Twice the fun on opening day

Ealing Trailfinders 1871 first XV made a winning start to life in Regional 2 Thames, while the second XV were also victorious as they made their bow in Counties Middlesex 2.

The firsts opened their season with a 28-26 win away to Teddington Stags, while the seconds triumphed 24-3 at Hendon.

Ade Owolabi, Leo Coddringto-Lamber, and Archie Baxter scored the first XV tries. Harry Vidler kicked the rest of the points, including a drop goal that rewarded hard work from the forward pack. The match nearly took a late twist when the Teddington kicker hit the post with a last-minute penalty, and the ball was scrambled clear to bring about the final whistle.

Jonny Oh was named player of the match after an impressive display in the front and back rows. He was part of a forward pack that laid the foundations with a strong set-piece that adapted to changing circumstances as the match rolled on.

Ealing 1871 seconds raced into a 21-3 lead by half-time, but a serious injury brought about the full-time whistle. Flanker Theo Szweda was player of the match.