Apologies for the lateness, but here is a match report of the pre-season friendly against Barnes RFC in early August, part of the build-up to the new season that also included a triangular 15 a side tournament hosted by Eton Manor RFC on 17th August, which included ourselves and Sidcup RFC. George Butler has written this report, and going forward, match report responsibility will see more exposure by the players writing these up.

For our first pre-season run around welcomed Barnes RFC to Chiswick rugby club on a sunny Friday evening, kicking off at 8pm, playing 3 25 minute 3rds. So far, we have had a great pre-season welcoming record numbers of 40+ lads at training.
The Stags started fast with some repetitive plays into the opposition's 22, and eventually relentless pressure led to a 5m driving maul try from Ricky Hollamby. Converted by new fly half Ollie Kynge, 7-0. Despite some big tackles from the Stags back row faithful led by Sam Miller, Barnes responded with a maul try themselves, converted 7-7. In quick succession after some good attack from Barnes they managed to bag themselves another try, converted. Score 14-7 to Barnes at the end of the first third.
The stags started the second third strongly with some brilliant set piece drills, defensive efforts, and phase play. We managed to pin Barnes in the corner and after a couple of efforts went over for our second maul try of the match this time by fan favourite Morgan Davies. Converted again by Ollie Kynge 14-14. Unfortunately, we lost Ollie Brown who went off with a broken arm midway through the 2nd 25 minute stint – we wish you all the best with the recovery Ollie. Barnes responded with another maul try themselves, conversion missed, Barnes up 19-14. End of second third.
The boys seemingly blowing a little, led to a fourth Barnes try after a nice break through the middle. Conversion made, Barnes 26 - Stags 14. Stags debutant Adam Clarke charged over after some great pressure in the Barnes 22, and brilliant structured phase play by the Stags. A magical 15-20 metre pass out wide from Al McKenzie assisting, conversion made by Ollie Kynge. Despite Stags' piling on the pressure towards the final whistle, again camped in the Barnes half flowing through phases, we were unable to capitalise, leading to a final score Barnes 26 - 21 CS Stags.
A note from head coach Oli Bryant: Friday night was a great opportunity to get our first hit out of the season. It was great to see some new faces showcase their ability, and see returning players pick straight back up from where they left off last season. The coaching team are pleased with how it went, plenty to work on as we approach the first league game in September but lots to be positive about.