This was an import game for both teams as they started the day in adjacent positions in the league with Chingford immediately above CS.
In poor conditions Chingford played with the wind and driving rain on their backs in the first half and were able on several occasions to pin the CS Stags side down in their own half, but the CS Stags defence was resilient and matched the Chingford side man-for-man. A half time score of 5 – 0 never looked to be a sufficient return for the home side from the one-sided opportunity with which the relentless driving wind and rain presented them. The home side started well and used a penalty to take play into the corner but made nothing of the opportunity. After 10 minutes CS conquered the rain and had their own period of play in the opposition half. However, from a line out Chingford made an interception and looked like they would score the first try but a text book cover tackle by right wing Conan Osborne prevented the score. On 14 minutes Chingford used another penalty to take play deep into CS territory and then when awarded a further penalty took a scrum five metres from the line which they drove over for a try. 5 – 0.

From CS pressure two penalties were awarded. CS kicked the first for a line out 22 metres out and the for the second a quick tap was taken by hooker Josh Forrester. It looked very promising but the CS fly half was adjudged to be holding on to the ball in the tackle. Chingford cleared their lines and 5 – 0 was the half time score.

CS started the second half by demonstrating how to play the conditions with several balls lofted long and high into the atmosphere for the CS speedsters, perceived to hold the advantage, to chase. It was CS Stags who were therefore the first on the scoreboard in the second half. With only 7 minutes of the second half on the clock CS following a long testing kick had the benefit of a line out in Chingford territory. Josh Forrester found his man. The ball was quickly worked to the backs and fly half for the day Liam Cleary stepped and made a break. When stopped he found left wing Zac Stamp on his shoulder who scored under the posts. Centre Tom Hodgson converted 5 -7. Play had barely resumed when CS were awarded a penalty 29 metres from goal, which Hodgson exquisitely stroked over. 5 – 10. CS continued to use the conditions to keep play at the far end where three more penalties were all kicked by Hodgson. 5 – 19. During the final moments of the game a Chingford substitute was injured in the tackle. It was believed to be a broken leg and ankle injury and all at CS wish the player well and a speedy and full recovery.

The result has moved CS above Chingford in the London Premier league into 7th position and just into the top half. On Saturday 20th October, following a League rest week, CS will return to Dukes Meadows home, for the first time this season, having played five of their six matches at the oppositions ground and one at Rosslyn Park. It will be a welcome return to their home ground where last year they won all but one of their league matches. The match will be preceded by a reunion luncheon, all are welcome.