Saracens Amateur RFC Limited

Someone, somewhere was looking over us as the rain clouds dissapeared, and only a slight wind prevented Saracens having their first match at Allianz Park in perfect weather conditions.

It was poised to be a fantastic day, not only for the opportunity to play on such great facilities, but also test ourselves against one of the best teams in the league.

Right from the kick off, it was clear why London Welsh had only lost one game prior to yesterday. They were physical and played at a great pace. This lead to the first 30 minutes mainly being played down in the Saracens half. However, due to some excellent defensive work from the entire team, (Felix Brasseur making a stand out tackle) the score only went to 7 - 0 due to an ineffective chase and some good footwork and pace from the Welsh winger. After some pressure from the Saracens forwards, linking effectively with the backs, an opportunity arose for the boot of Jack Goldberg to make it 7 - 3, which he duly did.

This seemed to spark Saracens into life. As London Welsh suffered at the hands of the ref's yellow card, Sacacens took advantage and following some great interlinking passing Tom Weir, who was outstanding throughout, crashed over under the posts. The following conversion from Jack Goldberg meant that, against the run of play, Saracens entered half-time 7-10 up.

The second half could not be any tighter. Saracens managed to exert more pressure that the previous half, playing much more rugby in the Welsh 22. However, the Welsh defence held firm and Saracens had to rely on the accuracy of Jack Goldberg's boot to keep them in the lead. At 7 - 13, it couldn't be any closer. Following some excellent running from the Welsh forwards, their back row broke the Saracens defence and scored under the post. With the successful conversion, this put the score at a heart-stopping 14-13.

Saracens did not panic. After a further period of pressure, Jack Goldberg managed to slot over the winning penalty.

The last five minutes saw Saracens fight tooth and nail to keep their line safe, and as the final whistle went, it was clear that the boys had been involved in the hardest game this season.

We wish the London Welsh team every success for promotion. A top club, and a great bunch of lads.

Personally I couldn't have asked for more from the 18 lads that took part yesterday. You made the club, your team mates and your captain proud.