wealth team, whose services include advice on inheritance tax and estate planning.
Mundays believe our lawyers and support staff provide a level of legal service and professionalism second to none. Our expertise rivals that of any West End or City firm and our fees represent excellent value for money.

To visit our website please click here

Alternatively email: enq@mundays.co.uk or call 01932 590500.

Match report author Paul Hickson is Partner at Seniors' sponsor Menzies. We are as ever hugely endebted for all his reports this season, as well as the continued support of Menzies.

 They say a week is a long time in politics (a day is probably enough for Gordon Brown). Two and half weeks since Cobham's last game of rugby would have felt like a life time as the team gathered at Warlingham's ground for an 8pm semi final Surrey Cup fixture on Wednesday 28th April.　

'Warly' or 'The Wallies' as they are known have an enthusiastic band of supporters and the appeal of Summer evening kick off brought them out in their hundreds. Cobham's supporters felt they had to move around a lot to provide the appearance of numbers.　

Cobham's entrance into the Surrey Cup had been delayed but Warlingham already had a win under their belt and they started the match as if the league difference between them didn't matter. Indeed the intensity and passion of Warlingham was a feature of their play all evening. They wanted to beat Cobham and it showed.　

Cobham were always going to take some time to warm up and their cause wasn't helped by playing up the slope. Two converted penalties by Warlingham in quick succession provided a score line of 6-0 and although Cobham had one brief passage of play which showed their class handling and enabled Tim Green to get a penalty back, 6-3 the first half was all Warlingham. This was crowned by an impressive run in by their standoff to make it 13-3 following the conversion (although Nick Sutton nearly achieved the impossible of charging down the kick). 　

Nick Sutton was soon faced with another impossible moment which can only really be described as a rerun of Mike Catt's experience at the hands of Jonah Lomu in the 1995 World Cup. However on this occasion it was a prop forward and somehow Nick ensured he wouldn't get past so history didn't repeat itself completely.　

Warlingham did get a penalty out of the ensuring ruck though and Captain Jack got a yellow card so when half time arrived the score was as Colin Johnson put it 　Warlingham 'quite a lot' Cobham 3.

It could have been a bit depressing at this point but one of the Warly fans provided some comfort by discounting that lead and saying Cobham would run away with it in the second half. This particular fan had obviously spent many an afternoon watching Warlingham pluck defeat from the jaws of victory.

The second half started with Cobham still down to 14 men but with Dan Taylor providing penetrating kicks into opposition territory, from a line out and an　exceptionally well controlled rolling maul Alex Cooke was driven over to bring the score back to 16-8. Although the try was in the corner Tim Green was 'on fire' with his kicking and the conversion sailed over 16-10.　

Tom Schofield was getting 5 minute phone calls from Tony Balkwill and was assuaging his concern by confirming that Cobham were 'warming up nicely' (after 60 minutes) but that didn't stop Warlingham extending their lead by another well kicked penalty 19-10 only to be cancelled out by another fine kick from Tim 19-13.

Billy had been pacing up and down on the sidelines up until now but now came on as a substitute. Within minutes Cobham had another score, this time from Chris Moreton on the wing who demonstrated a searing pace to not only elude his man but also touch down as close to the uprights as possible to give Tim an improved chance, which he took 19-20.

As the match was being played on the second team pitch　there was no scoreboard to show this score line and for some time Cobham didn't realise they were in front. That may have assisted because as Warlingham threw everything at Cobham they were repealed and Cobham were still looking to attack. Tim Green was barging his way through as only Tim can. Will Avery was finding space out of nothing and Kevin and Disco were linking up as the back line clicked. However it was Dan's relieving kicks that were controlling the final moments of this exciting cup game. It was therefore　particularly upsetting to see him go down with just a minute of the game to play with a serious knee injury. It's at times like this that the players are grateful for Dave Silver's expertise and calm demeanour.　

Whilst kicking to touch would have been the easiest way for Cobham to finish the match, from the resulting scrum Chris Moreton was released for another electric run down the wing to make it 19-25 which Tim nonchalantly converted from wide out for a final score of 19-27.

It had indeed been a game of two halves and the Warlingham supporter had indeed predicted the unexpected final result

The Under 17 's in the National Finals and Cobham in the Surrey Trophy final. May 2nd could be a big day for Cobham.

Postscript:

If your not travelling to watch the U17's in the National Cup final at Northampton, (all the best to the U17's from 1stxv squad for Sunday) please come and support the 1stxv as they play London Irish Amateurs in the Surrey Trophy Final at Imber Court, 2pm kick off.

Match report author Paul Hickson is Partner at Seniors' sponsor Menzies. We are as ever hugely endebted for all his reports this season, as well as the continued support of Menzies.

There was a symmetrical end to the league season as our final opponents, Chichester had been our first way back in September. On that occasion we had lost 10-8 so apart from wanting to finish the season with a win there was unfinished business.  However as if all that wasn't enough of an incentive it was also Jack Davison's final league match as club captain and no one wanted him to 'retire' with a defeat ringing in his ears.

In what was to prove to be a Davison afternoon the match had been preceded by a Club lunch during which Mags Davison was thanked for all her hard work as commercial manager of CSA during the initial two years. So there was something of a retirement theme to the proceedings as the match kicked off in glorious sunshine.

From the kick off Chichester retained possession and drove forward into Cobham's half and it was a full 8 minutes before Cobham got their hands onto the ball. When they did it it came as a something of a surprise especially for Billy Davison who intercepted found himself in space, possibly a bit too much space as far as he was concerned, so remembering that he isn't expected to run the length the pitch he off-loaded to Disco, although it didn't look like he wanted it that much either.

However whilst that move faltered Billy's next touch of the ball was on the burst to crash over for his first try of the season and with Tim Green converting Cobham were 7-0 up.

Like Cobham, Chichester are captained by their number 8, Moses Kasunjja and have a young team with many pupils from Chichester schools. They do however have a 38 year old prop with a  judo background, who only took up rugby 2 years ago plus a couple of Fijian soldiers from the local barracks just to mix it up a little.

Just one place below Cobham in the league, they did not want to finish their season with a defeat so, stung by the try, Chichester launched an attack into Cobham territory which brought out the stiff defence we have seen from Cobham all season. Time and again Chichester were held up short of the line and even though Cobham lost Jamie Durward to a yellow card for a 'technical infringement' in the lineout, 14 man Cobham withstood the onslaught.

Against the run of play two penalties in quick succession from Tim Green provided Cobham with a cushion of 13-0  but it still needed some great covering tackles from Matt Johnson and Andy Alexander's 'exuberance' to create turnovers to keep Chichester at bay. It also needed stamina from both sides to finish the first half which lasted 47 minutes!

The second half started with a Cobham drive towards the Chichester line and it was an Andy Alexander textbook  'backhand offload'  that set up another maul and a Chichester penalty for handling. Tim gratefully converted into points and at 16-0 Cobham were beginning to look as if they had done enough. However as we have seen in previous games at the Memorial ground the visitors like to score at the Clubhouse end and with their best backline move of the afternoon Chichester's  number 13 ran in for try in the corner to make it 16-5. In trying to increase the lead Chichester suffered possibly the unluckiest conversion attempt of their season when the ball hit the cross bar twice before falling back on the wrong side.

With Chichester now resurgent Cobham supporters were concerned to see Captain Jack down with a head injury following a lineout clash. If we were concerned however that was nothing compared to what Dave Silver and Tom Schofield were thinking  because our back row substitute Rob Frost was already playing for the AXV against London Welsh. Plucked from the match Rob allowed Jack to undergo running repairs.

Chichester were still pushing forward and it took a brave decision from the Ref to disallow a try as Cobham managed to hold the ball up. But now we had Captain Jack back on the pitch with his head taped up and the obvious intention of finishing his final match as Captain with a win. As if to order in the best backline move of the game set up by scrum half Will and with swift passing from Dan Taylor and Disco Kevin Fisher ran through under the posts for a great try to finish Cobham's season with a flourish. Tim converted to give a score line 23-5.

Chichester still had time to respond and following a yellow card for Matt Johnson (which prompted a furious response from Tom that he only gets yellow cards from refs because he is 'too quick and too good for the refs to understand what he is doing' ) they ran in a consolation converted try 23-12.

And with that there was the final whistle of the game and the season.  Mags had received her bouquet, Billy had scored a try and Captain Jack had finished with a coveted win.

I have been challenged from the supporters on touchline  to use suggested  'words' in the match reports this season to keep everyone alert and was given 'Ubiquitous' for this match. I didn't have a clue what it meant as I watched the match but the dictionary definition is 'existing or being everywhere, esp. at the same time; omnipresent'.

I don't think we could have come up with a better adjective than that to describe Captain Jack's efforts for the last 4 Seasons.  Happy Retirement Jack.

On a damp March evening, the inaugural Tri- Sponsors touch rugby 7’s  competition  took place, with Menzies facing  co sponsors Savills and Mundays.  

Menzies had an 'England' feel about it with a combination of youth and experience whereas  Savills and Mundays both  appeared to be fielding teams with rugby players i.e they had shirts and boots etc

However what they didn't have was 'The Menziettes' a  cheerleading  section complete with pom poms and extremely loud voices.  

In the first encounter  Menzies took to the field to face Mundays, hoping to revenge a recent loss in squash. From the kick-off it was clear this Menzies team had more know how about them than the other teams had given them credit for. With solid defence from the outset Mundays were forced to play a risky game which soon paid dividends for Menzies, when on an attack on half way  line   a loose pass was thrown which was gratefully intercepted to run in Menzies first try. Cue mad celebrations from the Menziettes  The rest of the game finished without further scores, mainly because of great defence  from both sides   So Menzies had one their first ever game they had  played together. 

Celebrations were cut short, as a fiercely contested match against Savills was to follow straight away. Again Menzies defence was proving hard to break down  with touchlines being hugged to prevent wide attacks that Savills were building.  Menzies one clear chance down the right wing,  was stopped inches from the try line  So game two finished with the scores at 0-0.

Menzies took a well earned rest as Mundays and Savills played game three  which was again hard fought with no quarter given or stamp duty requested.  Savills took a while to settle, either that or they couldn't see each other. Phil Lawrence of Mundays was frequently breaking the line and the inevitable try resulted for Mundays

This victory meant that Menzies were the form team having won one and drawn one.

Menzies then had to play Mundays again, and perhaps with tiredness becoming a factor now, neither team could gain an upper hand. Menzies might   have snatched victory when  their Nepalese winger Ash made a lightning break down the left wing only to lose his bearings  under the floodlights  and touch down short of the line.  0-0 again.

The games were being switched every five minutes a) to ensure nobody expired b) to keep everyone on their toes but it did have the unfortunate bi-product that nobody could remember whether they were playing a first half or a second half

So onto another battle with Savills with Menzies knowing a victory would put them in good stead for an overall victory on the night.  Menzies Man Martin took full advantage  of the wide pitch with a stunning attack finished off with  theatrical  dive that would not have looked out of place at an Olympics 5m diving competition.  Captain Andy now organised the defence to ensure no slip ups were made, and despite the appearance of Miles Unwin Menzies saw out another victory. Four games down 2 wins 2 draws, not bad for a team with little or no experience.

So as Menzies took another well deserved break, Mundays and Savills played out a tight game, which saw Mundays snatch a deserved victory.

So with only two games to play Menzies were the team to beat. Paul Hickson making his first appearance of the night was a boost for the team as they faced yet another tight match against Mundays. Paul got involved straight away showing his ability as the creative force in midfield. However, unforced errors by Menzies, ensured that they were camped close to their own try line, but with the loud support of the Menziettes, the defence held firm and another draw was played out.  

Onto the final game for Menzies against Savills who were looking to get even after being defeated in the previous match. Straight from the kick off Menzies were forced back, as the kick sailed too long resulting in possession for Savills on the half way line.  This error was capitalised on as Savills forced their way up the pitch to within touching distance of the try line. On the last tackle a high kick was hoisted and  converted into a well taken try by Savills and their consolation victory was completed victory with a  ' Johnny Wilkinson '  style drop goal with the last kick of the game to win 8-0.  

Mundays then played out the last game against Savills and narrowly lost despite realising after the game that they had played with only 6 players to the Savills 7. whilst two Mundays players looked on!

Whilst we probably didn't find any talent for the senior section everyone had enjoyed themselves immensely and there are already plans for a repeat of the event, with hopefully more sponsor teams and supporters involved.

Special thanks to Tamara and Simon of Savills  for organising, Cobham Rugby club for the facilities, Vanilla Bean for refreshments and last but not least the Menziettes whose support ensured there was never a dull moment.

Playing for your country is arguably the pinnacle of anyone's sporting career; to achieve such an opportunity at the age of 16 is a strong indicator of potential.

Huge congratulations from all at Cobham to Jordan Burns (Epsom College & Surrey) who has been chosen within a squad of 26 for England U16 in the forthcoming Four Nations Tournament in Rome.

The England A squad also includes Cobham U16 players Rory Anderson (Eton College & Surrey) and Tom Hilton Stevens (RGS Guildford & Surrey) who will play in the Wellington International Festival (against France A, Scotland and Belgium).

Behind every great player there is a great team of coaches - the coaching team of Tim Yates, Tom Doran and Taff Edwards deserve recognition for their efforts and encouragement.

Update: Click here for the England U16 teams against Combined Acadamies and against Northampton Academy. Alex Stout (Cobham U17, RGS Guildford and Surrey) is playing for the Combined Academies.

Cobham overcame Thanet Wanderers 30-26 in a close game at Fairmile Lane. Click here for match report.

Lee Raikes and Tim Green scored a try apiece plus a penalty try in the victory with Tim also kicking 3 conversions and 3 penalties.

There were also wins for all Cobham teams this weekend with the A XV beating Wimbledon 22-20, the 3rd XV beating Battersea Ironside 74-0 and the All Stars beating Haslemere 7-0.

1st XV

1 tristan lee
2 josh brown (colin cowan)
3 lee raikes
4 jamie durward (andy alexander)
5 billy davison
6 ben creed
7 matt johnson
8 jack davison (captain)
9 spencer franks
10 dan taylor
11 tim green
12 piers gregory
13 kevin fisher
14 chris moreton
15 andy flower

16 andy alexander
17 colin cowan
18 aeren young

In wet and horrible conditions a good crowd came to watch a tight fought match with Cobham playing some of their best rugby of the season despite the conditions.

Cobham spent the 1st half camped in Wimbledon's half, The Cobham pack dominating at scrum time lead by Andy Alexander and Tristan Lee. To Wimbledon's credit their defence keeping Cobham at bay. Cobham got an early penalty and Dan Taylor chose to kick at goal, but with the conditions against him the kick went wide of the posts.
 
It wasn't until the last 15 minutes of the 1st half that Cobham came away with 2 well deserved tries. The 1st from a catch and drive lead by Billy Davison and Jamie Durward with Alex Cook in his first match back from injury scoring in the corner. The 2nd from a scrum in the Wimbledon 22, Jack Davsion picking and feeding wing Chris Moreton to score in the other corner. The first half ending 10-0 to Cobham.

The 2nd half had Wimbledon kicking off long and putting pressure on the Cobham defence and forced a penalty to cut the lead 10-3 to Cobham.

Cobham made a number of ventures into Wimbledon's half with some excellent hands and lines of running despite the conditions, but Wimbledon kept Cobham out.
 
Will Avery made his return off the bench making an instant impact with a try saving tackle from a sharp game line break by Wimbledon and then Will him self making a break from Cobham's own line to put Kevin Fisher into space but the Wimbledon defence held firm. 

Cobham repelled wave after wave of Wimbledon attack with Wimbledon coming close to scoring on a number of occasions but Cobham's forwards laid the platform for the defence with a number of outstanding tackles and hits being put in by the entire team.
 
Cobham played with a confidence in attack and defence that has not been seen for a while, which will hopefully be taken into the final league and cup matches of the season.
 
Final Score: Cobham 10 Wimbledon 3
 
Team 
 
1 Tristan Lee
2 Alex Cook
3 Andy Alexander
4 Jamie Durward
5 Billy Davison
6 Josh Brown
7 Ben Creed
8 Jack Davison (Captain)
9 Patrick Disley-May (Will Avery)
10 Dan Taylor
11 Andy Flower
12 Piers Gregory
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Chris Moreton
15 Nick Sutton
 
16 Lee Raikes
17 Aeren Young
18 Will Avery
 
Alex Cook 1 Try
Chris Moreton 1 Try
 
 
Next match Saturday 27th March Cobham v Thanet Wanderers 3pm kick off all support welcome.

Report by Tom Schofield

Mags Davison will be moving onto an exciting new business venture when her contract comes to an end in April. 

It is great to take a moment to remember just what a significant journey we have travelled over the last two years as we have moved into our brand new clubhouse,  and Mags has underpinned all endeavours often going well above and beyond the call of duty.

It is with immense pride that I recall our first capacity lunch when we opened our doors on the first Saturday. Since then we have continued to make constant strides forward with real professionalism and I know that all members of the CSA and sections will want me to sincerely thank Mags for her incredible hard work and commitment over the last couple of years.

There will obviously be plenty of time for us all to mark this occasion and wish Mags every success for the future, as she moves back into being involved with the club as a “mini mum” and social member ! 

The CSA Committee are just starting to think about the most appropriate structure to take us forward and we are fully engaging with all the sporting section heads for input, to make sure that we have the right  team and offering for all section and members needs.

I will communicate further as soon as we have more details, but I also commit that any positions that we do decide to fill will be advertised openly.

With best wishes

Andy Harburn

CSA Chairman

Cobham lost 17-0 to Old Elthamians on Saturday, February 27th, as a number of enforced changes resulted in the 1sts fielding a less experienced team than usual.

On the plus side three players made their full debuts at the weekend, Aeren Young, Tom Murdoch and Dan Fitzpatrick. 
 
Cobham are still 3rd in the League with an away trip to Sidcup next weekend.
 
Team
 
1 Andy Alexander
2 Aeren Young
3 Lee Raikes
4 Tristan Lee
5 Henry Mounsey
6 Josh Brown
7 Ben Creed
8 Jack Davison (Captain)
9 Patrick Disley-May
10 Tom Murdoch
11 Adam Hanline
12 Chris Moreton
13 Kevin fisher
14 Dan Fitzpatrick
15 Martin Green
 
16 Harry Cairns
17 Jamie Durward
18 Billy Davison

The 1sts went down 35-5 to Sidcup on a day when a brace of yellow cards cost Cobham dear with our try coming from Jack Davison.
 
In other results the Axv beat 34 Guildford 34-7 and the All Stars lost 17-7 to Harlequin Amateurs.
 
1st XV 
 
1 Tristan Lee
2 Josh Brown
3 Andy Alexander
4 Jamie Durward
5 Billy Davison
6 Benc Creed
7 Matt Johnson
8 Jack Davison (Captain)
9 Patrick Disley-May
10 Piers Gregory
11 Tim Green
12 David MacCallum (Chris Moreton)
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Henry Mounsey (Nick Sutton)
15 Andy Flower
 
16 Lee Raikes
17 Chris Moreton
18 Nick Sutton

In Saturday's home tie against League Leaders Gravesend, Cobham 1stxv lost to 6-26 but still maintain their third place in the league. Match report here

Team sheet: 
1 Andy Alexander
2 Heinrich Du Plessis
3 Paddy Seymour
4 Tristan Lee
5 Ollie Saddler
6 Alex Cook
7 Matt Johnson
8 Jack Davison (Captain)
9 Dan Taylor
10 David MacCallum
11 Tim Green
12 Chris Moreton
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Nick Sutton
15 Andy Flower
 
16 Josh Brown
17 Henry Mounsey
18 Spencer Franks
 
Tim Green x2 penalties

Cobham Beat Tunbridge Wells 23-8 in the London South Division One clash on Saturday, February 13th.

There were tries for Andy Alexander, Paddy Seymour, Jack Davison, Adam Hanline and a David MacCallum penalty in the win.

It leaves Cobham third in the division, three points behind 2nd place Dover and six from leaders Gravesend - who Cobham play at Fairmile Lane this Saturday, Feb 20th. For match report click here

1st XV

1 ANDY ALEXANDER
2 ALEX COOK
3 PADDY SEYMOUR
4 TRISTAN LEE
5 OLLIE SADDLER
6 MATT JOHNSON
7 HENRY MOUNSEY
8 JACK DAVISON
9 DAN TAYLOR
10 DAVID MACCALLUM
11 NICK SUTTON
12 CHRIS MORETON
13 KEVIN FISHER
14 ADAM HANLINE
15 ANDY FLOWER

16 LEE RAIKES
17 BEN CREED
18 JOSH BROWN

Cobham won the battle of the 'aitches' beating neighbours Chobham 13-7 at Fairmile Lane on Saturday, February 7th.

The 1sts won courtesy of a penalty try plus David MacCallum's 2 Penalties and 1 Conversion.
 
1st XV
 
1 Tristan Lee
2 Heinrich Du Plessis
3 Paddy Seymour
4 Rob Frost
5 Billy Davison
6 Ben Creed
7 Adie Saunderson
8 Jack Davison (Captain)
9 Patrick Disley-May
10 Dan Taylor
11 Nick Sutton
12 David MacCallum
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Piers Gregory
15 Andy Flower
 
16 Harry Cairns
17 Matt Johnson
18 Tim Green

Wins for 1st XV, A XV  and 3rd XV all at home on Saturday. A XV won 35-21 against Old Wimbledonians.
 
1stxv won 22-8 and a match report is here.
 
1 Lee Raikes
2 Heinrich Du Plessis
3 Paddy Seymour
4 Jamie Durward
5 Billy Davison
6 Ben Creed
7 Adie Saunderson
8 Jack Davison (Captain)
9 Patrick Disley May
10 Dan Taylor
11 Tim Green
12 David MacCallum
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Nick Sutton
15 Andy Fower
 
16 Colin Cowan
17 Chris Moreton
18 Piers Gregory
 
 
Lee Raikes 1 Try
Dan Taylor 1 Try
David MacCallum 1 Try
Nick Sutton 1 Try
 
Tim Green 1 Conversion
 
Next Saturday at Home
1stxv v Chobham 
Axv v Barnes

The 1sts were defeated at Dover 24-9 on Saturday, Tim Green scored with 3 penalties for Cobham. Cobham remain 3rd in the League behind Dover and Gravesend. For match report from Paul Hickson click here.

In other results the A XV beat Richmond 26-10, 3rd XV beat Old Walcountians 17-3, and the All Stars beat Old Cranleighans 10-0.
 
1st XV squad
 
1 Andy Alexander
2 dupie
3 Richard Nunn
4 Tristan Lee
5 Billy Davison
6 Rob Frost
7 Ben Creed
8 Jack Davison (Captain)
9 Patrick Disley-May
10 David MacCallum
11 Tim Green
12 Chris Moreton
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Adam Hanline
15 Nick Sutton
 
16 Josh Brown
17 Jamie Durward
18 Henry Mounsey
 

Cobham got the New Year off to a great start, but Aylesford ran Cobham close in the 22-20 victory for the 1sts.

Tim Green scored two tries plus a penalty and two conversions with Heinrich Du Plessis also adding a try in the win.

In other games the All Stars were beaten by an experienced Old Paulines team in a close finish at Fairmile Lane.

1sts Squad:
 
1 Tristan Lee
2 Heinrich Du Plessis
3 Paddy Seymour
4 Jamie Durward 
5 Billy Davison (Captain)
6 Josh Brown
7 Ben Creed
8 Alex Cook
9 Patrick Disley-May
10 Dan Taylor
11 Tim Green
12 David MacCallum
13 Chris Moreton
14 Adam Hanline
15 Nick Sutton
 
16 Colin Cowan
17 Lee Raikes
18 Henry Mounsey

Cobham lost to Old Colfeians with the last kick of the match.
 
For Cobham there were trys from Debutant Adan Hanline and Kevin Fisher.
 
Tim Green kick 2 conversions and 2 penalties
 
1 Andy Alexander
2 Heinrich Du Plessis
3 Richard Nunn
4 Tristan Lee
5 Billy Davison
6 Alex Cook
7 Matt Johnson
8 Jack Davison
9 Patrick Disley-May
10 Arran Cowell
11 Tim Green
12 James Lowe
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Adam Hanline
15 Andy Flower
 
16 Colin Cowan
17 Ben Creed
18 Chris Moreton
 
AXV won 34-10 against Wimbledon

I have the pleasure of being Chairman of Cobham Rugby Club, being not only heavily involved in the Seniors, but also a Dad of a boy who just passed on from the energetic Minis to the slightly more demanding Youth style of rugby. I appreciate many of you won’t know me and I hope to get around to meet as many parents and players as possible.

Firstly, I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and thank in particular all the volunteers, who coach, manage, ref, cook, co-ordinate, clear litter, run on with water bottles and all the other things that make this such a wonderful vibrant amateur community club.

We have already seen 3 wonderfully successful Mini Tournaments for the A, B and C squads both on and off the pitch and the inaugural Braemar Cup at under 12, where 8 county champions are invited to compete at Fairmile Lane from as far afield as Macclesfield and Banbury.

The Youth teams are just getting into their league programmes and the Senior XV are third  in London One South  - a heart felt congratulations to all the organisers and players for all they have achieved in the first part of the season.

May I make a further point on the way we run the club. The Rugby Club committee feel it appropriate to make clear to all club members that we don’t wish to cross the divide and become a ”professional” rugby club where we pay players. I accept we do pay a few people because it is commercially sensible to do so within the clubhouse, but as a rugby club community we rely heavily on people volunteering to help.

I am really keen that we continue in this vein right across the club. There are great examples of people giving their time freely and generously to make the club the success that it is. It is a great reflection on the club that  the “Value the Volunteer“ awards at the  Summer Ball are so hotly contested and highly sought after.

A plea from me – please do your bit for club. Volunteer when asked [or even when not] to play your part-manning the sausages /bacon butty BBQ on a  Sunday, running a social event for your team or age group , or just helping clear up in the bar. It doesn’t take much effort but it really does help.

To those who already do volunteer, my heartfelt thanks. You are a really important part of the club. And to those of you yet to have that rewarding experience, do stick your hand up and do your bit.

Have a fantastic festive break and come back refreshed for the challenges of the rest of the season

Tony Balkwill

Club Chairman

Two Cobham Players have made their debut for England .. well almost!

Cobham 1st team 2nd Rows Jamie Durward and Mark Lockwood were extras for an England TV advert.

Mark and Jamie spent a day being filmed last week at Twickenham.

They even body doubled for James Haskell and England Captain Steve Borthwick!

 Here are a few pictures from the day.

The 1sts lost 19-15 away at Thanet Wanderers on Saturday, December 5th.

Cobham scored through Heinrich Du Plessis and a Penalty Try and Tim Green kicked a Conversion and Penalty.

Next Sunday Cobham are again on the road against Old Colfeians.

In other results the 3rd XV won at Warlingham.
 
1st XV team:
 
1 Andy Alexander
2 Colin Colin Cowan
3 Paddy Seymour (Captain)
4 Henry Mounsey
5 Jamie Durward
6 Heinrich Du Plessis
7 Josh Brown
8 Alex Cook
9 Martin Green
10 Arran Cowell
11 Tim Green
12 James Lowe
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Chris Moreton
15 Andy Flower
 
16 Paul Mayer
17 Lee Raikes
18 Dave Flower

The inaugural Braemar Cup for the Under 12s, testing the 'champions of counties' against each other, was shared by Macclesfield and Banbury after drawing the final.

Earlier Cobham had drawn with Macclesfield in the semi-final but lost out on the chance of reaching the final becuase of their opponents superior league results.

The Braemar Club at Cobham provides a focal point for players of previous eras and is named after a building at Surbiton County Grammar School through which all new pupils passed to begin their school lives.

Full Results

Group A
Cobham 17 v Upminster 0
Tonbridge Juddians 0 v Stroud 12
Cobham 5 v Stroud 0
Tonbridge Juddians 12 v Upminster 0
Cobham 0 v Tonbridge Juddians 7
Stroud 14 v Upminster 7

Group B
Banbury 7 v Teddington 0
Rosslyn Park 0 v Macclesfield 0
Banbury 17 v Rosslyn Park 0
Macclesfield 21 v Teddington 0
Banbury 7 v Macclesfield 7
Rosslyn Park 5 v Teddington 0

Plate Semi 1
Tonbridge Juddians 20 v Teddington 0

Plate Semi 2
Upminster 0 v Rosslyn Park 7

Cup Semi 1
Cobham 0 v Macclesfield 0 (Macclesfield as per competition rules)

Cup Semi 2 
Stroud 0 v Banbury 21

Plate Final
Tonbridge Juddians 10 v Rosslyn Park 5

Cup Final
Macclesfield 0 v Banbury 0 (Joint Winners as per competition rules)

The Autumn Internationals are upon us. Several Cobham Youth players have been playing for the Surrey and Berkshire during the half term period in their own Autumn series. 

Starting with the Under 16s. Congratulations to Ben Edwards, Tom Hilton-Stevens, George Taylor, Rory Anderson, Richard Hutton and Jordan Burns who played against Middlesex ( Surrey won 31-21) and on Sunday against Hampshire (Surrey won 17-15 in a very close game). Jordon Burns scored in both games and so well done to him. Good luck in the upcoming games against Sussex and Kent (at Imber Court). 

This age group is coached by former first team captain Tim Yates, Taff Edwards and Tom Doran and so well done to them. It is great to see all your hard work pay off. 

At Under 18 level we have also had strong representation with Morgan Fletcher (current Cobham U18s) Captaining Surrey against Sussex. He was well supported by Jack Clifford, Tom Harty and Tom Bliss(current Cobham U17s) who played (and won all three) against  Sussex, Kent and Middlesex. Tom Harty also played for the Irish Exiles against the Welsh Exiles last Sunday with the Irish winning 34-7. Just to complete the County picture Kyle Ross and Maddie Hughes have been playing for Berkshire in their series of games against Gloucestershire, Cornwall and Bucks. 

Finally last Friday several parents and lads went to Bisham Abbey to watch Alex Stout and Elliot Markham(Under 17s) play for London Academies (Wasps, Saracens, London Irish, Quins) against England Under 18s. In a closely fought game the Academies stretched England all the way before going down 17-7. Both Elliot and Alex contributed well to the Academy’s performance. Well done guys. 

For all the above boys there is a chance of Regional Selection and so I will keep club members posted. 

Steve Heard

Youth Chairman 

Cobham beat Wimbledon 21-11 on Saturday November 28th to cement their position of 2nd in the League.

Alex Cook and Nick Sutton both scored tries and Tim Green kicked a conversion and three Penalties in the win.

For the match report click here.
 
In other results, the AXV won 26-0 away at Guildford and the 3rdXV won at home against Old Suttonians. 
 
1st XV Squad

1 Andy Alexander
2 Colin Cowan
3 Richard Nunn
4 Tristan Lee
5 Billy Davison
6 Alex Cook
7 Matt Johnson
8 Jack Davison (Captain)
9 Spencer Franks
10 Arran Cowell
11 Tim Green
12 James Lowe
13 Nick Sutton
14 Chris Moreton
15 Andy Flower
 
16 Josh Brown
17 Jamie Durward
18 Patrick Disley-May
 

Cobham went 2nd in the league following a 27-5 victory at Maidstone and Chichester losing 13-3 at Tunbridge Wells.

There were tries for Spencer Franks, Rob Smedley, Jack Davison, Matt Johnson and David MacCallum with Tim Green kicking one conversion.

With Chichester slipping up at Tunbridge Wells, Cobham move to second in the league.

For the Match report click here.

There is no game for the 1sts next Saturday (or training this week)

All other planned Senior games fell victim to the weather.

1sts Squad

1 Richard Nunn
2 Heinrich Du Plessis
3 Paddy Seymour
4 Tristan Lee
5 Billy Davison
6 Matt Johnson (Jamie Durward)
7 Josh Brown (Colin Cowan)
8 Jack Davison (Captain)
9 Spencer Franks
10 Arran Cowell
11 Nick Sutton
12 David MacCallum
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Rob Smedley
15 Andy Flower (Tim Green)
 
16 Colin Cowan 
17 Jamie Durward
18 Tim Green

Cobham teams enjoyed a good day at the C Festival earning honours in all age groups.

Festival Results

• U7

Plate Final Winner: Cobham

Bowl Final Winner: Chobham & Ealing

Cup Runner Up: Richmond

Cup Winner: Reeds

• U9

Plate Final Winner: Teddington

Bowl Final Winner: Cobham (pictured)

Cup Runner Up: Chobham

Cup Winner: Reeds

• U10

Plate Final Winner: Reeds

Bowl Final Winner: Joint winners - Cobham and Chobham

Cup Runner Up: Teddington

Cup Winner: Guernsey

• U11

Plate Final Winner: Ealing

Bowl Final Winner: Cobham

Cup Runner Up: Teddington

Cup Winner: Guildford

• U12

Plate Final Winner: Wimbledon

Bowl Final Winner: Sutton & Epsom

Cup Winner: Cobham

nb  the U8 competition had to be cancelled due to waterlogged pitches

Once again we are grateful to our main Mini sponsor, Savills plus this season's Festival Sponsors; Touraid, Prime Oak, Pafilia, Danes Hill School, Guy Salmon Thames Ditton and Mini Cooper Cobham.

What a party - Saturday 31st October's Spooktacula party at the club saw all sorts. Make your own mind up who was enjoying themselves...

After thought:

 
A cabbie picks up a Nun.

She gets into the cab, and notices that the VERY handsome cab driver won't stop staring at her.

She asks him why he is staring.

He replies: 'I have a question to ask you but I don't want to offend you.'

She answers, 'My son, you cannot offend me. When you're as old as I am and have been a nun as long as I have, you get a chance to see and hear just about everything. I'm sure that there's nothing you could say or ask that I would find offensive.'

'Well, I've always had a fantasy to have a nun kiss me.'

She responds, 'Well, let's see what we can do about that: 1, you have to be single and 2, you must be Catholic.'

The cab driver is very excited and says, 'Yes, I'm single and Catholic!'

'OK' the nun says. 'Pull into the next alley.'

The nun fulfills his fantasy, with a kiss that would make a hooker blush.

But when they get back on the road, the cab driver starts crying.

'My dear child,' says the nun, 'why are you crying?'

'Forgive me but I've sinned. I lied and I must confess, I'm married and I'm Jewish.'

The nun says, 'That's OK. My name is Kevin and I'm going to a Halloween party.'

Cobham beat table toppers Gravesend in Kent 25-15 scoring four times in a tough game on Saturday, October 31st.

Rob Smedley, Nick Sutton, Matt Johnson and Heinrich Du Plessis all scored tries and Arran Cowell kicked a Conversion and Penalty in the win, despite also having two men yellow carded in the 2nd half.

To read a report from a Gravesend perspective click here.

To read an eloquent and balanced Cobham Rugby President's Report click here.

To read a very good report from a Cobham Sponsor's perspective click here

To read an amusing and well scribed match report from the Player's perspective click here.

Some weeks we don't get any and then like buses!

In other games the AXV won 52-5 away at Camberley and there was also a win for the 3rds.

• 1st XV Line-Up

1 Andy Alexander
2 Heinrich Du Plessis
3 Paddy Seymour
4 Tristan Lee
5 Billy Davison
6 Alex Cook
7 Matt Johnson
8 Jack Davison
9 Spencer Franks
10 Arran Cowell
11 Nick Sutton
12 Piers Gregory
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Rob Smedley
15 Andy Flower
 
16 Tom Webb
17 Josh Brown
18 James Lowe

At the recent AGM on Tuesday 8th September 2009, a number of club members were given the honour of being appointed Vice President of Cobham Rugby in recognition of their service over the past years.

Tony Balkwill was also appointed Chairman of the Rugby Club taking over from Ian Thomas after years of sterling work.

Life Vice Presidents

David Small

Lionel Frewin

David Williams

Stuart Davies

Vice Presidents

Tony Balkwill

Dave Barrett

Roy Bliss

Fran Bond

Mick Brown

Bob Bruce

Paul Cragg

Chris Dean

Spencer Franks

Paul Hickson

Jason Hoad

Tony Hobson

Paul Hubbard

Bob Jones-Davies

Matt Lunn

Chris Melton

Jon Moxon

Emma Murphy

Rory Murphy

Jon Roberts

Alan Samuels

Tom Schofield

Peter Taylor

Ian Thomas

Suzanne Whealing

Cobham's first XV beat Sidcup at The Old Surbitonians' Memorial Ground on Saturday 7th November by 22 - 7. With Colchester going down against Dover, Cobham are now joint second in the League.

Cobham scored through Nick Sutton, Rob Smedley and Matt Johnson with Arran Cowell making 2 Conversions and 1 Penalty kick.
 
In other games the AXV beat Sutton and Epsom 12-3 but the 3rd XV and All Stars lost to Teddington and London Irish respectively.

1sts line-up:

1 Andy Alexander
2 Heinrich Du Plessis
3 Paddy Seymour
4 Tristan Lee
5 Ollie Sadder
6 Alex Cook
7 Matt Johnson
8 Jack Davison (Captain)
9 Spencer Franks
10 Arran Cowell
11 Nick Sutton
12 David MacCallum
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Rob Smedley
15 Andy Flower
 
16 Angus Darroch-Warren
17 Josh Brown
18 Chris Moreton

Results for Saturday 24th October

Cobham 1st XV won 43-17 v Tunbridge Wells at home which places them in 3rd spot in the league. Click here for match report

In other games A XV lost 16-17 v Old Wimbledonians, 3rd xv won 50-5 v Bec Old Boys and Cobham Allstars won v Twickenham

At the B home festivals, Cobham won, or were joint winners, in four of the age groups and were runner up in another!

Full results from Sunday 11 October:

U7 Age Group

Plate  Winner: Guildford

Bowl Winner: Blackheath

Cup Runner Up: Rosslyn Park

U8 Age Group

Plate  Winner: Sutton & Epsom

Bowl Winner: Effingham & Rosslyn Park (Joint winners)

Cup Runner Up: Teddington

Cup Winner: Reeds

U9 Age Group

Plate  Winner: Sutton & Epsom

Bowl Winner: Reeds

Cup Winner: Battersea

U10 Age Group

Plate  Winner:  Reeds

Bowl Winner:  Battersea

U11 Age Group

Plate  Winner: Battersea

Bowl Winner: Farnham

U12 Age Group

Plate  Winner: Battersea

Bowl Winner: Effingham

Cup Runner Up: Guildford

Cobham won 14-11 away at Beckenham to stay in contention at the top of London South Division 1, fourth and four points behind leaders Gravesend.  Simon Ackroyd and Arran Cowell scored a try apiece and Tim Green kicked both conversions in the victory.

Click here for the match report.

In other games the AXV lost 30-21 away at Richmond, the 3rd XV won 31-17 away at Old Walcountians and the All Stars were beaten at Cranleigh.
 
 1st XV Line UP:
1 Andy Alexander
2 Heinrich Du Plessis
3 Paddy Seymour
4 Tristan Lee
5 Tom Webb
6 Josh Brown
7 Simon Ackroyd
8 Jack Davison
9 Patrick Disley-May
10 Arran Cowell
11 Tim Green
12 James Lowe
13 Piers Gregory
14 Rob Smedley
15 Andy Flower
 
16 Lee Raikes
17 James Green
18 Dan Henderson

There was success for Cobham Mini Rugby at the first of three Festivals at Cobham this Autumn.

A Festival results

Building on solid foundations at the start of the day, the U9 boys got better as each game passed, culminating in a thrilling win in a hard fought Cup final against Brighton.

The U11s continued their great start to the season by winning in style scoring 9 tries and conceding none in the journey to the final, beating Battersea Ironsides in the deciding game.

U7
Plate Final Winner: Chobham
Bowl Final Winner: Cobham
Cup Final Winner: Joint-winners Brighton and Camberley
 
U8
Plate Final Winner: Cobham
Shield Final Winner: Southend
Bowl Final Winner: Battersea Ironsides
Cup Runners Up: Effingham
Cup Winners: Teddington
 
U9
Plate Final Winner: Maidenhead
Bowl Final Winner: Chobham
Cup Runners Up: Brighton
Cup Winners: Cobham
 
U10
Plate Final Winner: Battersea Ironsides
Bowl Final Winner: Cobham
Cup Runners Up: Chobham
Cup Winners: Brighton
 
U11
Plate Final Winner: Camberley 
Bowl Final Winner: Chobham
Cup Runners Up: Battersea Ironsides
Cup Winners: Cobham
 
U12
Plate Final Winner: Battersea Ironsides
Bowl Final Winner: Cobham
Cup Runners Up: Macclesfield
Cup Winners: Effingham

Cobham were beaten by Dover 17-21 in a tight game at Fairmile Lane, Saturday October 10th.

Jack Davison, Nick Sutton and Rob Smedley all scored tries for the 1sts with Arran Cowell kicking one conversion.

But despite great pressure from Cobham in the last few minutes, where an attacking scrum nearly paid dividends,  Dover held out for a win that leaves Cobham in fourth position in the London South Division 1 league table.

The 1sts travel to Beckenham next Saturday, October 17th.

It was a rare occasion that all three senior teams were playing at 3pm in Fairmile Lane which meant full use of the CSA facilities.

This drew a big crowd to The Club and spectators were rewarded with a sunny autumn afternoon and some fine rugby.

The AXV played Old Reigatian and in a tough Surrey Premier league contest came out winners.

This was a particularly good win against strong opponents and a bounce back from their previous league loss to London Welsh.

The AXV travel to local rivals Richmond next Saturday.

However an understrength 3rd XV, victim of the flu bug, were beaten by Surrey rivals Dorking in the other 3pm game of the day.

But having won their first game of the season against Old Paulines the 3rds remain well placed in the Surrey Combination 2nd Division.

The 3rds next league game is against Old Walcountians next Saturday.

Cobham moved to third in the League on Saturday following a 23-15 victory at Aylesford.

Simon Ackroyd and Jack Davison got a try each and Arran Cowell kicked both Conversions and three Penalties. Click here for match report
 
In other games, the AXV beat Esher 27-3, the 3rds lost to Battersea Ironside but the All Stars beat Wimbledon.

1sts line-up:

1 Andy Alexander
2 Heinrich Du Plessis
3 Richard Nunn
4 Jamie Durward
5 Billy Davison
6 Alex Cook
7 Simon Ackroyd
8 Jack Davison
9 Will Avery
10 Arran Cowell
11 Tim Green
12 Rob Smedley
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Patrick Disley-May
15 Nick Sutton
 
16 Paddy Seymour
17 Matt Johnson
18 Dan Fitzpatrick
 

 
Next Saturday 10th October
 
1st XV v Dover
AXV v Old Reigatians
3rd XV v Dorking

All Home 3pm Kick Off

Cobham ran in 6 tries to beat Old Elthamians 45-24 on Saturday and move to fourth in London 1 South.

There were two tries for Simon Ackroyd and a try apiece for Richard Nunn, Jack Davison, Tim Green and Rob Smedley.
 
Arran Cowell kicked three Penalties and one Conversion with Tim Green also kicking two conversions and former Cobham youth player Josh Brown came off the bench to make his league debut.

For match report click here.

In other results, the AXV went down 44-7 at London Welsh, there was a win for our Thirds at Old Paulines and the All Stars lost narrowly to Old Oundelian 2nds in a friendly 12-7.

1sts Line Up:

1 Andy Alexander
2 Heinrich Du Plessis
3 Richard Nunn
4 Ollie Saddler
5 Billy Davison
6 Alex Cook
7 Simon Ackroyd
8 Jack Davison (Captain)
9 Will Avery
10 Arran Cowell
11 Tim Green
12 David MacCallum
13 Kevin Fisher
14 Rob Smedley
15 Nick Sutton
 
16 Paddy Seymour
17 Josh Brown
18 Patrick Disley-May

Cobham beat local rivals Chobham 26-17 on Saturday in an impressive display considering that no less than eight first teamers were unavailable for the match.

Nick Sutton and Simon Ackroyd scored a try each and Arran Cowell was on good form with the boot making both conversions and scoring four penalties.

The result puts Cobham fifth in the London South 1 League table. The next game, on Sept 26th at Fairmile Lane, is versus Old Elthamians who are currently third, ahead of Cobham on points difference.

For the excellent match report click here.

In other games, the Cobham AXV beat London Media 50-15.
 
1st XV:  
 
1 Richard Nunn
2 Heinrich Du Plessis
3 Andy Alexander
4 Tristan Lee
5 Ollie Saddler
6 Alex Cook
7 Simon Ackroyd
8 Matt Johnson (Captain)
9 Will Avery
10 Arran Cowell
11 Rob Smedley
12 James Lowe
12 Rowan Watkins
14 Patrick Disley-May
15 Nick Sutton
 
16 Angus Darroch-Warren
17 Josh Brown
18 Chris Moreton

Former Cobham Youth and Epsom College player, George Lowe, fresh from his exploits with England U20 side, started for Harlequins against Leicester last Saturday, 13th Sept 2009. As a prolific try scorer he almost scored on debut - twice - in a close encounter.

Well done George - we're all following your burgeoning career with interest.

Cobham 1sts got their season off to a winning start at home to Old Colfeians today winning 25-0.

The 1sts ran in four tries and defended stoutly despite losing three men to yellow cards throughout the game, and at one point fielding just 13 players.

Match report click here

Scorers: Tim Green 1 Try, 1 Converstion & 1 Penalty; Rob Smedley 2 Tries, Matt Johnson 1 Try.

Team: 15 Nick Sutton, 14 Rob Smedley, 13 Kevin Fisher, 12 David MaCallum, 11 Tim Green, 10 Arran Cowell, 9 Will Avery, 8 Jack Davison (Captain), 7 Matt Johnson, 6 Neil Smitherman, 5 Billy Davison, 4 Ollie Saddler, 3 Paddy Seymour, 2 Heinrich Du Plessis, 1 Will Mealin. Subs:  16 Lee Raikes, 17 Alex Cook & 18 Patrick Disley May.

There was also a win for the AXV away at Guildford 24-15.

From just a quick glance at the (long) list of law changes being introduced effective 1^st August 2009, one would be forgiven from thinking the IRB has had a brain storm.

However, there is nothing new in the changes, the objective of the changes is to consolidate into ‘permanent’ law the approved Experimental Law Variations (ELVs) and various recent law rulings into the Laws.

• A more detailed summary of the IRB law changes summarised below can be found at the following link:

• http://www.irb.com/mm/document/lawsregs/0/090430sglaexplanatory_7684.pdf

• The full actual laws can be found at:

• http://www.irb.com/lawregulations/laws/index.html

To brush up on the Mini & Youth rules the RFU Continuum is key:

• Mini / Midi laws

• Youth Rugby variations

For Seniors, the table below is a précis of the law changes. It highlights the changes for information but should not be used as a definitive statement on the law changes (it covers in 2 pages what the IRB summarises in 12 pages):

Phil Bond

Youth & Mini Dad and Society Ref

Nobody seems terribly sure what happened to the "barbeque summer" we were promised, but with the August bank holiday past and gone, the weather has turned decidedly autumnal; and with it the focus returns to the Rugby field, and the season to come.

For those of you with short memories, we finished last season a very creditable 3^rd, behind Dorking and deserved League winners Basingstoke. Dorking then went onto beat Staines in the play off, to claim the extra promotion slot, whilst a wholesale league reorganisation by the RFU meant that no sides were relegated.

This reorganisation means we start next season in London One South – which is the same level (Level 6) as last year, with last years London One undergoing name change to the somewhat long-winded National Three London and the South East Division.

As a consequence of the scrapping of the National Cup competitions at our level, the numbers in all the regional leagues have been increased. This might not seem of any great significance immediately; but the number of league fixtures for us has correspondingly increased from 22 to 26 – which, considering two seasons ago we played only 18 league matches, represents a fairly dramatic rise.

With 11 league matches in a row, commencing with the season opener against Chichester this Saturday, and indeed only one blank Saturday between now and Christmas; it is a relentlessly tough programme for all clubs. Certainly clubs with smaller playing squads will find it very demanding as the season progresses. Happily, pre-season has gone fairly well, and despite losing a some of last seasons squad through retirement and relocation, the numbers at training have been encouraging.

The addition of a new backs coach, Lorcan O'Brien, to the existing coaching team of Bill Davison, Paddy Seymour & Martin Green, is another progressive step; and with the effervescent Dave Silver contributing so much more than his role as Physio, preparations for the season have gone well. The progression of some of last season's U18's into the senior squad is also a welcome addition.

What can we expect from the rest of the league?

Last years league programme threw up plenty of surprises. Overall it was a very even and keenly contested schedule, and there were very few fixtures anywhere in the league which could be regarded as “gimmes”, at any stage. It is hard to envisage this season being much different. We have difficult trips to Thanet and Dover a few weeks either side of Xmas – will anyone there ever forget the away match at Dover last season?

It will be interesting to welcome newcomers Chichester & Old Elthamians – neither of which we have had the pleasure of playing before, and we meet both in the first month. They, and fellow promoted clubs Aylesford Bulls and Wimbledon , will no doubt be keen to make an early impression at this level; and history over recent seasons suggests that the promoted clubs rarely prove to be out of their depth. With regard to last year's opposition, every club had their moments; and it is very hard to single out any one side as “The Side To Beat”. Perhaps we might have a better perception of this a month down the line - certainly we will have to play extremely well if we are to recapture anything like last season's success; and it is important that we muster all the support we can raise; on the pitch, on the sidelines, and in the bar !

With a few new young players under the guidance of the coaching team, hopefully the “A”s and 3rds will continue to make progress from the good work done last season; and no doubt once the grounds soften up a bit, the All Stars too can find their boots, win a few games, and just as importantly, keep Bob and his team busy at the bar!

Elsewhere, it was great to see that one of our youth players, Joe Trayfoot, continue his progress at senior level; being named in the England U20's squad for this season. It was also good to see Duncan Campbell at the club a couple of weeks ago, in good spirits and having made great progress.

Ian Johnson

Club President

The 1sts were defeated in the season's opener at Chichester on Saturday 10-8.

Arran Cowell put points on the board with a penalty in the 1st half and Nick Sutton scored a try in the 2nd half for Cobham where we fielded three new players; Mike Garside, Colin Cowan and Patrick Disley-May (who was a youth player last year)

Line-up:  1 Lee Raikes, 2 Heinrich Du Plessis, 3 Will Mealin, 4 Ollie Saddler, 5 Billy Davsion, 6 Tristan Lee, 7 Jack Davsion (Captain), 8 Neil Smitherman, 9 Dan Taylor, 10 Piers Gregory, 11 Nick Sutton, 12 David MacCallum, 13 Kevin Fisher, 14 Mike Garside, 15 Arran Cowell.  16 Colin Cowan, 17 Rob Smedley, 18 Patrick Disley-May.

In other games the AXV beat Rosslyn Park 24-12.

The Value the Volunteer 2009 Awards were announced at the Summer Salsa Ball on Saturday, June 20th.

• President’s Award – Roy Bliss
• Senior Section Award – Ian Thomas
• Youth Section Award – Suzanne Whealing
• Mini Section Award – Steve Robinson
• Club Member Award – Matt Westland

On Sunday 9 November, the final event of the Cobham Rugby Club Mini Festival took place. 

The C Festival was the last of three competitive rugby events organised by the club, forty five teams ranging from the under 7s through to the under 12s.

Hosts, the Cobham Rugby Club, came away with several accolades:

Under 12s    cup winners

Under 8s    plate winners

Under 10s    runner’s up

Under 11s    runner’s up

Simon Ashwell, Head of Savills Weybridge and team coach for the Mini’s comments:  “The festival is an excellent opportunity to encourage children to play rugby as a competitive sport.  The successes the teams have achieved over the course of this Festival and, particularly in the final event, have gone to show the extent of their ability and skill.”

Chris Mitchell, Cobham Rugby Club Festival Chairman, comments:  “We are very grateful that Alex Rogers and Dan Frazier from Quins were able to present medals to the winners, runners up and plate winners.  Over the course of the three festivals, over 2,000 children plus their parents attended our Festival coming from as far as Dorset and Sussex. We are most grateful to our sponsors who support our event so generously without whom we would not be able to offer such a wide program.”

On Wednesday 27th May, the Surrey Youth League awards were held at Twickenham where Cobham Youth collected the Under 13 Division 2 title and the Under 16 Division 1 title.

In addition George Taylor was named as Surrey County Under 15 player of the year and Morgan Fletcher was named Surrey County Under 17 player of the year . 

There was also international recognition with Alex Stout England Under 16s collecting his half colours and Tom Flynn and Sean Herbert named for their selection to the USA Under 17s team. 

To complete the full set Joe Trayfoot was named for his selection in the England 18s squad and George Lowe offered best wishes as he flew out the following day with the England Under 20 squad to Japan for the world cup. 

Congratulations to you all 

Steve Heard

Youth Chairman

A big thank you to Roger Chappell for the use of one of his removal vans to help the move of Duncan Campbell's family from Esher to Cobham at the weekend.
 
Thanks to the following senior players and management for giving there time to help the Campbell family move.  
 
Pictured left to right are:  Chris Moreton, Arran Cowell, Tristan Lee, Dan Taylor, Martin Green, Angus Darroch-Warren, Dave Silver,Tom Schofield, Lee Raikes, Andy Alexander,
Tony Balkwill, Alex Cook

Friday 12^th June saw Cobham Rugby Club and the CSA host our inaugural Sportsman’s Dinner in aid of Duncan Campbell.

The evening was an amazing success. A real spirit of what Cobham Rugby Club is all about was felt throughout the weeks leading up to the event.

General Manager, Mags Davison said

“I was overwhelmed by the emails and phone calls from members pledging money and a huge thank you to you all.

All the profits from the evening will go directly to Duncan and his family to help them at this difficult time.

An excess of £11,500 was raised! The evening itself was so incredible and emotional that we are still reeling with the buzz from it all.

Duncan was given a pass from hospital for the evening and it was lovely having him and his wife Kelly with us.

Jason Leonard was our guest for the night and gave a funny and inspirational Question and Answer session.

Jason also donated a signed Martin Johnson photo and book that can be seen in the club (as it was donated back to Cobham Rugby).

The food, provided by Vanilla Bean, was fantastic and the free vintage port went down a treat and the night went on till the early hours of the morning.

The Cobham Sportsman’s Dinner will be an annual event and all funds raised will be collected in the Cobham Benevolent fund for members in need.

It is early days yet, but a Benefit committee will be appointed in the new season to oversee this account.

The date for the next event will be announced in the new season along with the Social Events Calendar. Watch out for that.

Thank you again to all who donated and in doing so, brought the club closer together. “

So that’s that then. Season done, leagues all wrapped up, and a hard earned but worthy 3^rd place upon our return to London Two, 4 points behind second placed Dorking, and 6 adrift from winners Basingstoke.

Had our away form (W 5  D 1  L 5  F 185  A 170) come a little closer to our home form (W 10   L1   F 321  A 127), then our challenge would have been that much stronger – but all in all a highly successful season, which augers well for our tilt at next season’s league.

Perhaps slightly against expectation (most certainly against Staines’ expectations!!!), home form and perceived advantage counted for nought as Dorking beat Staines 11 – 7 in the London Two play off match at Staines on Saturday, and secured their place in the next flight for next season – the newly entitled National League Three London and South East division.

We wish Ritchie Andrews, Hoady and the Dorking guys well in their travails next season (and of course, League winners Basingstoke). Neither will wish to emulate the 2008 London Two South winners Haywards Heath, who, having gained promotion to this years London One, have returned a record of played 22, lost 19, (plus one further loss in the cup) and despite the re-organisation and re-sizing of the leagues, are one of only two clubs in the whole country being relegated from that level.

With Wimbledon beating Aylesford Bulls in the London 3 play-offs, it leaves our league (to be re-titled 'London One South' next season), as follows:

Three Surrey clubs, two from Sussex and nine from Kent; giving us 26 league fixtures (up from 22 last year).

With no appeals or level transfers apparent at our level, this should be definitive – but given the propensity of the RFU to keep the goalposts on well oiled and ever mobile wheels, nothing should be taken for granted until the fixture lists are issued!

Elsewhere, the “A” XV finished a very creditable 4^th in the Surrey Premier Reserve leagues, which was won by the unbeaten Chobham 2^nd XV, winning 10 from 18 games; and but for a couple of early set backs might well have fared better; and the 3^rd XV won their Surrey Combination league, losing only one match along the way.

Next season should see the end of the worst of the ELV’s – in particular the ridiculous experiment we have had to endure this year with the collapsing of the maul being allowed. Given our current forwards that should be to our favour as next season gets underway; and it could be argued that the game as a whole has been disfigured by that particular law change, and there seem few people who will mourn its passing!

Ian Johnson

Club President - Cobham Rugby

1st August 2008

Chairman of the Senior Section at Cobham Rugby, Tony Balkwill, announced today that Jack Davison has been appointed as Captain of the First XV for the season 08-09.

Tony said: "I am really delighted that Jack Davison has been appointed as Captain at Cobham. He has all the attributes of a great leader, performing with passion and determination on the field and encouraging others off it.

"Following in the large boots of his brother, Billy, is a tough one, but sibling rivalry will ensure a very successful season."

-----

See Cobham's last Pre Season Match:
Date: Saturday 6th September 2008
Opposition: Staines RFC (Away)
Venue: The Reeves', Snakey Lane (formerly Feltham Hill Road), Hanworth, Middlesex TW13 7NB. Kick Off TBC

Cobham Rugby Club hosted the first day of the touraid tournament on Thursday 9th October

touraid - the children's charity that establishes sustainable relationships between rugby schools and clubs in the UK with similar organisations around the globe - welcomed 10 teams to the UK to play in the Tullow Oil Touraid Cup.

This tournament sees teams compete in fifteens and are a mix of touring boys and host boys, further forging bonds between the youngsters. 

Esher Rugby Club will host the finals on Saturday 11th October, all spectators are welcome to support this unique event.

Further details on the schedule are available on the touraid website.

Tullow Oil are sponsoring the tournament and touraid would like to thank all sponsors for their wonderful support, including Ashurst who are kindly sponsoring the involvement of the touraid ambassadors.

Cobham 1st XV welcomed Tunbridge Wells and played some of the best rugby the Chairman of Senior Rugby, Tony Balkwill, has seem them play - well done guys.

Cobham 30 Tunbridge Wells 14

Cobham moved to fourth in London South Division Two with a win at Maidstone.

Fielding a team hit by injuries Cobham still secured a third win from four games to continue their recent good form.

There were also wins for the As and 3rd and with the All Stars drawing with Farnham meant it was a undefeated weekend for Cobham.

More details to follow.

Maidstone 6  -  Cobham 1st XV 22 Click here for match report

Cobham As 15  -  KCS Old Boys 2nds 12

Cobham 3rds 19  -  Purley John Fisher 3rds 12

Cobham All Stars 15  -  Farnham Vets 15

Mundays Cobham Vets Tournament / Beer Festival

The Cobham Vets Tournament was won by a very strong Civil Service team against the Cobham All Stars in a hard fought final.

The tournament, sponsored by Mundays Solicitors, ran alongside the Cobham Beer Festival and both supplied great entertainment!

Full results are below a selection of photos from the day.

Cobham attack against Civil Service in the Vets Final...

.. the Control Gazebo with DJ Adams providing commentary...

..scrum down to Cobham against Civil Service...

..Frosty and Brooksy watchy...

.. a large crowd attended the final game..

.. but it was Civil Service who collected the winning trophy.

11.00: Cobham 35 - Guys 14 / Civil Service 28 - Weybridge Vandals 7
11.30: Cranleigh 24 - Tadley 21
12.00: Guys 7 - Racal 14 / Weybridge Vandals 21 - Teddington 14
12.30: Guildford 0 - London Media 26 / Tadley 21 - Tavernians 7
1.00:  Cobham 14 - Racal 7 / Civil Service 33 - Teddington 14
1.30:  Guildford 35 - London Media 12 / Cranleigh 40 - Tavernians 7

2.30:  Plate Semis:  Racal 0 - Guildford 14; Weybridge 12 - Tadley 5

3.00:  Cup Semis:  Cobham 40 - London Media 14; Civil Service 21 - Cranleigh 14

3.30:  Plate Final: Guildford 7 - Weybridge 21

4.00:  Cup Final: Civil Service 35 - Cobham 14

London Division 3 South West

Cobham 41 - Old Reigatians 7

Cobham secured the Championship of London South West Division 3 with victory over Old Reigatians 41-7 to gain promotion and are also Champions of the League.

It was a hotly contested game with Old Reigatians quick out of the blocks but Cobham perservered and ran out deserved winners with Richard Blackmore named 'Man of the Match'.

London League 2 South

Cobham  30  Tunbridge Wells 14

(with apologies to Tunbridge Wells for an earlier iteration of this report which failed miserably to correctly note the full name of your club - almost as bad as calling us Chobham. Forgive our unintended slight)

In an absorbing and highly entertaining match played at tremendous pace, Cobham eventually ran out comfortable winners in this London League two encounter by 30 points to 14. Cobham scored four well taken tries against a very useful visiting side, who finished fourth in this league last season. Tunbridge Wells, for their part, were never outclassed, but in the end could not cope with the relentless pressure applied by a pacy and skilful Cobham side.

The tone was set at the very start: Tunbridge Wells failed to secure Dan Taylor’s kick off; Cobham skipper and No 8 Jack Davison, in his first league appearance following a shoulder injury during the pre-season games, regathered. The Cobham forwards drove hard at the visitors defence and prop Lee Raikes plunged over for a try to open the scoring before many of the spectators had even taken their places on the touchline.

The ensuing 40 minutes were played at breathtaking speed. Both sides were committed to attack, and yet gave little away in defence as the game see-sawed from one end of the pitch to the other. After a Tunbridge Wells transgression on the half-way line, scrum half Franks took a quick tap penalty, & made valuable yards before feeding centre Kevin Fisher, who in conjunction with winger Piers Gregory turned the defence inside out before Franks popped up on the inside pass to score Cobham’s second try, converted from wide out by full back Cowell.

Tunbridge Wells however were not visiting merely to make up the numbers. Tunbridge Wells fly half Rogers was always looking to get the ball wide, where wingers Doherty and Jones always looked dangerous, given space; and when Cobham left the smallest of gaps in midfield centre McMahon jinked outside the attempted tap tackle of David McCallum, and broke the Cobham line for full back Murtagh to score in the corner, which he also converted.

This prompted an immediate response from Cobham. From the kick off, Tunbridge Wells gathered and kicked back deep into the Cobham 22. Winger Tim Green ran the ball back strongly; Cobham recycled  quickly and centre Kevin Fisher carved the defence apart in midfield before Piers Gregory outpaced the remainder to score under the posts, leaving Cowell the simplest of conversions.

The closing exchanges of the first half saw Tunbridge Wells hooker Acklam warned then yellow carded for repeated handling in the ruck by Mr Ricci, the visiting Hertfordshire society referee, who was generally excellent throughout; before the half time whistle went with the score at 19 – 7.

The second half was never likely to match the pace of the first, and so it proved. Both defences tightened up; the introduction of Matt Johnson at blind side by Cobham at half time proving crucial on two occasions when Tunbridge Wells threatened the Cobham line. A penalty shortly after half time gave Cobham a comfortable fifteen point cushion. If there has been a lesson to be learnt in the past two weeks, it has been that at this level mistakes and lapses of concentration are generally severely punished; as was proved when a loose ball in the middle of the park was snaffled by Tundbridge Wells flyhalf Rogers, who then outsprinted the defence from halfway for Tunbridge’s second try, converted by Murtagh, to close the gap to 8 points. Somewhat surprisingly they then spurned a penalty chance to close the gap further, opting for the 5 metre line out. However, Cobham’s defence held firm and Cowell was able to clear the line after some fierce counter-rucking by locks Bill Davison and Jamie Durward turned the ball over.

Cobham continued to exert pressure, with replacement prop Mealin enjoying several yard-eating drives; from one of which Tunbridge Wells lock Harrison received their second yellow card after killing the ball at the ensuing ruck Although Cowell could not convert the penalty on that occasion, Tunbridge Wells, with one man down, found it hard to clear their lines and with five minutes remaining, Jack Davison dived over for Cobham’s fourth try; to be followed a few minutes later by a late penalty from full back Cowell to complete the scoring at 30 – 14.

There’s no doubt Cobham have adjusted fast to the added pace and pressure of London Two rugby. The experienced Spencer Franks at scrum half is revelling in his return to rugby at this higher level, and the quality of his passing especially is enabling the undoubted class of the Cobham backs to show through. Praise, too, for the Cobham forwards. Lock Jamie Durward, at 20, paired with the hugely experienced Bill Davison is a potent combination; whatever combination Cobham field in the front row at the moment is a large and daunting prospect; and back rowers Ben Creed, Jack Davison, Alex Cook and in the second half Matt Johnson were all tremendously effective.

On this performance, and with the side still potentially on a learning curve, Cobham look well set to be extremely competitive at this level, and will be looking forward to the challenges ahead.

We are very sad to report the death of Mike Cox on 1st March 2008. He was diagnosed with inoperable liver cancer earlier this year to which he succumbed very quickly.

Mike joined what was the Old Surbitonians Cricket Club in the early 70's although he wasn't an old boy of the school.  Mike was an attacking batsman, and occasional medium pace bowler. He never commanded a regular place in the 1st XI, but was a great club member and the life and soul of the party in the bar. He was responsible to a large extent for the good team spirit in our 2nd XI league team, and he always enjoyed our social Sunday fixtures.

Mike served as Secretary of the OId Surbitonian Association for several years and was an active participant in the running of the club.

Our condolences go out to his widow Sandra, and daughters, Michelle and Melissa.

His funeral will take place at Randalls Park Crematorium at 11.00am Thursday 13th March – no flowers please – donations to Princess Alice Hospice.

SURREY UNDER 17s DEMOLISH ESSEX.
 
Surrey's under 17 squad travelled to Southend on Sunday to face what on paper was a very strong Essex side. Both Cobham players Josh Brown and Cameron Smart played magnificently in a 51 - 5 demolition.Surrey coaches were full of praise for both Cobham players after the match.The next Surrey game for Josh and Cameron will be at Camberley RFC  on the 13th of April against Hertfordshire.

London Division 3 South West

Cobham v Old Wimbledonians

8th March 2008

Old Wimbledonians were unable to field a full team so a default win and two points are awarded to Cobham.

Table at 090308

London Division 3 South West

Cobham 38 Winchester 0

After last week’s hiccough against Purley, this re-played league match against Winchester was a welcome early opportunity for Cobham to regain their early season form and re-establish a gap at the top of London League 3SW.

The original home fixture with Winchester was deemed to have been abandoned as a consequence of the visitors losing two prop forwards through injury in the first half; thus forcing the game to be played out with unopposed scrums, and although the result was an emphatic win for Cobham, the competition regulations did not permit the score to stand.

After heavy rain at the back end of last week it was a pleasure to see the Fairmile lane pitch is such good condition, and with very little breeze and a liberal dose of winter sun, it was an ideal afternoon for Cobham to get back to winning ways.

From the start, Cobham signalled their intention. Last week’s retreating scrum and non-functioning line-out were a distant memory. The return of Will Mealin at prop and Jack Davison at 8 added steel in both tight and loose play; and as the game progresses, Winchester’s scrum could not cope with the pressure, being driven off several of their own put in’s at the scrum. Even the departure of prop Darroch-Warren to the sin bin at the end of the first half did little to ease the pressure, with replacement Paul Mayer proving an able deputy. Matt Hahn enjoyed a highly productive afternoon in the lineout, and in the loose, the back row combination of Mills, Davison and Creed worked tirelessly to disrupt what little clean ball Winchester did enjoy.

However the major difference between the two sides was in the backs. Five well taken tries from the backs, three in the first half and two in the second, ensured a comfortable win for the home side. Man of the match Tim Green at inside centre contributed 18 points with a try, a penalty and five conversions and was a consistent threat throughout; the only black mark being a high tackle on the Winchester full back; which although accidental, was nonetheless perhaps fortunate not to result in a 10 minute rest from proceedings. Winger Ritchie Blackmore scored twice from long range, proving that there is no substitute for pace; full back Sutton and scrum half and Captain JP O’Reilly also crossing to complete the scoreline. Winger Blackmore could easily have scored two more in the first half, had full back Sutton, after two superb breaks from deep, not left the final pass too late.

There was also a very welcome return to the pitch for Spencer Franks as replacement scrum half late in the second half, after missing most of the season to date with a broken ankle.

Winchester, to their credit, never gave up trying; and the fact that they failed to record a score was testament to Cobham’s excellent defence, which was tested to the full during one long spell of pressure shortly before half time, and proved to be unyielding.

Cobham now have the return match next week at Winchester to look forward to, followed the week after by a local derby at home to Effingham. With the injury list which has plagued the last couple of months finally easing, Coach Bill Davison’s biggest problems could well be who to leave out; and if the form shown on Saturday can be replicated, the remainder of the league season should hopefully be just as successful.

London Division 3 South West
Old Reigations 15 Cobham 23
1st December 2007

Tries from Bennett and O'Reilley seal league victory for Cobham

Cobham emerged victorious in a replay of the cup game only two weeks ago in a tough match against Old Reigations.

The weather was very cold and the wind was quite strong coming down the slope of the pitch so there was a tremendous advantage playing down the considerable hill. Cobham had the advantage of the slope in the first half but knew that they would have get in front by a reasonable margin otherwise the probability of winning would be much reduced. Two tries for Cobham from Mark Bennett and J-P O'Reilley in the first half put Cobham into a reasonable lead just before half time but the home side managed a try just before the half time whistle to reduce the Cobham lead to 8-20.

Playing the match downhill in the second half Reigatians scored another converted try after the kick-off thus reducing the Cobham lead to just five points. The game was then very even as Reigations continuously attacked downhill but were rejected from any further scores by some solid Cobham defence from both forwards and backs. With the home side unable to score, a try would have given them at least a draw, Cobham then finished more strongly scoring a penalty to ensure that Reigations needed to score twice to win. The home side failed to manage even a single score in the remainder of the match and Cobham took a just victory after scoring another penalty which established an eight point win.

At the start of the match Cobham kicked off down the slope and attacked with vigour, winning a penalty which David MacCallum was successful with to give Cobham an opening score. Cobham continued to attack with the forwards driving towards the try line and Mark Bennett scored a good try which was converted to give Cobham a ten point lead. Reigations responded quite well getting into the Cobham 22 and won a penalty, reducing the Cobham lead. A break by David MacCallum forced the home side to defend strongly but Reigations were again penalised and Cobham were back to a ten point lead.

Cobham continued on the attack, J-P O'Reilley was tackled without the ball which won Cobham a penalty, and from the line out close to the Reigations line the Cobham pack drove strongly forward with Angus Darroch-Warren taking play close to the line and J-P O'Reilley dashed in for a try, Dave MacCallum converting. Cobham needed a good lead before they turned around for the second half but Reigations gave them a shock winning a lineout close to the Cobham line and Richard Pennington dashed down the blind side of the ruck to score Reigations first try. Cobham almost responded with a try, the returning fly half Dan Taylor who had a very good game kicked the length of the pitch for a linoeout close to the Reigations line, but despite a good forwards drive, Cobham were unable to score more in the first half.

Reigations started the second half playing down hill and kicking with a following wind. The home side kept attacking and eventually kicked down field with Cobham forced to attempt a touch find from behind their own line, but the Cobham kick was charged down and Mike Ryan of Reigations won the race to touch down the loose ball to score a try and they came within five points of Cobham. Cobham played the right tactics moving the ball forward by some excellent handling moves and drives uphill by the forwards, and did sufficient to prevent the home side from attacking downfield with any success. Cobham then continued with the attacks upfield, J-P O'Reilley having a good break to take play up to the Reigations 22.

The attack was continued by the forwards, Cobham driving to two metres from the Reigations line but were stopped only by an activity which was justly penalised and Dave MacCallum was successful with the penalty to give Cobham an eight point lead. This demanded that Reigations score twice in the final minutes if they were to achieve a win.

This they failed to do Cobham being strongly defensive in the final minutes and were able to gain an important victory to maintain an unbeaten performance in the league and impressive league leadership.

Cobham: N Sutton, M Green, D MacCallum, T Green, N Jones; D Taylor, J-P O'Reilley; A Mealin, M Bennett, A Darroch-Warren, B Pickett, J Durward, B Creed, D Kearsey, T Lee

Report by Tony Maddocks

London Division 3 South West
Cobham 46 London Irish Wild Geese 0
15 December 2007

Cobham overpower opposition to remain undefeated in League games throughout 2007

Cobham extended their unbeaten league record to 29 games on Saturday, with a resounding 46-0 victory over London Irish Amateurs at Fairmile Lane, in a match which the visitors kindly agreed would act as a 'double header' - combining the scheduled league fixture with the 1st round Surrey Cup game.

Expectations for the game were high: the encounter between the two sides over at Sunbury last month was a tense and close run affair, with Cobham scoring late in the game to seal the win. Furthermore, throughout October and November, Cobham's injury list has outnumbered the list of players available for selection; so it was encouraging to see a stronger side available at last

The match itself however left much to be desired. As a spectacle, the game was marred by a series of quite unpleasant incidents, which the referee dealt with well, resulting in two yellow cards for London Irish, one in each half, and culminating in the sending off of an Irish Forward 10 minutes into the second half for a stamp on Cobham prop Darroch-Warren; who was forced to leave the field for treatment as a consequence.

If the London Irish game plan had been to unsettle Cobham's rhythm through their over-aggressive approach, then it failed dismally. The Cobham players refused to be dragged into a scrap, preferring their response to be made via the score board. 2 tries each from flanker Davison and hooker Bennett, and further tries from scrum half O'Reilly, centre Nick Jones and full back Sutton, coupled with four well taken conversations and a penalty from centre Tim Green, making up the final scoreline. Sadly for Cobham, Scrum half O'Reilly injured his thigh muscle in scoring and must now be doubtful for the January fixtures.

For Cobham, 19 year old second row Jamie Durward was outstanding throughout, and Tim Green in the centre made a fine contribution, including one superb break to set up the try for Nick Sutton. The whole side performed well in difficult circumstances, with all players making significant contributions but special mentions are due also to winger Ritchie Blackmore, who always looked dangerous with the ball, and the whole back row of Jack Davison, Ben Creed and Regan Haynes, who were excellent in all elements of the game.

Cobham's next game is away against 2nd placed Purley John Fisher; before back to back games against Winchester. If they can maintain the standard of this performance there is no reason why this unbeaten run should not continue for some while yet.

Report by Cobham RFC

London Division 3 South West
London Irish Wild Geese 15 Cobham 23
10 November 2007

Cobham attack in second half to give Wild Geese no chance

Cobham won an important League match against London Irish Wild Geese, with both sides being in the top three of the league prior to the game, and both looking for a win to maintain or improve their league position.

Cobham were not at their strongest team, both skipper Billy Davison and former skipper Martin Green being unable to play due to broken limbs, Jack Davison was also unavailable. Consequently, there were a number of changes in the side from previous weeks that indicated that the game against Wild Geese was going to be very tough.

The Wild Geese side appeared to be very strong when the match started ,being very fast in the threequarters and the back row, and providing good support to any players that broke through the Cobham defence. Wild Geese scored two tries in the first half as the powerful centres drove through and were well supported but Cobham stayed in the game responding with firstly a try from Steve Burton as the result of a brilliant pacey attack and then just before half time the forwards drove over, Mark Bennett levelling the score with Cobham's second try.

Cobham had been under pressure in the first half and had done exceptionally well to level the half time score at 12-12 but in the second half made some significant improvements. Cobham tightened up the defence and the only score Wild Geese managed in the second half was a penalty but Cobham also raised their game scoring two penalties and then in the final minutes scored a third try, J-P O'Reilly dashing over from a ruck close to the opposition line. A very impressive win by a good margin 15-23 and Cobham can be well pleased with an important victory.

The match started in sensational style, Wild Geese scoring in the opening moments with a break in the threequarters from a missed tackle, allowing Sam McKinney to sprint through for a converted try. With the strength and speed of the attack it appeared that Cobham were going to be under pressure for the entire match but Cobham soon responded with an attack in the opposition half, Richie Blackmore having a good attacking run.

Cobham kept up the attack, Nick Sutton running strongly out of the Cobham half and after several exchanges between speedy attacking threequarters, Steve Burton scored a magnificent try which Dave MacCullum converted to level the scores. The play was then pretty even, both sides attacking well, wing forward Tristan Lee having a strong run for Cobham but Wild Geese then found a gap in midfield and Ben Kitching picked up the pass which allowed him to sprint over to set up a 12-5 lead. The game was tough and Matt Hahn was forced to leave the field through injury to be replaced by the experienced Matt Jarvis. Cobham defended well to prevent any more Wild Geese tries in the first half but then responded well , Nick Jones made a good break in the centre to gain some good ground and in the lineout following a penalty for Cobham, Ben Pickett made a good catch, the forwards drove well to the the line and Mark Bennett scored Cobham's second try to level the scores.

At the start of the second half Cobham went into the attack at pace forcing Wild Geese to infringe at a ruck and Dave MacCullum scored a penalty to give Cobham the lead for the first time in the match. Wild Geese responded well with a series of attacks that took play deep into the Cobham 22, but Cobham managed to gain possession and ran fifty metres back into the opposition half forcing an infringement at a ruck, and Dave MacCullum scored an excellent penalty to extend the Cobham lead to six points.

Both sides were playing well with good moves to gain ground on the pitch but then Wild Geese upped their game moving over the length of the field only being stopped from scoring a try by some magnificent defence in front of the Cobham posts. Cobham were however penalised at a ruck and Wild Geese were able reduce the lead to three points with a successfully scored penalty. With only three points required to level the match and a single try to win the game, Wild Geese started playing with tremendous vigour with a series of relentless attacks, being very keen to achieve the winning score. With only minutes to go there was every opportunity for the home side to win but good solid tackling by Cobham prevented such an advance.

In the final minutes Richie Blackmoore intercepted a pass and Cobham took play deep into the Wild Geese half. The Cobham forwards forced a ruck two metres from the Wild Geese line and when the ball was won, J-P O'Reilly took the ball and nipped in at the blind side to score a sensational try for Cobham, giving the home side no opportunity to win.

Cobham: N Sutton, M R Blackmore, S Burton, N Jones, H White; D MacCullum, C Perry; R Nunn, M Bennett, W Mealin, B Pickett, M Hahn(Capt.), B Creed, T Lee, R Haynes

Report by Tony Maddocks

EDF Senior Vase
Old Reigatians 13 Cobham 11
17 November 2007

Cobham knocked out of EDF Senior Vase

Facing Old Reigatians in the 3rd round of the EDF Senior Vase, the Cobham team was somewhat changed from the previous week with seven different players but the fact that the score difference was only two points at the end it was a good indication of Cobham's strength in depth.

In the first half a Cobham try from Regan Haynes and two penalties from Chris Perry almost matched Reigatians score, also two penalties and a try, the only difference being the conversion. Cobham were in with a good chance at half time being only two points behind and turning around to play slightly downhill on the pitch which should have been a good advantage.

But for the second half Cobham's normal game of rigorous forward play at pace was far more difficult to achieve as it was a damp and chilly November day which made it extremely difficult to add to their score. The quality of play of the two teams was very similar but Reigatians were a little bit better organised in using and responding to the slope of their pitch and were able to defend strongly in the second half. In fact the late kick-off meant that it was dark at the end of the match and Cobham found it difficult to score despite some relentless attacks. Overall Reigatians managed to preserve their two point lead as there was no scoring by either side in the second half.

At the start of the match Reigatians won the toss, played down the slope and were quickly in the lead with a penalty in the opening minutes. Cobham quickly settled into their normal impressive style of play with forwards getting on the attack and making good ground, Regan Haynes having a good run, being well supported by his back row colleagues. Cobham had a few good moves and the forwards got close to the Reigatians line but good defence prevented Cobham from scoring. Reigatians responded with an attack but a hard tackle by Steve Burton stopped them in their tracks and Cobham were able to continue with their attacks.

They had a lineout deep in the Reigatians 22 where a good catch by Ben Pickett gave Cobham possession and the forwards combined well to drive over the line, Regan Haynes scoring a try to give Cobham the lead. But from the following re-start Reigatians responded quickly, winning the ball immediately and beating the Cobham defence in a run to the line, the left winger scoring under the posts, allowing the try to be easily converted and restoring the lead at 10-5. A good run by Regan Haynes took play deep into the opposition half and Chris Perry kicked a penalty to reduce the Reigatians lead to two points. The match then settled down to an even game, neither side was able to dominate, and after Reigatians extended their lead through a penalty, Cobham finished the half 13-11 down after another successful penalty, this time from a well struck kick by Nick Jones.

After half time Cobham played down the slope and there was every chance that they would win if they played their standard game. They kicked off and had some good possession but the game was halted due to the clash between Peter Hinchcliffe and an opposition centre. They both recovered after a few minutes and Cobham then attacked again and won a penalty due to Regatians hands in the ruck, but Chris Perry just missed despite a good kick and the score remained the same.

Reigatians were forced to defend the Cobham attacks and did quite well since the running on the pitch was not that easy. Cobham had plenty of possession but although the difficult defence work was associated with the high kicks, Reigatians were not presented with these kicks until midway through the second half.

Cobham then forced a couple of scrums five metres from the opposition line but were unable to drive over for another try, the wet pitch and dark sky did not help and despite their advantage of possession, Cobham were totally unable to score. Having defended well, Reigatians then attacked and for the next ten minutes the game was played in the Cobham half with Reigatians kicking the ball high and following up strongly, causing Cobham to do nothing but defend. The time went quickly and when Cobham forced play deep into the Reigatians 22 there was little opportunity to score, despite some magnificent attempts by the Cobham team.

This was the first loss of the season, but with many of the top players injured and due to return shortly, Cobham's top form will return in time for the return against Reigatians in the league.

Cobham: N Sutton, A Flower, S Burton, P Hinchcliffe, K Jarvis; N Jones, C Perry; T Lee, W Holland, J Bright, B Pickett, J Forward, B Creed, D Kearsey, R Haynes

Report by Tony Maddocks

London Division 3 South West
Effingham 14 Cobham 39
20 October 2007

Total second half control by Cobham gives victory

In their match against against local rivals Effingham, Cobham fielded a much changed side compared with a couple of weeks ago, missing player-coach Billy Davison and several other top players. However after a fairly even first half where Effingham scored a couple of tries and Cobham only managed one, the second half was totally different with the performance of the Cobham side demonstrating that they were much fitter and faster than the opposition.

Cobham scored four excellent tries in the second half in addition to a couple of penalties whereas the Cobham defence was as solid as it has been this season and Effingham added no more score after halftime. The Cobham support play was exceptional in the second half with Martin Green setting up fly half Nick James and centres David MacCallum and Kevin Jarvis with opportunity to run the ball at pace with excellent support from many of the the Cobham pack, Ben Picket being man of the match.

With a break in midfield by Nick Sutton or the centres, Cobham moved the ball time and again out to their speedy wingers Richard Blackmore and Laurence Bendall and all tries in the second half were scored by the threequarters with excellent support from the pack. Effingham did attack strongly towards the end of the second half but a fine defence by Cobham prevented any further Effingham score; as a result Cobham came away with another excellent win for the season to retain their position at top of the league

Cobham kicked off at the start of the match but soon found themselves under attack by the home side. Effingham attacked in the Cobham half, stretching the defence but after the initial attack had been stopped adequately with some solid defence, a tackle was missed and Effingham prop Mike Byrne made a sprint to the line to score a try with Johnathan Grooley converting to give Effingham a seven point lead. Effingham were playing very well at this time and it looked as if they scored again right away there would be no stopping a solid victory.

But Cobham responded quickly with a good break and sprint by Kevin Jarvis to take play deep into the Effingham half, Laurence Bendall scoring a good converted try to level the score. The match then became fairly even with both sides attacking and causing good solid defence, but just before half time Effingham retained their early lead with a second try. Effingham had kicked ahead into the Cobham half but the Cobham defence found it difficult to control the ball and the additional Effingham support players in attendance allowed the home side to gather possession, Nick Wooster scoring a try to give Effingham a 14-7 lead. Towards the end of the half Cobham took more control, working at pace to stretch the Effingham defence, failed to score but nevertheless were looking stronger.

At the start of the second half Cobham managed to reduce the points deficit with a fine penalty from David MacCallum and moments later Cobham attacked with vigour with both Tristan Lee and Laurence Bendall in the move which was finished off by fly half Nick James who scored a good try close to the posts. This gave Cobham a three point lead and from that point onwards the Cobham pace and support play was too fast for Effingham. Cobham set up a further attack and moved the ball along the line where winger Richie Blackmore beat the defence for Cobham's third try to extend the lead, David MacCallum converting.

The result was put beyond doubt a few moments later when another fast threequarter move gave speedy Nick Sutton a chance to sprint to the line and the fullback clinched it for Cobham with a try. Effingham managed a few attacks getting into the Cobham 22 on a few occasions but were unable to score as Cobham defended well. Cobham then attacked with a good run by Richie Blackmore taking play 50 metres closer to the Effingham line, the home team went offside and David MacCallum scored his second penalty to extend the Cobham lead. At the end of the match in the final Cobham attack , good ground was made at pace, David MacCallum with a good break being well supported by Richie Blackmore, and Laurence Bendall scored the final try at speed to take the visitors up to 39 points.

Cobham's performance in the second half was vastly superior to that of the first half, with Effingham unable to match the pace and fitness, and it is clear that with the number of team changes made for this match Cobham now have tremendous strength in depth that should see them well organised for the rest of the season.

Cobham: N Sutton, R Blackmore, K Jarvis, D MacCallum, L Bendall ; N Jones, M Green; T Lee, W Holland, A Darroch-Warren, B Pickett, M Lockwood, S Mills, J Green, R Haynes

Report by Tony Maddocks

Matt's Blog

2nd Edition - September 2007

Well where do I start, it's been almost 4 months and the time has just flown by, it feels as though I'm as much a part of the furniture now as anyone else. Keeping busy is definitely the key to staying motivated, between the rugby, working and obviously the socialising, I haven't had a chance to sit down and think of anything other than my new life over here in the UK.

This week will be my third competition game with the first side, a team that has so far shown the ability to take on most if not all New Zealand premiere club sides and be successful, I have been impressed from the outset with the standard at which this team performs both during the week and on saturdays, everyone keeps asking about the 'standard' of rugby over here and I don't know what to say really apart from the fact the physicality might not be as high I'd be hard pressed to say that it this level its any lower than New Zealand club rugby, obviously there will be mixed reaction to that comment but that's purely from my experience.

So what have I done other than rugby?? Well that's in interesting question, I still haven't managed to get a round of golf in yet (my second love) and with the way the weather is going I might be along time until I do. Im still employed by Walton Road Garage driving the van which gets me out and about to see the countryside and I have just this week arrived back from four days in Scotland, where I got the pleasure of catching the All Blacks vs. Scotland at Murrayfield (thanks again franks) and also catch up with a soon to be new member of Cobham, my cousin who was playing in Scotland and is as I write on his way down, and hopefully getting ready for his first taste of Cobham rugby tomorrow with the second side.

Sundays are now taken up with coaching the Cobham U16s, which I am really enjoying; so far we have played one won one and now preparing for our second game in the weekend (go hard boys!!) also to add to my coaching bow I am coaching the Esher College 1st 15 and the Hinchly Wood School Yr7s which turned out to be a little bit of a challenge, I've never been called Sir before lol.

I've probably left a lot of things out and Im sorry but most of what has been going on is just life as usual now what can I say "Im just living the dream"

Till next time

Matt

________________________________________________

My First Blog - July 2007

Kiwi comes to Cobham

As I said good bye to my parents (trying to hide any emotion) and boarded the plane, it suddenly struck me, what have I got myself into? Here I sit in a small plane, by myself, at the top of the North Island of New Zealand, starting what is to be a 24 hour journey to the UK where I'm said to be getting picked up at Heathrow airport by someone I don't know and going to some place I have never heard of, at this point to say I was nervous would be an understatement, but I tell you now, what an enjoyable ride it has been so far.

Kia ora, my name is Mathew Maraki (or Matt as I'm known to friends), for those of you who I have not had the pleasure of meeting, I come from a small rural town called Kaikohe in Northland New Zealand and I am here in the UK with the purpose of playing rugby for Cobham, and hopefully getting to experience what the UK and Europe has to offer well I'm here.

From Kerikeri, where I said goodbye to my parents, I had a short flight to Auckland at which point I said goodbye to my sister and my niece, from then on it was no turning back and I had a 24 hour flight to Heathrow via LA to look forward too.

After 24 hours and moderate jet lag I arrived in the UK, where I'm collected by Tony Balkwill, it is at this point I start to relax (not that I have much choice in the matter), Tony greets me with a smile and a hand shake and before I know it I'm in a car whipping through London on the way to what will be life for the next two years.

We arrive at Walton Road Garage, which Tony owns with two of his brothers and will be my source of employment, or at least until he gets sick of me, I meet some of the team and forget all the names I'm told and it is also at this point Tony informs I start work the next day (I can't wait, he thinks with a hint of sarcasm).  From there it was off to meet my flat mate Gareth Palmer, who himself had only just arrived back into the country. After a short meet and greet Gareth is off, and it's sleep time for me, I can't wait!

I've been in the UK just over two weeks now and I must say I could not have had a warmer welcome, all the people I have had the pleasure of meeting have been awesome (some common kiwi slang) with a capital A.  All the Cobham boys have been amazing and have made my transition relatively painless.  I've had to adjust to a few things, the money obviously, the length to the days, without a lie, for those of you reading at home, the days are so long the sun rises at about 4am and sets at about 10pm I'm still trying to get my head around it, I wake up in a panic every morning thinking I'm late for work because the sun is out and it is actually about 5am, there is people and traffic everywhere and if I want to park anywhere close to my house I need to be home early, but other than that its all much the same.

So what have I done since I've been here? I hear you ask. Well, other than experiencing the local night life, the day after I arrived I get given a van and a GPS satellite navigation unit and a couple of scooters, a quick run down on basic British road rules and I was off delivering, straight into the deep end, just how I like it! Yes that's right, no time to be home sick here, it's been all go since I've arrived and I'm loving every minute, I've been to Jamiroquai’s manor (or Jay Kay as he's known) delivering scooters and I've had photos with Jonathan Ross. No, I'm not famous, I once again had a delivery and he just happened to have a photographer there and for some reason I happen to be in a couple of photos (so I'm told).  I've been through London on numerous occasions and also driven to Bristol on the other side of the country, which made me late for our first pre-season training (sorry boys)

It was with great pleasure that I attended the black tie (yes mum that's right) Cobham Summer Ball at the Sandown Racecourse, (sorry no photos) at which point I experienced what Cobham rugby club has to offer and if that is the beginning I can't wait for the rest of the season.  I met some great people and had an amazing time, I also run into a couple of Kiwis who live here in Cobham and if I can remember I have been invited to breakfast on Saturday to watch the All Blacks, go Black!!

As I said before pre-season training has started, it's not what I'm accustomed to at home, actually I prefer it, we're not just constantly sprinting, it's high intensity with a lot of variation and it's fun (hopefully I can say that), and for what it's worth for the short time I've been involved I can see I'm going to enjoy playing with Billy and the boys!! As far as the level or standard goes at this stage I'll be comparing apples to oranges and it will not be until the first couple of games I will be able to comment on that, but at the end of the day rugby is rugby hopefully I can learn and contribute.

Well that's me so far here in the UK, as I type it’s almost five o'clock on a Friday afternoon and I'm looking forward to another taste of the local night life.

Thank you to all those who have made my time here so far so enjoyable, I can't begin to show my appreciation to you and what it means to this  country boy from rural New Zealand. If you’re reading at home, mum and dad I miss you hope all is well and from what you can read from above life is good here!

Ka kite

Matt

London Division 3 South West
Cobham 31 Tottonians 16
6 October 2007

Superb first half performance seals Cobham victory

In what turned out to be their toughest game this season Cobham played very well against Tottonians, winning by four tries to two to maintain their postion as unbeaten at the top of the league.

Tottonians proved to be a strong and well organised side but took time to settle and did not reach their peak until the second half when they proved to be very strong competition. Cobham established a winning position in the first half through strong play by the forwards, in both the loose play and the set pieces; after scoring two tries in the first half and also defending well to prevent the visitors from try scoring, Cobham established a 18-6 lead at half time. But Cobham found it much tougher in the second half as Tottonians responded strongly, the visitors being more successful with some of their play. The game was then far more even, as Tottonians had better posession and managed a few well constructed pacy moves. Both sides scored two tries each in the second half but Cobham scored more points through a David MacCallum penalty and Cobham finished just winners at the end of the match.

The game started very smartly for Cobham, Steve Burton finishing off a move and sprinting in very close to the visitor's line. Tottonians were penalised during the Cobham move and fly half David MacCallum scored the penalty to take Cobham into a lead which they were not to lose throughout the match. The Cobham forward play was very good, winning the ball at the ruck and then taking play forward through the drives of the strong forwards. Matt Hahn won possession with a good leap at the lineout and from the surge forward by the pack, Cobham made good ground close to the Tottonians line and Ben Pickett then extracted possession individualy and drove over the line for Cobham's first try.

Tottonians then raised their game and got the backs moving at pace in the Cobham half, having achieved some good possion, putting Cobham under pressure. Cobham defended well, both Nick Sutton and Tim Green putting in some solid tackles to keep the visitors from scoring but eventually Cobham were penalised for a ruck offence and Tottonians full back Robbie Searle kicked a penalty goal from 40 metres to start the visitors scoring. Having restricted the visitors to a mere three ponts it was then Cobham's turn to attack. First Laurence Bendall had a good run on the wing and after another drive by Ben Pickett, Cobham had a scrum deep in the Tottonians 22; Cobham won possession and No8 Jack Davison picked up and forced his way over the line for Cobham's second try.

Both sides scored from penalty awards just before half time, with Cobham leading 18-6 mainly from their two tries.

Cobham extended their lead at the start of the second half, David MacCallum being successful with another penalty goal to give Cobham a 21-6 lead. Cobham started to make a few changes and Ryan Haynes came on in his first top team match to replace James Green at wing forward; additionaly, Matt Maraki was injured and Paul Mayer came on to replace him. Tottonians made a good attack into the Cobham 22 and after setting up a ruck in the Cobham 22 the ball was moved quickly out to winger Joe Jarvis who sprinted in for Tottonians' first try. But Cobham responded well, firstly Nick Sutton having a sharp run to nearly score and then Will Mealin making good ground causing Tottonians to have to defend well. Martin Green playing at scrum half made a good break at the next scrum, and good support was obtained from Ryan Haynes who darted in for a try.

Cobham kept up the pressure and moments later extended their lead. Left wing Laurence Bendall made an excellent run at pace over 50 metres, beating all the Tottonian defenders, and he passed to fly half David MacCallum who finished off the move to score an excellent try. Tottonians were still competing strongly and created a lineout close to the Cobham line. The ball was was won effectively by the visitors, who moved the ball across the line but despite good defence by Cobham, the Tottonians centre Mike Seale dashed in for a try.

Tottonians finished quite strongly looking for more points but good defence by Cobham prevented any further scores and the home side ended up as impressive winners, mainly due to their exceptional performance in the first half.

Cobham: N Sutton, R Blackmore, S Burton, T Green, L Bendall ; D MacCallum, M Green; T Lee, M Maraki, W Mealin, B Pickett, M Hahn, S Mills, J Green, J Davison

Report by Tony Maddocks

Cobham Mini B Festival

Results from Sunday, October 7th Cobham Mini B Festival.

Congratulations to Cobham U9s for winning their Age Group and for U12s who shared the winning honours. Plus well done to the U7s, U8s and U11s who finished runners-up.

U7s Plate Guildford 4 Effingham 3

Final Cobham 2 Teddington 4

U8s Plate Effingham 6 Aldershot & Fleet 1

Final Cobham 4 Old Reeds 5

U9s Plate Effingham 3 Aldershot & Fleet 2

Final Cobham 2 Old Reeds 1

U10s Plate Effingham 15 Aldershot & Fleet 5

Final Guildford 10 Old Reeds 5

U11s Plate Effingham

Final Cobham 0 Teddington 21

U12s Plate Aldershot & Fleet (Old Reeds scratched)

Final Cobham 0 Guildford 0 (trophy shared)

Cobham Mini A Festival

Results from Sunday, September 30th Cobham Mini A Festival.

Congratulations to Cobham's U10s, U9s and U8s for winning their Age Groups in a tournament that saw all Cobham teams play well and reach at least the semi-final stage.

U12s Final, Teddington 14 v Sutton & Epsom 12

U12s Plate Camberley 5 v Tunbridge Wells 0

Cobham knocked out in semis by Teddington 14-21

U11s Final Sutton & Epsom 14 v Old Reeds 0

Plate Camberley 7 v Tunbridge Wells 0

Cobham knocked out in semis by Sutton & E 0-21

U10s Final Cobham 15 v Teddington 0

Plate Camberley 10 v Tunbridge Wells 5

U9s Final Cobham 2 v Teddington 0

Plate Camberley 5 v Old Reeds 0

U8s Final Cobham 6 v Teddington 4

Plate Tunbridge Wells 7 v Camberley 1

U7s Final Teddington 6 v Old Reeds 4

Plate Tunbridge Wells 5 Camberley 2

Cobham knocked out in semis by Teddington 3-4.

London Division 3 South West
London Cornish 3 Cobham 43
29 September 2007

Cobham's second half performance seals victory

The fixture against London Cornish was regarded by many as a performance testing match, as London Cornish had also been promoted into London 3 last season and in their first match last season gave Cobham a difficult game which had resulted in a narrow victory.

Playing London Cornish for the first time this season Cobham expected an extremely tight game game but managed a good victory with almost total control in the match. In the first half Cobham managed to gain the lead with two tries from Simon Mills and Mark Bennett but in the second half Cobham were in total control, scoring another five tries and notching up another thirty additional points. Despite some team changes the Cobham style of play was at the highest level, the skill and strength of the forwards ensuring solid possession in scrum and lineout, but in the second half the overall impressive fitness of the team gave pace in the moves which Cornish found difficult to defend against.

After Simon Mills scored the first try of the second half the threequarters made three tries with Richie Blackmore and David MacCallum both scoring individually with a penalty try from a threequarter move. The final try was an exceptional effort from prop Tristan Lee whose pace was far quicker than most props and was more reminiscent of when he used to play as a wing forward a couple of seasons ago. Overall Cobham mounted a a good result and as a result of their efforts scored their fourth win in a row with no defeats, very much like their performance of last season and they now continue to lead the league table.

At the start of the match Cobham were quickly in to their stride and after a series of attacks in the London Cornish half were very close to scoring but were held up over the line. With the strong style of play it was just a matter of time before scoring, and after a lineout in the Cornish 22 Cobham set up a driving maul using all their strength to drive over the line, Simon Mills scoring the opening try with David MacCallum converting. Cornish responded with a rare attack deep into the Cobham half but could only achieve a penalty goal which turned out to be their only score of the match.

Cobham then had all the possession of the rest of the first half but initially failed to score a couple of tries as they attacked the Cornish line. However just before half time Cobham scored their second try, attacking close to the opposition line from a lineout. Skipper Billy Davison won the ball cleanly in the lineout and the forwards then put on the drive in a highly coordinated manner that Cornish could not prevent and Mark Bennett scored a try to give Cobham a 3-12 lead at half time.

In the second half Cornish needed to score again early on to prevent Cobham expanding their lead but this the home side failed to do, with Cobham continuing with their series of attacks that stretched the Cornish defence. The initial Cobham move went a full fifty metres from the Cobham 22 and after Cornish were penalised, Cobham had a lineout in the Cornish 22 and Simon Mills scored a second try being driven over by the Cobham pack. Cornish defended well against the next Cobham attack but the attack was renewed when Richie Blackmore chipped ahead to the Cornish line. His pace was faster than the Cornish defenders who realised that a try was inevitable and Blackmore was tackled over the line without possession, and as a result Cobham were awarded a penalty try, a good decision by the referee.

In the next move the Cobham forwards won possession from Cornish and the ball was moved along the threequarter line to Richie Blackmore who shrugged off an attempted tackle and sprinted at speed to score a try. There were a couple of changes in the Cobham team, James Oliver coming on for Tim Green and James Green replacing try scorer Simon Mills, but the defence was still very solid and despite being penalised in front of the posts Cobham defended with vigour to prevent Cornish scoring again. In the final stages of the match it was all Cobham, scoring two more tries to give a forty point victory.

Firstly another pacy attack by the three-quarters gave an opportunity for David MacCallum to find a gap in the Cornish defence and the Cobham fly half sprinted a full fifty metres at pace to score an impressive try. Then in the last move of the match Tristan Lee impressively ran through the Cornish defence to score the final try and the overall Cobham performance in this match was as good as anything seen this season.

Cobham now have a fixture at home next week against Old Tottonians who are in the middle of the table and given the visitor's consistent performance in the past the match should prove to be extremely interesting.

Cobham: N Sutton, R Blackmore, S Burton, T Green, L Bendall ; D MacCallum, M Green; T Lee, M Bennett, A Darroch-Warren, B Davison, M Hahn, S Mills, G Hart, J Davison

Report by Tony Maddocks

London Division 3 South West
Cobham 84 KCS Old Boys 0
22 September 2007

Twelve try victory keeps Cobham at the top of the league

Cobham completed an excellent win against visitors KCS Old Boys, scoring over eighty points through twelve tries. This was their third consecutive victory in London Three South West and Cobham have already scored one hundred and seventy nine points, an average of fifty-nine points per match.

The forwards were very strong in the match showing both their speed and fitness, scoring eight of the tries, skipper Billy Davison scoring two and brother Jack scoring another two. In the three-quarters half backs J P O'Reilly and David MacCallum played well, scoring two tries each and outside half MacCallum was was also highly successful with nine of the tries converted and two penalties. One of the major appearances in the game was that of Gavin Hart who played solidly all last season as a major contributor in Cobham's successful season and after his return from playing a season in New Zealand, scored an impressive try in this match just after coming on the pitch. Cobham attacked well throughout the match and KCS also played some good rugby, but found Cobham in a strong defensive mode and the visitors were unable to score a single point despite some well executed moves.

Cobham were into their stride at the start of the match, David MacCallum scoring two penalties in the opening moments as the Cobham attack kicked off at pace, putting significant pressure on the opposition defence. In the next attack, a chip through into the KCS 22 was made by David MacCallum and the fly half then followed up at pace to score the the opening try, also making the conversion.

KCS responded in attack but were unable to score, Cobham defending very strongly and then counter-attacking at pace. From a scrum in the KCS 22, Matt Hahn made a strong drive forward and was able to get an inside pass to J P O'Reilly who sprinted in for the second try. Cobham were now unstoppable, wing forward Simon Mills impressively scoring from a line out in the KCS 22 that Cobham had won from a penalty to extend the lead. Cobham continued to attack deep in the KCS half, and with Matt Hahn and Billy Davison so strong as lineout jumpers, Cobham were guaranteed possession at their every throw in. Just before half time Jack Davison scored from a lineout close to the KCS line and winger Laurence Bendall then scored Cobham's fifth try, finishing off the move involving most of the side to take the Cobham lead to 37 points.

At the start of the second half Cobham moved right down to the KCS line in a good team move and a solid well organised drive over the KCS line by the pack resulted in a try for hooker Mark Bennett. There were a number of team changes, Martin Green and Will Sealing coming on as replacements and after Gavin Hart appeared for the first time this season he latched on to a pass from the pacey Jack Davison and scored an excellent try, David MacCallum converting. Having scored over fifty points Cobham were now totally in control with the forwards making significant surges and the three-quarters demonstrating good speed and skill.

Cobham made good ground at every opportunity and after winger Martin Green had sprinted at pace creating space in midfield, his chip ahead was followed up with vigour by J P O'Reilly and the scrum half scored his second try. Cobham were penalised for a high tackle but defended well against a good attack by KCS and then the home side responded well with another attack. Laurence Bendall ran down the wing at good pace, was well supported by Tim Green to carry on the advance, and skipper Billy Davison finished off the move diving over the line for his first try. He then scored a second try moments later following a surge in midfield from Gavin Hart to take the score over seventy. In the final minutes Cobham continued to attack and to give them credit KCS were still totally committed to defend at pace but could not prevent any further scores, Jack Davison scoring his second try and David MacCallum scoring another try finishing off a solid run in midfield from Tristan Lee.

The 84 point victory ensured that Cobham continue as top of the league but their opponents now become a bit tougher, starting with a fixture next week against London Cornish who were also promoted to this league at the end of last season. However given the way that Cobham have played this season the high level of performance is likely to be continued.

Cobham: N Sutton, J Campier (M Green), S Burton, T Green, L Bendall; D MacCallum, J P O'Reilly; T Lee, M Bennett, A Darroch-Warren (W Mealing), B Davison, M Hahn, S Mills, J Green (G Hart), J Davison

Report by Tony Maddocks

London Division 3 South West
Old Wimbledonians 0 Cobham 51
15 September 2007

Cobham play magnificently with six try victory

In their second match of the season, away to Old Wimbeldonians, Cobham continued their excellent performance in the London Three South West league with a good win by over fifty points.

There were a few changes to the side from last week, Nick Sutton returning to full back, Chris Perry playing at fly half and newcomer Tim Green making an impressive display at inside centre in his first match. With player/coach Billy Davison leading the way, the Cobham pack was exceptional throughout the match, demonstrating both solidity in the scrum and excellent performance in the lineout, and after the first two tries were scored, both by Mark Bennett either side of half time. The threequarters then showed their quality and pace, scoring another four tries in the second half with three tries from centre Tim Green and one from former captain Martin Green, playing on the wing, to put the result beyond doubt.

Old Wimbeldonians have a good side, strong in the pack and speedy in the threequarters and had some good attacking play, forcing Cobham to defend well, but the Cobham all round play was just too good for them and the points scored were a fair indication of the commanding Cobham performance.

Playing in excellent sunshine, the players needed all the fitness acquired in pre-season training and after Cobham had started with the kick-off, both sides performed at pace. Cobham were penalised at an early ruck and from the penalty Wimbledonians attacked hard in the Cobham half, but the solid Cobham defence prevented any score. Cobham then responded smartly, Nick Sutton attacked swiftly from full back and was well supported by Ben Pickett to make good ground and Wimbledonians conceded a penalty, Chris Perry succesfully kicking the ball over to give Cobham its opening points.

The Cobham pack started to move the ball forward powerfully, Jack Davison and Simon Mills creating good ground, and Chris Perry scored two more penalties as Wimbledonians found defence very difficult. Wimbledonians managed a good attack, creating space deep into the Cobham half but the Cobham defence was sound, winning the Wimbledonian's lineout at a crucial stage. Another good run by Nick Sutton took play deep into the opposition half and after Tim Green made good ground Cobham had a lineout close to the Wimbledonians line. Billy Davison won the lineout and the forwards combined well to advance the ruck over the try line with Mark Bennett able to score Cobham's first try, Chris Perry converting.

Wimbledonians raised their game at the start of the second half but were unable to score, despite being awarded a kickable penalty.

Cobham responded with a couple of good attacks and Chris Perry was able to successfully score two more penalties to further extend the Cobham lead. Cobham had yet another penalty, and from a lineout in the Wimbledonians 22 the forwards won the ball and drove over the line, Mark Bennett scoring his second try in almost identical fashion to the first to give Cobham a 27 point lead. The speed of the Cobham play became more impressive as the backs became more involved and after a good run, replacement Ben Creed took play within a metre of the line, inside centre Tim Green finishing the move with a good try.

Spencer Franks was forced to leave the field through injury but the experienced Kevin Jarvis was able to take his place and Cobham continued to play exceptionally well. The ball was moved across the Cobham threequarter line in the next move, Tim Green then cutting inside to create space and the centre found a gap, sprinting to the line to score an excellent try. Wimbledonians re-started at the kick-off but the ball went to Jack Davison who led the pack to drive 50 metres downfield and after a couple of pirouettes close to the line, Martin Green forced his way over for Cobham's fifth try. Cobham were now totally in control, and when the team next obtained some possession Jack Davison again was at the front of the move which went almost the entire length of the pitch and was finished off by Tim Green who sprinted over the line to score his third try.

The match finished with Wimbledonians on the attack but Cobham defended well and prevented the home side from scoring at all. Another excellent performance by Cobham in their second match of the season and this has set a good foundation for the rest of the season.

Cobham: N Sutton, M Green, S Burton, T Green, L Bendall ; C Perry, S Franks; T Lee, M Bennett, W Mealey, B Davison, B Pickett, S Mills, J Green, J Davison

Report by Tony Maddocks

London Division 3 South West
Cobham 44 Andover 12
8 September 2007

Cobham prove to be too strong for Andover with excellent team performance

Cobham started the 2007/8 league season in London Division 3 with an impressive win against the visitors.

Having been promoted last season after winning every game in the lower league, which was a phenonenal performance, Cobham expected to encounter tougher sides in Division 3 but were quickly into their stride early on, scoring two tries and two penalties in the first half to establish an excellent foundation for the result.

Billy Davison continues as captain and player/coach this season and in this match led from the from front with a phenomenal performance which inspired the team's excellent performance. The Cobham team against Andover comprised many of the players that were highly successful last season but a couple of new players J P O'Riley and David MacCallum were in the side, both scoring tries and demonstrating their skill.

Cobham continued with the form of last season and in the second half added four more tries as the result of some well executed play to put the result beyond doubt. Andover were a good side, scoring two tries overall, one just before half time, and then a second near the end of the match, and only good defence at times from Cobham managed to preserve their lead. Overall this was a good start to the season by Cobham, and based on the performance of the first match there is every opportunity of another good season

At the start of the match Cobham were quickly into their stride, and Andover were soon penalised at a scrum just inside their half, fly-half Dave MacCallum scoring an excellent penalty to give Cobham the early lead. Alton responded with an attack but good Cobham defence kept them out, allowing Cobham to respond with vigour forcing another penalty. Spencer Franks made a good touch find to the corner and Cobham won the lineout, with the forwards making a strong drive to the line and prop Will Mealin scored Cobham's first try.

Andover were keen to respond and attacked well, making good ground into the Cobham 22 but good defence, first by Jack Davison and then James Green removed the Andover pressure. Dave MacCallum scored a second penalty and Cobham kept up the pressure, forcing Andover to infringe and from the penalty Cobham had a lineout 10 metres from the Andover line. Billy Davison made an excellent lineout catch and the pack drove forward, Matt Malachi scoring Cobham's second try.

But Andover were still playing well and after winning their scrum got the ball to midfield where centre Sam Froggat made a break at pace in midfield outsprinting the Cobham defence to score a good try just before half time to reduce the Cobham lead to 16-5.

After the interval the game was very even with both sides trying hard to score, but despite some good moves both defences were solid. Andover became more confident and kept up a series of attacks but Cobham proved their exceptional skills when Dave MacCallum intercepted a pass between the Andover half backs just behind a scrum on the half way line, and sprinted in for a try under the posts, also scoring the conversion.

The pace of the Cobham threequarters now took control of the game, Richie Blackmore sprinting out of defence to advance play by over 50 metres and full back J P O'Reilly finished the move with style to score an excellent try. Andover attacked well and made good ground into the Cobham 22 with a good opportunity to score but the final pass was intercepted by Richie Blackmore and the speedy Cobham winger sprinted a full 60 metres to score under the posts. With only a few minutes left to go, Andover demonstrated their talent with a try from a scrum drive over the Cobham line tomake the score 37-12, but Cobham responded well and scored the final try of the match, J P O'Reilly finishing off a very good Cobham attack where most of the side were in good support.

Cobham: J P O'Reilly, K Jarvis, M Green, S Burton, R Blackmore; D MacCallum, S Franks; T Lee, M Malachi, W Mealin, B Davison, M Hahn, S Mills, J Green, J Davison

Report by Tony Maddocks

Gavin Hart continues his blog about life for a Cobham boy playing rugby down under...

July 2007

Hi Guys!

Only a few weeks to go until the end of the season and that 27 hour plane journey home. Well with a little stop off in the South Island, looking for Frodo and his ring. The time has flown past and before I know it I'll be back in that cold miserable place you all call home, trying to find a job and wondering why I hadn't stayed in New Zealand. Ok I'll say it, I'm missing you all and that's why I'm coming home. That will last all of two weeks! I also can't have Cobham winning another league season without me and Spencer giving me grief about it.

Ok what has happened in the last couple of weeks? I've moved address for about the 4th time since arriving, into a very pleasant house in a lovely suburb of Auckland, New Market. Gone are the Islanders to be replaced by two weed smoking white boys. Don't worry Mum I know what your thinking and I'll set your mind at ease and let you know I'm only passive smoking. With three guys around the house is surprisingly clean? We're only in week one we'll see how long that lasts!

Last week we lost only our second game of the season to the second placed team, Ponsonby knocking ourselves off the top spot. The game finished 11-8 with us having at least 70% possession and missing four kicks at goal. Gavin has since stepped forward for kicking duties and is for once being taken seriously!!! Why do people think that because your a forward you can't kick??? This weekend we played Pakuranga (not sure if that is the correct spelling) and won 11-0 on a pitch that looked more like a world war one battle ground, it was so muddy. Brought back found memories of home! I'm still trying to pick dirt out of my finger nails, ears and other body parts.

Last night we all went to watch The All Blacks play the Aussies at Eden park on a miserable night in Auckland. This was one game I wished I had paid that little bit extra to have a covered set. The flood lights went on and the heavens opened. Myself and hundreds of others huddled together like penguins trying to keep warm. We got soaked! Underwear, shoes, socks, the lot! That put an end to our night out on the town. Right guys I'll Catch you all next time.

Gavin

une 2007 - Half Way There!

Hey Guys!

I can't believe I've been in New Zealand for over three months, the time has flown past with out me realizing. Wow the last few weeks have had more ups and downs than a roller coaster! For anyone that spends a great length of time away from home will find that homesickness hits at about the three month mark. You start to miss your mum's cooking, friends, and nights in with the girlfriend (missing my baby Rachel), but you never miss England. Home is where the heart is as they say. Does everyone want to move over?

Forget that dull, wet and miserable place and come and join me! Where else can you ski and surf in the same day??...or as the kiwi's would put it, catch a snapper (that's a fish for you uneducated people), go deer hunting, oh and my favourite, catch a wild pig.......complete with hunting knife and your trusty bare hands. I've been told that people have sustained awful injuries and in some cases death. Death????

I apologize for the lack of emails over the past few weeks but it started with me injuring my back while getting off the sofa. Please don't ask! I'm trying to figure that one out myself! Months of hard contact playing rugby and Gavin's major injury is sustained getting up off the sofa? How? Maybe it was that unseasonable amount of alcohol consumed the night before? Anyway I missed two weeks of training and one game. Since then I've been hitting the gym hard and my body weight has gone up and my fat percentage is on the way down. Hope Rachel likes it!

This week we played against Marist, our banana team in the first round and won 26 to 13 in conditions best suited to England. Escaped with only minor injuries this week but I still seem to have a target painted all over me saying 'white European please high tackle me'. Oh and last week one player loved me so much that he tried to bite my thumb off for a souvenir. I haven't realized that cannibalism had become legal? I'll need to check that one. For all you stats boys back home get your rule books out and let me know before next weeks game. Let's just say there were no shaking of the hands after that one!

Right Guys I'll leave it there. Hope your keeping safe and well! And remember don't drink and drive!...That was aimed at Spencer by the way!

Cheers
Gavin

23rd April 07.
Week Five

Just moved out of my second house into hopefully my permanent address while I'm here. Gone are the beautiful views across the Auckland bay....no more eating breakfast on the balcony soaking up the sun....looking down on the poor middle classes from my house on the hill. Oh well I guess it couldn't last forever.

My new residence is about a 20 minutes drive from downtown Auckland in a place called Hillsborugh which is like going from Beckham's house and moving into Brixton. Oh well at least I'm not paying for rent.

My new Flatties are two couples. Couple number one Si and Mel (Mel's the guy and Si's the lady) and couple number two Nadine and Tevita. Except for a Nads and me we are a very island family! Tevita plays rugby league and is on the books for the Warriors and Mel is a Wannabee body builder. If anything kicks off I'm definitely not getting in the way of these two! They've made me feel very welcome and I've already got into the islander way of things by wearing a Lavalava which is sort of a wrap around bed sheet and which is standard dress around the house and nipping out to the shops for some milk. I will have photos for all in a day or two and you can have a laugh at the guy wearing the dres.

Last weekend we played Waitakarie and I got my first start at number 8 against a very large team (apparently the Islanders eat large amounts of a potato like food which contains a natural steroid...I'm now cramming my face full of them!!) where the number 10 could have played in the front row. As per usual the 'white' boys come off second around the contact area but with a little brain power we realise that someone has been hitting KFC too hard and we can just run round them. The game ends 13 to 7 to us but not without a few injuries and their full back getting a 12 week ban for kicking one of our guys in the head like a soccer ball. Sorry I meant football...

Until next time Guys. Hope you're enjoying the summer weather over there because you know it won't last!
Gavin

9th April 07.
Weeks Three & Four

I've been rushing around job hunting and last week had a job interview at Les Mills gym, which is the premiere gym in New Zealand bringing to an end my days as a tourist sleeping in till late, long sunny days and getting away with wearing flip flops 24/7.

Les Mills is the type of place where you have to have a six pack to get in through the door, and I don't mean beer. They have over 10,000 members so you can guess the size of the place, and they have 3 studios each can house up to 300 people taking part in a class. I have the pictures to prove it!!! All the major athletes come here to train and get tested.

My second shift was opening up the gym at 5.00am, getting myself up at 4.30. The gym opened at 5.30 with ONLY 50 people waiting outside!!! By 6 it was packed!! Classes start at 6.30!! 2,000 people working out at the same time!! The river club, back in England opens at 6.30 with only 4 people In the gym till 8 and here I am with 2,000 Kiwis and I'm not talking about maybe a gentle cycle, absolutely going for it. THESE PEOPLE ARE MAD!!!!!!

Anyway back to rugby as that's what I'm here for. I got the nod to start against Marist, who were last year's league champions, starting at blind side. We turned up to 25 degree heat and came up against a very large Marist side packed with Islanders and one local complete with full on ginger hair. We kicked off in a game which turned into the most physical game I've ever played in, with fists being thrown on the odd occasion. We went down two early tries from a back line that could have played in the front but sadly with gas to burn. We pulled the game back in the second half but after 15 minutes being camped on their line, we lost by 2 points leaving the game at 15 points to 17. I fell asleep on the sofa that night with bruises all over my body.

Well that brings my week to a close. If you want to see all my photos I have logged in at www.ringo.com and I'm gradually loading on all my pictures of my travels in NZ. My page is open to everyone to see so get logged on and then put in a search for my name.
Enjoy!!!

30th March 07.
Week Two

They warned me that the weather was changeable here but I think we've had it all this week. The week started with our game against Takapuna on Saturday running out into 25 degree heat and losing a little over half my body weight in sweat in under 30 minutes, 2ft of water falling in the space of 36 hours. I woke up to find a new river had formed outside my bedroom window flowing down the middle of what was once our road.

Saturday's game was still a trial game so we played two halves against a mainly, unexpected, white team who weren't up to the physicality of Grammer (Rugby Club). I think we ran in about five tries against a weak defence, in what was a very scrappy game. I started the game playing on the flank but it wasn't long before the number 8 shirt came beckoning and I played the majority of the game at the back of the scrum. Maybe I'm destined to play the rest of my days there???

Sunday saw me travelling up to the North shore with Vince (ex Cob) to try my hand at farming and to meet another ex Cob Pricey. I found myself herding cattle, on my day off, and watching the six month calves be de-horned and tagged. If I knew this was what we'd be doing I wouldn't have worn my brand new white trainers, which ended up covered in blood from a cow with blood spurting from it's ears. Good day out but not for the fainthearted.

Wednesday my friend Eugene took me over to the west coast of NZ to visit his brother in a place called Piha. Piha is paradise for anyone who enjoys beautiful views and even better surf!!! Piha is a place in the middle of nowhere surrounded by steep mountains covered in thick jungle like trees. Eugene's brother owns a place looking out over the beach, where he can wake up every morning and check out the surf from his bedroom window....what a life!!!

A retired lawyer who now travels the world taking part in Over 50's surf comps. He took me out surfing in the bay lending me one of his many boards. My thinking was come on grandad lets see what you've got!!!.......I got my arse kicked and was sent home packing to the words 'don't worry we all have our off days'.

Have fun and good luck to the first team for this Saturday.
Gavin

Sat 24th March 07. Week One

Hello from sunny Auckland!!! The weather here is a cool 21 degrees, bright and sunny with a slight westerly breeze. Just looking out from my newly aquired accommodation, looking out over the harbour and down town Auckland.

Hopefully this is my first of many weekly reports from the city of sails. Each week i will be uploading you my photos of my adventures through the beautiful countryside of NZ, dicovering new species for scientific research both on and off the rugby field.

My week started with my sad departure from Cobham rugby ground after posting another 50 points and promoting ourselves to divison 3. With only a few tears shead I was boarding the plane bound for NZ. After bearing the awful food, no leg and elbow room (due to being sat next to two islanders both over 100kgs), and watching the sun rise and set god knows how many times, my 27 hour flight came to an end. TO BE MEET BY NO ONE! Someone got their wires crossed and told the other crowd the wrong time...thank you Tony!

I was eventually meet by one of Grammer Carltons board members, Eugene, who took me for a wirlwind tour of Auckland. A bit too much to take in seeing as I'd only managed 3 hours sleep in the last 27.

My new temporary accomodation isn't too bad, just your normal run of the mill house overlooking the habour. Walk in wardrobe.....flat screen....touch screen built into the wall (controls the tv, choice of radio stations and alarm clock). The guy next door is the third richest man in NZ, but hey I'm hoping the conversion rate from pounds to dollars will put me somewhere in the top 10?

Eugene is my newly aquired friend who see it as his duty to take me to every museum in NZ within 24 hours of arriving. I arrive in style to the rugby ground on tuesday decked out in my personal top of the range BMW with my aide driving. I know Prince Andrew is in the country, and I'm beginning to think they picked up the wrong guy at the airport.

Training is a wake up call when some islander takes it as his duty to say hello to the new guy. It was a bruising but friendly encounter. The guys are friendly and I'm soon introducing myself round forgetting names as I go. There are too many long names around here. Out of the club I would say only 15% are what I'd say white european and the rest are made up by islanders and maori.

Wednesday sees me climbing up the Auckland sky tower and checking out the casino. Of course Eugene isn't allowing me to pay for anything so I eventually find his his weakness, the Latte. I buy him a latte where ever we go and it makes me feel a little bit better.

Thursday is a lazy day for me soaking up a bit of sun before training. I find out I've been picked for the senior ones against Taranaqi.

Well thats it for this week I'll be back next week with more news from NZ. If you want to get in touch with me my email is: gavin7uk@yahoo.com.