Rugby 1st XV
(1971-72)

The 1971-72 season will be remembered primarily for the erratic form of the 1st XV and the number of high scoring matches which the team contested.

It is difficult to pinpoint the reasons why greater success was not achieved. Despite a good team spirit throughout the season, an apparent lack of self-confidence often manifested itself. The final tally of eight victories was no mean achievement, considering the strength of the fixture list, but the team failed to win any of the stronger'' fixtures and went down embarrassingly heavily at the hands of Hampton G. S. and St. Benedicts (as readers of the 'Daily Telegraph'' will testify!)

On the merit side, however, commendable performances were recorded against Reigate G.S. (lost 23-10) and Llanelli (lost 8-3), and the attacking flair of the side came to the fore in victories over St. Ignatius (44-10) and Broxbourne (41-0), admittedly much weaker sides.

Mention in this respect must go to C. Elias whose strong running and positive approach, coupled with the tactical wiles of C. Szelewski, resulted in many fine tries. C. Szelewski is to be further congratulated upon his achievements in representative rugby, being selected for the South and South-East England XV. D. Crombie proved himself to be a consistent full-back in defence, and deadly with his boot.

As in previous seasons a significant role was played by less experienced boys, notably J. Hall, S. Moss, P. Johnstone, M. Huddleston and B. Nash, who often shared the determination that more seasoned players lacked. Allied with the strength and determination of players such as G. Harding, R. Plowman, D. Hughes, S. Papworth, and A. Szelewski, they should form the nucleus of a strong side for next season and future years.

I would also like to mention the effort put into the side by the veterans' of the team namely M. Barber, G. Briggs, A. Long, G. Peters and S. Pearson who could always be counted upon to give their full support throughout

Finally I would like to think that the younger players have learned from the mistakes of their predecessors and that, strengthened with the vociferous determination with which they will be encouraged forward by Mr. Gibson, they will strive to greater success in the future.

S. Martin - M6A.