On the positive front, we created a number of scoring chances both thorough our own play and through our defence, but regrettably we did not take any of them. On four occasions (high tackles on Ugo Monye and Andy Dunne, as well as two other penalty offences) there was not much we could have done about this, but on some of the other occasions it was our own execution that let us down.

The two main areas of concern were the lineout and our ball retention. We turned the ball over some 16 times during last Saturday's game and if you do that in the Zurich Premiership then you are going to lose. Over the last few years our games with London Irish have never seen attractive free flowing rugby, but we lost last weekend through our own mistakes and that is very disappointing.

On Monday evening (6th September) we all received a boost of confidence when our Second XV travelled to Old Albanians to face Saracens in the Zurich A League and came away with a 57-19 victory. A team that finished with 12 players under the age of 21 played very well both in attack and defence, and played some of the rugby that we have been practicing during our pre-season preparations. This coming Monday evening (13th September) the Second XV face Gloucester in the Zurich A League at the Stoop, kick-off 7.30pm.

This Saturday (11th September) we have our first home game of the season against Northampton Saints and the opening of the new North stand. Northampton had an excellent win at home to Bath last weekend and are many peoples bet to win the Zurich Premiership this season.

The only injury we picked up last weekend was to Tani Fuga, who strained knee ligaments very early in the game. Whilst the injury has improved, Tani will not be involved this weekend, so James Hayter will start in the number two shirt.

The other changes are in the back row where Mamma Molitika will start at number six, Luke Sherriff will play at open side and Andre Vos will move into the number eight shirt. Coming back from injury and on the bench are Tony Diprose and George Harder.

The Zurich Premiership is a very tough league and unless you play to within 5% of your optimum performance each week then you will struggle. This Saturday, against very strong opponents, we have the opportunity to put in a performance of a more acceptable standard than last week.

Playing at the Stoop these days is always a tremendous occasion; lets hope that on Saturday we can ensure it remains so for everyone involved, players and supporters alike.