The Warlingham second team took to the pitch in Crawley to face a local opposition we hadn't played for a number of years - St Francis RFC writes Alex Glover.

A wonderful set of gentlemen, and the game was played in really good spirits with everybody enjoying themselves. The final score was 41-46, an end-to-end game with tries coming from all parts of the pitch. Player of the Match was Bruce Roberts for his excellent showing in attack and defence.

The team was put together throughout the week, with players crying out for a game of running rugby in the sunshine. We were delighted to welcome two Academy boys, Aryan Kandala and Rufus Leader, both stars of the show with fast running rugby, running rings around the opposition and leading the charge, elder statesman in tow.

With no referee available - club aficionado Scott Toomey took up the whistle to ensure game on - thank you Scott!

St Francis didn't have a full complement, so we lent them the odd player: Adam Downie-Keen, Ian Anderson and Alex Glover all crossed over to help out. But the game stayed in really good spirits, sun shining, ball sprayed from side to side.

Standout performances: Bruce Roberts was excellent in attack and defence, at one point tipping Alex Glover into a somersault while he was playing for the opposition. The return of stalwart John Dowling, just about approaching Vets age, featured his trademark tackles and strong runs.

Elsewhere, strong showings from the Elliot Jones and Sam Jones brother combination, and fast-flowing rugby with Lewis Hazeldine, Ollie Reynoldson, Ian Anderson, Russ Joao and Cedric Bunel and the rest of the back line really taking it to them.

Up front, Tom Gowers and Simon Townsend, Mike Kennedy and Joe Kelly leading a very strong forward outfit with Tom bringing a new dimension to his game through his conversions and other kicks.

Tries from electric academy boy Rufus and Aryan led the charge, supported by Kelly, Glover and more.

All round, top game, top opposition, and a lovely day for running rugby. Everyone in good spirits. Warlingham seems to be the only second team putting out regular squads week in, week out at the moment, so home games can be a luxury as we hunt for opposition wherever we can. Alongside the first team win, two really strong wins back at the club, and right now, the club is in a very strong place.

All photos: Cerys Qureshi - see more here