It has been well reported that Dean (Richards) and the players were far from happy with the performance; we turned the ball over far too often and did not play the way we had prepared. However, on the positive front we got the four try bonus point and did not concede a try.

Everyone was far happier with the A teams performance on Monday night (5th September) in beating London Wasps 31-13. We played with an intensity that was very pleasing to see and thoroughly deserved the win.

This coming Monday (12th September), the A team travel to Old Albanians where they take on Saracens, kick-off 7.30pm. The team for this fixture will be announced on Monday.

This weekend (Saturday 10th September) we travel to Otley for what will be a very tough assignment at Cross Green. Otley lost just two games at home last season and have finished fifth in National Division One two years in a row. They have a very strong front five and, having secured a draw against Bedford last weekend, they will be very keen to improve upon that result on Saturday. In addition to a strong front five, Otley have two very experienced half backs in Simon Binns and Dave Scully, who will make sure that they play as much of the game as possible in our half of the pitch.

On the injury front, Mike Worsley will return to action this weekend after pulling out of England's Churchill Cup tour at the end of May. Also starting will be Will Greenwood, who will be replacing Tom Williams (foot injury), with Gavin Duffy starting at full back.

The support we received last weekend at Sharmans Cross Road was absolutely fantastic. I am not sure I have ever heard such noise at any NEC Harlequins away game over the last five years - it almost made it feel like a home game! It would be fantastic if you could replicate that support this Saturday.

It remains early days in the 2005/06 National Division One season and we still have a lot to learn about our opponents as the season goes on. However, we are well aware that away at Otley is one of many stiff examinations that we will face, but at the same time it is a game that we are all looking forward to.

I look forward to seeing you all at Cross Green on Saturday afternoon.