Another injury-hit game resulted in another defeat.

DAN OUTRAM, the side's ever present, fly half was ruled out, half an hour before kick-off, with a cracked rib and CARL HIRZINGER was unable to make it to the game. This left the team relying on the generosity of the opposition to provide players to make it 15 a side.

Despite these difficulties, BE started by far the brighter of the two teams and were 7-0 up after strong play allowed RALPH LANE to crash through a number of tackles. However, Tabard levelled the scores shortly afterwards when weak BE tackling allowed them to race away from 60 metres out. Both tries were converted. The game then settled into an even contest, characterised by extremely competitive rucking and a number of penalties going the way of BE. After about 20 minutes, SAM FERGUSON, returning from a serious knee injury, was forced to go off with a serious looking arm injury, leaving BE down to 14 men. Despite this, Tabard managed only one more score before half time to make it 7-12 at the break but not before they were further hampered by the loss of TOM STUBBS who was concussed after a big tackle on the Tabard line.

In the second half, the numerical advantage started to tell and Tabard were able to run in more tries as overlaps appeared wide ou and gaps appeared in midfield. However, to BE's credit, they did not let their heads drop and the last 10 minutes were spent with Tabard having to defend resolutely. Although the final score may look a bit one-sided, the entire side can be proud with another strong defensive effort in very trying circumstances. CHRIS WHITE, JAMES DALLAS and ROD MACLENNAN were especially noteworthy for their efforts.

Another major positive was the four debutants all had strong games and will go on to contribute strongly for the Club over the course of the season, hopefully. What is needed, now, is for the highly talented group of individuals to come together and play more as a team to unlock the huge potential throughout the side.

Unfortunately, your correspondent, had to leave the ground quickly after the game and so cannot inform you on the post-match dinner. He has no doubt that it was very well received. Thanks should also be given to Tabard and their coaches for providing players so that the game could be as competitive as possible.

This Saturday, we are at Old Albansians. 3pm kick-off.

EM