Report: Merton/Mansfield RFC Old Boys Match 2018

The first weekend of February saw the return of some Merton/Mansfield RFCs greats for the annual Old Boys exhibition match. The current squad came into the fixture with youthful zeal, bolstered by a recent win in the local derby over Oriel. The return of Mertonians Josh Navarajasegaran and Tobi Clarke, fresh from Blues duty, provided the Old Boys with a formidable task. The homecoming squad spanned many decades and varying levels of success, from veteran Richard Underhill to the dream team of the 2010-2012 vintage. The Old Boys refused to be unsettled by the dressing room taunts from the current M&Ms – fortunately the denture advertisements stuck to the wall were not relevant for most.

A tackle made during the 2018 Merton/Mansfield RFC Old Boys exhibition match


Preparation turned out to be the key factor in deciding the result. Whilst the current squad performed their pre-match routine with military precision, the Old Boys congregated and passed a ball, recalling tales of old. After the abandonment of last year’s game due to injury, both sides were baying for a battle. The Old Boys made inroads against the younger forwards with the “Dad strength” giving the upper hand in the rucks and scrums. It was in the backline, however, that current M&Ms found joy. Fitness and speed yielded a flurry of tries for the home side, leaving the Old Boys to play catch-up. As the game drew to a close, the old guard settled into something that resembled a game plan as they rumbled over for two tries. In the end, the pace and organisation of the current squad proved too much as they finished the alumni off 29-12.

A scrum is set at the 2018 Merton/Mansfield RFC Old Boys exhibition match


While the rugby boots may have been hung up for another year, there was still life in the Old Boys yet as we made our way to Mansfield and attempted to analyse the day’s rugby (both M&M and Six Nations) over some beers. The night culminated in a dinner and awards ceremony, with Mansfield’s Henry Sasse taking the honours as man of the match. Sasse led young and old to celebrate into the Oxford night, with most of the Old Boys expected to recover by next year.

Another fierce tackle during the 2018 Merton/Mansfield RFC Old Boys exhibition match


In addition to those who braved an immensely physical game, particular thanks go to Freddie Overton, Patrick Ferguson and Alex Smith for organising a great day out. A mention to all those who couldn’t make it, spectated or left the field on account of injuries (a cameo from Sam Henry of Merton Lodge proved costly by way of a torn calf) - we hope to see you next year.

Report by Connor Brogan (2012)