CHAIRMANS BLOG

Monday 21st May - 14:13

AT LAST some decent weather. It looks good throughout the week so get your shorts on and get out in the garden. Summer will be finished by next week.

Touch rugby is on Thursday as always and with the forecast being nice and dry and warm there are no excuses.

Not much in the news at the moment. The Euro is hovering about 1.24 which is not bad. Not great but better than it has been.

The torch is on its way around the country but it appears it has gone out several times already. Must be a French torch; only works when it feels like it.

The play-off final is on Saturday. Should be a good game. Leicester will edge it.

I see that despite Welsh rugby being on a high with the World Cup and 6 Nations performances the player and coaches exodus continues. It looks as if Scarlets coach Nigel Davies is heading for Gloucester. This alongside the steady flow of players such as Gethin Jenkins heading to France.

My final comment is about Fernando Torres. He is unhappy about how he has been treated at Chelsea. Well Fernando, look at it this way; you were bought for £50m and are paid an obscene amount of money to score goals. During a significant part of the season you were complete and utter rubbish and couldn't hit a barn door from 5 paces. Your passing was awful and your support play non-existent. Guess what happened? You were dropped. That is not being treated poorly, as Esther would say: 'that's life'

Sunday 20th May - 11:52

If nothing else is consistent in this world the weather certainly is. Yet another changeable day; one minute it is raining, the next the sun is out. One minute it is warm, the next it is bitterly cold. So consistent by constantly being inconsistent. As the weather forecasters don't seem to be able to tell us what yesterday's weather was it makes decision making on matters such as boot fairs impossible. Yesterday the forecast meant we could go ahead. This morning it was raining and a decision to call off was made at 07:30 when just 2 people had turned up. Subsequently a number of people turned up later when the weather improved. We have learnt a lot from this and will now only cancel ON THE DAY after 09:30 regardless of the conditions.

The club apologises to anyone inconvenienced by our actions.

On a brighter note what a day of sport yesterday. You couldn't help but be gripped by the Championship play-off. Well done The Hammers.

Then what a cracking Heineken Cup Final. Yes I know I predicted an Ulster win but I do also work for the Met Office so forecasts aren't my strong point. Leinster were just outstanding. Every facet of their game was on song. Sean O'Brien deservedly man of the match but I thought Rob Kearney was excellent at the back and Sexton at 10 controlled the patterns of play with skill and precision.

The dessert after the main course was equally delicious. What a Champions League Final. The game itself lacked skill at times but this was more than made up for by the nail biting tension. I am not a fan of Drogba normally but yesterday he stood out as the man of the moment by a long way. A splendid day of sport.

I see the RFU have seen sense and simplified the Championship play-off system. I also see that next seasons fixtures for the London leagues are delayed due to 'disputes'. I still can't work out how Uckfield are not being relegated UNLESS Old-Midwhitgifians are going into London SW3 vs SE3. Answers on a postcard please.

Did anyone spot the fact that Chris Pantrey played for Toulon Friday night. Think about it and let me know how.

Saturday 19th May - 09:25

What a day of sport ahead. The Championship play-off, The Champions League Final and the big one; The Heineken Cup Final. I hope any one of them is better than that turgid fare of last night. I expected a cracker and got a cracker; a tasteless, dry, bland, cheese cracker. What a terrible advert for French rugby. There was no ambition, skill levels were poor and execution through the phases was non-existent.

It is difficult to find a highlight so let me mention two 'lowlights'. Carl Hayman should have seen red. Barnes bottled it (in an otherwise solid performance) and Yashvili should have had yellow. Much has been said about the way rugby is leading the way with technology and the integrated use of the officials. Well let's be clear: they missed these in a spectacularly embarrasing way.

In club news touch rugby was very good last Thursday. Well done Passy for organising. From now until further notice PLEASE keep off the A pitch. Andrew has started the treatments which include chemical fertilizers.

We will soon be sending out the 'calling notice' for the AGM. It would be good to have a big attendance so you can hear how we are doing, the direction we want to take, and the pitfalls ahead of us, AND OF COURSE for you to have your say.

Elsewhere I was delighted to see that as soon as the new French President was sworn in he got on a plane to meet his new boss; Angela Merkel.

Holidays in Europe, as predicted here ;-), are getting cheaper.

The torch has arrived so the countdown to the 'greatest show on earth' is well underway. It is still not too late to volunteer. Contact Michelle at Wealden DC

The plans for the Queen's jubilee are slowly being revealed.

The weather is still sh......................................

Thursday 17th May - 17:00

Just back from London. A rare international trip for me as the furthest I get to go now is the club. I took time to read that organ of truth the Daily Mail. As the guys from Star Trek would say; 'truth; but not as we would know it'. Anyway there was an interesting piece on Section 5 of the Public Order Act (or something like that) which is highlighting how our freedom of speech is being eroded. What this may mean is I might have to stop having a go at Bob Crow and Len McClusky. So what I have decided to do is give them pen names. Bob will become Bob Crow, yes I think he is a trouble maker and Len will become Len Mcluskey, here is another trouble maker. Of course, always in my very humble opinion.

One thing I do want to say is the trains were spot on time, very clean and the staff very efficient. As was the Underground, and their staff.

Why am writing this drivel? Well because now our rugby has finished there isn't a great to deal to write about.

I see Dylan is recalled for the Barbarians game, which seems to indicate he will be in the starting line for the 1st SA test.

Looking forward to the Amlin and Heineken Cup finals. The all French encounter should be a cracker with Johnny strutting his stuff. I take Toulon to win. In the Heineken I go for Ulster. They have been the surprise package and have a well balanced and dynamic side.

In other sport ................... do you know what....................... I can't be bothered really. Terry's in, Rio's out. Kenny's gone. The 1st test has started and Murray will go out in the semis. Not much more to be said really.

Tuesday 15th May - 16:08

The news is all about the new French President, the Euro crisis and the Greeks but my story of the day is '£11,000 pounds worth of sex toys stolen in Stourport on Severn'. It must have been a put up job.

The other story that caught my eye was the Sainsbury toilet siege in Brighton. You can just imagine it can't you: 'come out with your hands up................... and make sure you've washed them first!' 

England soon depart for South Africa for their tour. I am pleased to advise the club will be open for all the games except the 23rd June test. We have a long standing party booking which starts at 4pm that day. This is a shame but we must honour our bookings. Nearer the time I will advise of exact plans e.g. food will be or will not be available etc.

Good to see the French have released Hook and Philips for the Welsh summer tests and that Martin Williams will earn a 100th cap when Wales play the Barbarians.

I feel really sorry for Cornish Pirates who look a brilliant side who won't be promoted even if they win the play-off vs London Welsh. The council are refusing to support a new stadium.

Some charity news - get on line and see how young Hamish Greenwood is doing with his pan-USA bike challenge. Stevie Palmer is also doing a charity run for Cancer Research. Sandy has the details. Please give generously.

Monday 14th May - 16:05

Sorry for the late blog today but have been busy. Had stuff to do at the club - surprise, surprise!!! but also some personal matters to attend to.

As promised the minis take centre stage today. I don't know how Steve Hart does it but yet again he had contacted the right person and the sun shone brightly all day. An excellent turn out and another very well organised event. Two disappointments though; the PA system when tested at 10:30 worked perfectly then decided not to work at 13:00 when we really needed it; also I was going to welcome everyone and launch a competition for the minis. I didn't, as I got stuck behind the bar. SORRY for that.

The dads/ coaches beat the 3rd team in the annual pre-awards game. I imagine there will be a significant number of stiff legs and sore bodies today. It was clear however that some of the coaches could easily be playing for the 3rds or even the 2nds on a regular basis.

Thanks to the Lamplugh's for the hog and particular thanks to Jeremy Evans for organising the BBQ. Naturally Steve Hart deserves a huge amount of credit for organising the day so effectively and for opening up at 5am - yes 5am - for the hog to start roasting.

In sadder news........................

Sunday 13th May - 09:17

My head feels as if I've just done 12 rounds with Emir Kahn and my mouth feels as if I've been licking a camel's a.............. use your imagination.

What a FABULOUS night last night. I can't recall how many people said the best awards night ever.

The place looked great and the new round tables make a huge difference. MANY THANKS to all the generous table sponsors. The food was excellent as always and the atmosphere was superb.

Mark Rosier picked up the blue ribbond award of 1st XV player of the year. Most deservedly so too. I think the loudest cheer of the night went to Ian Geering when he was presented with the MISSING No 16 shirt. Too long a story to tell here but those in the know will understand and smile at this point.

Quite rightly Geoff D and Biggest were recognised for their contribution as was Ian Glen for his support. I had the pleasure and honour of recognising the work done by Eddie, Richard Lambert, Dave Clark, Simion Davies and Paul Gray in terms of the clubhouse. Needless to say Sandy & team and Andrew also got rousing applause for their work.

Sadly Nick couldn't make it but Bones was there to fly the flag. Colin F did a grand job as MC. Paul Adams, Mark Wilson, Faz and Coops also get a huge thank you for their work as captains throughout the season.

Its the minis who take centre stage today so you can read about them tomorrow.

During the coming summer months I will still blog focussing on the tours, the season ahead, Mr Bob Crow will get a mention as will Len McClusky.

Saturday 12th May - 09:37

An excellent do last night - 13's, 14's and 15's awards. John Gibb as host. Over a 130 people turned up to enjoy a delicious curry or a fantastic lasagne and reward the outstanding achievements of last season. Certainly the 14's were the star performers but both the 13's and 15's had great seasons. The latter picking up two 7's trophies.

Baloo was present and got the richly deserved applause for his efforts during the season.

Young Tom Gibb was awarded the presitigious Simon Munday award and for those who've been around long enough will know how important that award is to the club.

Once again a huge thanks to the parents, coaches and players for their contribution during the year. It is much appreciated.

In other news I hope those going to Quins for the play-off game have a good day

The England touring party to SA looks well balanced. The loss of Croft is the big one but with the resources available they should still put up a great showing.

The Ospreys stunned Munster with a tremdous performance last night to secure their place in the RaboDirectPro12 (a bl00dy ridiculous title) final.

Dean Richards is back. A good man who made a huge mistake. I am sure he will invigorate Newcastle, who for the good of the game have to be relegated. These RFU rules are dsigned to keep the little guy down where they think they should be. Why shouldn't London Welsh or Cornish Pirates be promoted.

Finally congratulations to the tanker drivers for agreeing a solution to their dispute. The country has to keep working and moving and their actions could have been very disruptive. Well done guys and gals.

Thursday 10th May - 08:52

When is it ever going to stop raining. That, combined with the public sector workers going on strike is going to make it a dreary day.

There is some important club news. Awards Dinner Saturday - there are a few tickets left on a first come, first served basis. Please contact Ian Geering urgently to book your place.

Touch is planned for tonight. Bring a snorkel and fins. You'll need them.

I see Danny Care is likley to be welcomed back into the England squad.

Don't forget if you are thinking of DIY now the season has finished think T&T in Crowborough. They will meet all your needs.

If you run a small business and are looking for printer / printing solutions then think Direct-Tec. They have a fantastic deal for you and the club can benefit too.

Final Score has a wide range of Crowborough kit and other rugby related accessories available. Now is a great time to buy as there are some excellent discounts available. The shop is open in Uckfield

Wednesday 9th May - 18:38

What a fantastic day. I couldn't drag myself away from the Queen's speech. Gripping stuff with all that pomp and ceremony and the heated debate in the chamber of the house. Cut and thrust, argument and counter-argument.

Joking of course.

Last night several of us from the club attended the annual Sussex RFU 'curry night' in Newick. Yet again we flew the CRFC flag proudly. There are times that my good friend Dave Pass does and says the wrong thing but last night I applauded his actions. Quite rightly Sussex RFU congratulated East Grinstead and Heathfield & Waldron u/17s on their great cup wins but failed to mention what a great season we had enjoyed but also what a fabulous season Pulborough had had. Passy put that right by toasting us and them. Well done Judge.

I add my congratulations to the H&W youngsters. They beat Shrewsbury 53 - 23.

I see Shaun Edwards is joining London Irish. A good acquisition.

Some good rugby this weekend with the playoffs taking centre stage.

Am I allowed to state the obvious? Yes? In which case is anyone sad to see the imminent extradition of a certain Abu Qatada from these shores.

Are you getting excited about the awards dinners this weekend. I am. Can I be really, really boring and remind attendees that drinking and driving is not on. Get a cab or walk.

Tuesday 8th May - 14:23

Just a couple of things today.

Under 14s - WELL DONE BOYS! Winning at the East Grinstead 7s on Sunday. A tremendous performance and this on top of winning the league and gaining promotion. Photos please.

England tour to South Africa. I will be sitting with Sandy and working out the practicalities of opening the club for all the tour games. The issue is that during the summer we have a lot of hires and access is required by the hiree. As the games kick off at 4pm and won't therefore finish until 6pm we need to be sure we can manage the clean up etc.

On the above point, and before anybody whinges, the hires are crucial to our cash flow during the summer.

I won't repeat all the feedback from Saturday here but we have received FOUR e:mails from the Sussex attendees on and one from Middlesex on what a fabulous job we did. A great ad for the 'new home of Sussex county rugby'.

Monday 7th May - 11:26

Well, what a few days. If I can put it bluntly; knac........ exhausting. Today's blog will read more like an acceptance speech at the Oscars but I have to thank an number of people for their support over the last few days.

Andrew Hunter for working what can only be described as a miracle to get the pitches playable for back to back county games.

Sandy for a tremendous job Friday; the big funeral we hosted, Friday night; Poggy jnr's party and Saturday; the county games. The food was excellent and the management of the events was superb. The team under Sandy's guidance were a credit to the club and I have already thanked them on our behalf.

John (Damper) Sayer, Steve Edwards, John Wilmshurst and Simon Reed for enduring an artic wind and the risk of frostbite by managing the parking, meeting & greeting and selling programmes on Saturday. Great effort guys.

Then of course Rick Howe, Eddie and Pratty for the preparation on Friday and Baloo and Ian Geering for helping tidy up on Sunday. I can't thank Geoff D enough for his continuing and generous support by printing the programmes

Finally thank you to those who turned up to watch, and the two counties for their recognition of the work we put into Saturday.

The new Level 9 format is a good idea and this was a good game. Shame the full county game was pretty ordinary at best but well done to Botts for earning his county cap.

I know relationships with East Grinstead have been a little strained recently but I congratulate them on a fantastic achievement in the winning of the RFU intermediate cup. A great result and a great advert for rugby in Sussex.

I haven't been able to find the Heathfield & Waldron's U/17 result vs Shrewsbury in the RFU U/17 Bowl Final just if anyone thought I was ignoring them.

I am looking forward to the Award Evenings and will be present at all of them. SORRY! ;-)

Sadly the weather conspired against us yesterday so all the great work Baloo did for the boot fair counted for nothing. The next one is in 2 weeks time. Come along to help. 6am is a great time to be at the club.

On Saturday, your club Executive launched a new award. This was an idea suggested by County President Peter Bailey and co sponsored by him. The award is Crowborough RFC's Lifetime Achievement. It will only be awarded in exceptional circumstances following exceptional input into the club (and the county) over a period of time. I was delighted to present the first such award, with the help of Peter Bailey, to Eddie Bridges. I don't need to tell you what he has contributed to the club and county over many, many years of continued service.

We will be making a follow up presentation at the AGM so all members have the chance to recognise his achievement. Over the next few weeks we will be making several other awards to recognise service and contribution to the club. Watch this space.

We will shortly be announcing the AGM dates. In preparation if you have any suggestions, ideas, want to be involved or want to criticise please contact me by mail, in confidence of course.

In other news I'll be carefully watching for the implications from the French and Greek elections. I love Europe for short holidays but it is so expensive right now. That might change as France is likely to 'fall out' with Germany, the Greeks are going to 'fall out' with everybody and Italy really don't care as long as Berlusconi can't keep 'it' in his trousers. The resulting collapse of the Euro will be great for holidays but possibly an issue for Britain (I think).

Friday 4th May - 14:14

It looks as if we're all set for the county game tomorrow. Eddie Bridges, Graeme Pratt and Rick Howe have helped get the pitch, the grounds and the club looking at its best. Sandy is ready to serve up a great buffet for the VIPs so rest assured we will yet again be the talk of the county.

It would be great to have a large crowd to cheer on Matt Botterman. Go on, its got to be better than Tunbridge wells shopping.

We had a great turnout last night for the touch, depsite the conditions. Everyone had a great time and some of the rugby was pretty good. Sadly the refereeing was pretty shoddy. I think that might have been me.

I am guessing a lot of you will come to the blog late today because you have been glued to the TV watching the local election results. Talk about 'how to lie with statistics'. I would like the politicians to explain to me how thay can claim anything other than; 'the country is totally apothetic to politics'. The turnout was only 32% for heavens sake. Now call me stupid but that means 68% of the voters couldn't be bothered to vote at all. This means that 68% of the voters don't care who runs the country. They'd prefer to be watching X Factor, Strictly Come Dancing and Crimewatch.

Why Crimewatch? For some of the voters they are hoping to see themselves on TV.

Don't forget, WEATHER PERMITTING, the boot fair on Sunday

Thursday 3rd May - 13:36

As promised some more memorabilia / photos have gone up in the club (mainly in the changing room corridor). We still have a lot to do on this front but we continue to be passionate about doing it right 1st time, every time, so speed is not crucial.

Matt Botterman will represent the county on Saturday, that is if the pitch can transform itself from a river tributory back to a rugby pitch, which is a great honour for him, his family and the club. I believe Matt Logan played last week which is an equally fantastic achievement.

Touch rugby is still on tonight but bring your bog-snorkeling gear.

It was upsetting to read of the tragic death of Aberdeen Shikoyi, captain of Kenya's women's rugby team. On the other hand it is great to read that Michael Lynagh is making good progress following his stroke, despite the serious loss of some of his eyesight.

I do like my football but what is it with the pink boots. You really have to be good to play in pink. Explains why Andy Carroll wears black ones.

Would like to repeat my plea for people to come forward and help with the Social Committee. Give me a call if you or anyone you know can help.

Finally don't forget to speak to Ian G or Sandy if you want to attend the awards dinners. Places are limited and going fast.

Tuesday 1st May - 15:24

Another day, another month. Where does the time go, that is what I want to know.

Anyway, a couple of updates

Mitch Malherbe has done some electrical work for us. His work will allow us to set up electrical equipment close to the 2nd XV pitch which is excellent for festivals etc. Thanks Mitch - great job.

I was at T&T today and caught Steve Edwards just before he left for Wembley. Perhaps he's going to be Roy Hodgons' assistant manager for England.

I see Wayne Smith is to stay in New Zealand with Waikato Chiefs. A shame for England as he is a great coach. As a consequence Mike Catt is elevated to the peerage and will take up the England role permanently, not just for the South African tour.

It is interesting the lengths people will go to find rugby to watch. John (Damper) Sayer and David Price went to watch Vigo vs Burgess Hill in the Kent v Sussex play off. Vigo won. Actually, not more to be said about that really.

Touch rugby on Thursday. Come on you vets, why don't you dust off the shorts, nail on some new studs, break out the jock strap and join in the fun. The bar is open afterwards, in fact it is open during for those who are that way inclined.

Monday 30th April - 10:00

Well what an unusual weekend; primarily because there was no club rugby to watch. Rick Howe ventured over to East Grinstead to watch them play Warlingham. EG won but Rick reckons we would be more than a match for Warlingham. Eddie Bridges went to see his son Steve in Chinnor so went along to see them narrowly defeat Tonbridge Judds in the play-off for promotion.

The saving grace was the two Heineken cup games plus the Amlin Challenge matches. Four great games and what results for Ulster and Leinster.

The 1st XV squad were at Goldsmiths on Saturday morning for some conditioning work. Goldsmiths are giving club members a discount when they join. This is a good deal for us and them. Go along and have a look at the new gym and if you want to join tell them you are a member of CRFC for your discount.

Thank you to all those who brought unwanted clothing along on Sunday. We could do with more so pop it up to the club next Sunday morning.

Remember there is the county game at the club on Saturday. Come along and watch.

After Saturday please keep off the A Pitch at all times until mid August. It is being treated.

In other news Danny Cipriani is on his way back. Not sure how to tell him won't be able to get into our 1s but he can have a run out with the 2s.

Friday 27th April - 10:54

Oh! How naive of me to think that after winning the Bob Rogers Cup against Heathfield & Waldron we might get the lions share of the sports coverage in The Courier. Yes the achievement of their under 17s is brilliant but.................

On the other hand the coverage for Hamish Greenwood's charity bike ride across the US is brilliant. This is a very good charity and worthy of some support. As I have said, there are times when we must think about how lucky we are are and how difficult others find life. 

Without turning this into a furniture blog the new round tables look great. I have already thanked Sandy for her contribution. Today it is only right that I thank most sincerely those people who have dug deep into their pockets or clubbed together to support this initiative. I am touched by the continuing generosity of our great membership. Not just in a financial sense but also with their time. THANK YOU.

Touch started last night, albeit on very muddy field. Good turn out. Thanks to Passy and Pratty for organising / refereeing.

Boot fairs - volunteers still needed please. Baloo has done a great job, lets not let him down.

In more mundane news I did chuckle when I read about Mr Bob Crow's latest antics. He had the temerity to say that the cleaners on the London Underground were being treated like dirt and shoud go on strike. Very good Bob. I guess the pigs on the farm are being treated like pieces of meat and the chickens in the hen house are being treated foully.

When our new Crows mascot arrives and we have the competition to name it, anyone who suggests we should call it 'Bob' Crow will not only be disqualified they might be ex-communicated.

I see Wayne Smith is in the frame to replace Andy Farrell. No real surprise there. The surprise might be Mike Catt being asked to be backs coach on the tour to SA. More on this to come.

Thursday 26th April - 10:31

Boy has it been wet. The pitches are all waterlogged. In fact waterlogged as badly as they were post the winter snow. Touch rugby will still start tonight on the minis training area despite the weather. 6:30 for 7pm start. Don't forget your £1.

Don't forget to bring your unwanted old clothes to the club on Sunday.

Congratulations to Sandy who has, 'in the blink of an eye', sourced 12 new round tables for lunches and events. Brilliant stuff.

It feels strange not to be building up to a big rugby weekend but I guess that is what it is going to be like for the next few months. This does allow us to draw breath and look at work that needs to be done around the club and within the way we work. One of the key things we need to re-establish is a social / events committee. This is desparately needed to help Sandy coordinate the programs we have in place and to organise events such as comedy nights. Part of the task will be to help individual age groups to set up and manage their own fund-raisers for new kit etc. If you would like to be involved please contact me soonest.

In the absence of club rugby there is the Heineken Cup to look forward. The Ulster v Edinburgh clash is intriguing and should be a cracker. Clermont Auvergne v Leinster on Sunday should also be worth watching.

Now I know this is a rugby club website but weren't the two Champions League games exciting. However I have to ask what planet John Terry is on and what a pathetic excuse for his actions. Sorry John but you are guilty as charged.

Reader Comment on Monday 23 April 2012 at 10:45

SIMON WILLLIAMS Says:

A great day yesterday as the boys did us proud and proved themselves a real credit to CRFC. Nick, Bones, Todger and the invaluable Ian G have done a fantastic job and we are now seeing the fruits of their hard work. As ever the supporters were fabulous and really helped to motivate the team yet again to a deserving victory. I can't wait for next season!

Reader Comment on Thursday 29 March 2012 at 10:50

MICKY BELL Says:

Graham , Congratulations to all in gaining promotion and so aptly in our 75th year. I look forward to joining you over Easter and celebrating this season with old friends from both sides of the channel. Regards Micky

Reader Comment on Tuesday 13 March 2012 at 16:02

JEREMY EVANS Says:

Graham, your comments about the Mini Festival are nearly spot on ! It was a superb event and all credit to all involved. I'm sure the under 7s were good but my under 8s made it into the final only to lose to a superb Lewes team.

Reader Comment on Monday 12 March 2012 at 12:19

SIMON WILLLIAMS Says:

The Colts were superb on Sunday, outplaying ther markedly larger opponents in just about every facet of the game. Commitment, skill levels and fitness were superb with special mention going to the excellent front row (front rows win matches!). If you haven't watched a colts match yet I strongly recommend making the effort; you won't be disappointed! This team have another season together and will get better and better and their play bodes well for the future of the Club.

Reader Comment on Friday 02 March 2012 at 11:50

JOHN SAYER Says:

Mr Chairman, You can't be too anal about the cleaning or keeping the whole club house immaculate. We have a fantastic new facility and it's up to all members from youngest mini to oldest supporter to respect and keep the club looking as great as it does now. Damps

Reader Comment on Monday 13 February 2012 at 06:03

MICKY BELL Says:

Graham, Have arrangements for Easter been finalised yet so that I can organise getting down to CRFC? Hope the rest of the season continues like the first half and we get promotion. Regards to all Micky

Reader Comment on Saturday 11 February 2012 at 15:49

SARAH PREECE Says:

Correct me if I am wrong, but I think Katy Thompson (Cog) pulled on a white shirt for the England Women's team in around 99/00?

Reader Comment on Wednesday 08 February 2012 at 14:54

NIGEL (EYRES) Says:

Hello Graham, into the obscure still so along with the Welsh Wintle brothers I'll go for the brothers Lund, Magnus, England and Eric,Norway(capt.) As for Crow caps I can only get 3 Tom Carrruthers, Dylan Hartley and Joseph Baines

Reader Comment on Wednesday 08 February 2012 at 11:07

NIGEL (EYRES) Says:

Touche, Graham an obscure one but how about the Wintle brothers for Wales?

Reader Comment on Wednesday 08 February 2012 at 00:13

IAN GEERING Says:

Hi Graham, Answer to `A` I can sort the obvious ones, In order - Quinell, Underwood, Hastings, Wallace, Bergamasgo ? (check spelling) , Brooke for S/Africa and probably Tuilagi for Samoa ? - but cant think of any others. Answer to `B` - ? dont know Answer to `C` - now also Tuilagi Samoa & England. Answer to `D` - Japan, Fiji, Tonga,Russia, Georgia,Romania & Namibia. its a Toughie - but it gets the brain going...............

Reader Comment on Tuesday 07 February 2012 at 17:29

NIGEL (EYRES) Says:

Graham, the quiz,07/02/12, is fun but we didn't do too well I don't think. So, here's one back. Name the two Duckham brothers and at what level they played for England!! Answers when I see you!!!

Reader Comment on Thursday 26 January 2012 at 17:58

JOHN SAYER Says:

Rosey can cover for Gethin

Reader Comment on Tuesday 24 January 2012 at 14:31

SIMON WILLLIAMS Says:

Graham, have to echo your comments on Sunday's game at Uckfield; the Colts were fantastic and it was a joy to watch rugby played at pace and with aggression and masses of skill. I would encourgae anyone to watch this team which is going from strength to strength...I even watched the game without going to the bar once!

Reader Comment on Tuesday 17 January 2012 at 17:47

JOHN SAYER Says:

GD, Agree with you about the squad but I think we still have a problem at centre and back row. Farrell at 10 for me but at 12 and 13 we still have bludgeons and no sign of a rapier. Jordan-T and Tuilagi are just 1 dimensional, show them a gap and they will still run into contact. We have a back row of 6's without an out and out 7 to provide the continuity a game played at tempo requires. I just wish Saul was given a chance but your bother's got him in the Saxons. Damps

Reader Comment on Friday 30 December 2011 at 10:58

IAN GEERING Says:

Hi Graham, Have we now agreed a Date for the official opening of the New Club House ? Happy New Year to All .... Ian

Reader Comment on Sunday 04 December 2011 at 21:45

IAN GEERING Says:

Hi Graham, just a couple of things- when do you update ? It mite be a good idea to date and time the blog ? Also - added to current news about the 1st Xv next week and the coach already arranged. £5.00p per head for supporters to contact me. cheers - Ian