Senior News – Hammersmith & Fulham RFC

The 1s win a famous victory!

2nd November 2025/in Men's Match Reports, Senior News

Sunday morning, I wake up in a cold sweat. head pounding with few memories from the night before thanks to a successful Hammerween- I had a nightmare in which Max Dugdale is the club’s leading try scorer. Shaking, I reached for my phone and tried to piece together what had happened the day before…. A Happy Hammerween it was.

Hammers turned up to Camberley fashionably late- A tactical tweak made by our bus driver, who seemed to believe that a shortened warm up would provide the fast start that we had been missing.

Inspired by Marshall’s quiz and the assurances of immortality should the lads manage to be the first Hammers team to defeat Camberley away from home, the lads strode out and decided the best form of attack was in fact defence. Of the 40 minutes in the first half, Hammers defended for approximately 35, conceding 1 try and 2 yellow cards. Despite this alarming start, Hammers were defending with vigor- Josh and Dan’s akimbo throwing themselves at anything that moved. Hammers also managed to avoid conceding any points during the yellow card periods (Josh and Joe for some well crafted gamesmanship, perfected on the training ground, but caught by the referee).

The smiles were there to see for their first “W” of the season!

Back up to our full 15, Hammers managed to retain the ball for longer than 3 phases and from a strong scrum, a slick Hammers set piece resulted in Max Dugdale – “tap in” merchant – dotting down in the corner for our first points of the game on the stroke of half time. Joe was unable to convert from the touchline, but it was an all important momentum swing for the lads leading in to the half, or so we thought as Camberley immediately responded with a try of their own- Hammers 5-12 Camberley.

Half Time, and some stirring words from Ryan.

With the lads motivated by a strong defensive half and clear chances to be had with ball in hand, there was hope for some points on the road, however within 5 minutes Camberley had managed to wriggle over from short range and made a comeback even tougher for a team with an impressive home record. However, the Hammers were not to be defeated that easily and from 17-5 down, the remainder of the second half provided a polar opposite performance from both teams, with Hammers taking control of possession and field position. A flowing hammers backs move allowed Tim to break wide with Hammers flooding through to support. The ball inside to Gregor and a right foot step sent him under the sticks for a 7 pointer, converted by Joe. Hammers sensed an upset on the cards. Two well taken tries from Joe, both self-converted, sent the away fans in to delirium and Bryce Morgan to show tremendous touchline mana in front of Rogan’s camera.

With a twitchy 9 point lead and Ryan’s command of ‘CONTROL!’ ringing in the ears of the lads, ‘Fan of free pints’, Gregor decided that a quick restart was the right option – perhaps a certain Frenchman’s style of quick and purposeful Rugby was still fresh in his mind from last season? Despite this, Hammers defended like their lives depended on it for the remaining minutes of the half and with Camberley in possession just outside of the 22, forced a turnover which Gregor duly booted out, completing the win.

A first win of the season for Hammers and hopefully, a sign of things to come with performances improving week-on-week and tries beginning to flow. A rest week next up and then we welcome Jersey to fortress Hurlingham for a double header.

Man of the Match – Joe Carolan

A Glorious Afternoon of Mayhem for the 2s!

2nd November 2025/in Men's Match Reports, Senior News

On a brisk Saturday that smelt faintly of Deep Heat and impending carnage, the mighty Hammersmith 2nd XV (a.k.a. The Bastards) marched onto the field to face Richmond RFC — a side who clearly hadn’t read the script.

From the first whistle, it was clear who fancied it more. Richmond looked ready for a polite game of touch rugby; Hammersmith looked ready for war.

The Tries

First blood went to Samson, who thundered over the line after a series of forwards’ pick-and-goes that could’ve levelled small buildings. Next came Dylan, who decided the only thing better than scoring was inflicting psychological damage while doing it. His hit count alone could’ve been reported to the UN. Richmond’s second row are still somewhere in the Twickenham area, gently weeping into their scrum caps.
And then Anushan — silky as ever — glided through a gap so wide it’s now being used as a new bypass off the A316.

From the Boot

Geoff, the metronome of the backline, had his kicking boots firmly laced.

3 conversions curled through the uprights like poetry in motion.

2 out of 3 penalties slotted neatly — the miss, we’ll generously call “tactical.”

And just when Richmond thought the onslaught had ended, Mike decided to drop a cheeky drop-goal, just because he could. The ball soared high, and somewhere, Jonny Wilkinson shed a proud tear.

The Big Performances

Man of the Match went to Hugo, whose “big carries” were less carries and more acts of property damage. Richmond’s defensive line now exists only as a concept.

Special mention, of course, to Dylan, who put in some juicy, bone-rattling shots that should’ve come with a health warning. The man was an absolute menace — Richmond’s pack may never emotionally recover.

The Final Whistle

When it finally blew, Hammersmith stood victorious — sweaty, muddy, slightly confused about which try was whose, but fully aware that Richmond had been well and truly bastard-ed.

The post-match pints flowed, tales grew taller, and someone definitely claimed they’d “nearly got a call-up for England.” Classic.

Another weekend, another notch on the belt for the Hammersmith 2s, who continue to combine questionable fitness with undeniable brilliance.

The Destroyers Dominate!

2nd November 2025/in Men's Match Reports, Senior News

Fresh off the back of the previous week’s triumphant victory over Kilburn, Seb Money’s Destroyers made the short trip to Barnes on Saturday and came away with a hard-fought 27–24 win — equal parts sharp rugby and sheer bloody-mindedness.

The first twenty was all Hammers. The backs clicked from the off, moving it quickly and actually looking organised for once. Jordan Brown crashed over under the posts for the opener after a few tidy phases up front, before Jules Storey ran in a couple more — classic support play off some slick hands in the backs. It was proper rugby for a spell. The only downside was Jordan Opie’s boot off the tee: one conversion charged down; another scuffed from close range. Still, the scoreboard looked good and Hammers were in control.

Then Barnes started leaning on their two enforcers in the back row — each roughly the size of a transit van and twice as mean — and for ten minutes it looked like a live-action crash test. Every carry was a collision, blokes getting folded, bodies everywhere. They managed a couple of scrappy breakaway tries to keep themselves in it, more through chaos than structure, but the Destroyers hit back before the break with a tidy finish from Nathan Woolley in the corner. Somehow, Hammers absorbed the pressure, stuck to their shape, and went in deservedly on top.

The second half turned into something straight out of a pub car park. Nathan Smith took a cheap shot and made sure the bloke knew about it — bit of push, bit of shove, one high tackle later and he was sat in the bin wondering how he was the only one punished. A few minutes later, Theo West chopped one of their big lads from behind off a quick tap — about fifteen metres offside — and joined him. Down to thirteen.

Barnes fancied themselves at that point, and things started getting spicy. Their skipper got mouthy, Jordan Brown took exception, and promptly bitch-slapped him across the chops — the sort of thing that doesn’t show up on the stats sheet but really sets the tone. To his credit, he channelled the energy the right way soon after, beating a couple of defenders and crashing over in the corner for his second of the day, swinging the momentum back Hammers’ way. After the earlier kicking chaos in the first half, Cameron Roberts took over the tee duties but didn’t fare any better.

Hammers dug in. Barnes threw everything at the line, but the Destroyers scrambled, tackled, and somehow saw it out. A proper gutsy win from a side that refused to fold. Jules Storey took a well-deserved Man of the Match — two tries, sharp all game, and a constant threat with ball in hand. With both binned lads disappearing early, Jordan Opie picked up Dick of the Day honours for his work off the tee.

Seb Money, ever stoic at the helm, marshalled his legion of men to yet another victory — quietly reinforcing his status as the club’s most successful captain so far this season, maintaining his 100% win record. Honourable mentions also to debutants Theo West, Scott Ewen, Abdi Aden and Dan Hogg, who all slotted in seamlessly and made immediate impacts on and off the field.

The 2s too strong for Richmond!

2nd November 2025/in Men's Match Reports, Senior News

Relishing a comeback win over London rivals Belsize Park, the 2’s were determined to keep their momentum rolling and put the hammer down against whatever Richmond 4’s had to offer. Learning from their sluggish start the previous week, the warm-up was sharper, the focus dialed in, and the intent clear. A rousing team talk from a Welshman lit the fire under the squad — and it showed immediately.

From the first whistle, the Bastards came out flying. Centre Christian’s burst of pace shredded the Richmond defensive line and opened the scoring early — the first of what would be many for him that afternoon. Richmond, stung by the early blow, replied with aggression and heavy carries, particularly through their strong number 8. Their pressure took them deep into the Bastards’ 5-metre line, but after a series of crunching two-man tackles from the forwards, the defence held firm. A penalty turnover and an excellent kick to touch from Geoff flipped the field, and a slick lineout move saw Christian once again cross in the corner for another five points. The tone was set: punishing defence, ruthless attack, and a Bastard side that refused to let up. From another dominant lineout, Dylan, angered by the free healthcare he’s experienced, charged through the line with two defenders clinging on to touch down. Three tries up, the Bastards began to play with joie de vivre but a lapse in focus allowed Richmond to build phases deep in the Bastards’ half. A series of penalties and a stern yellow card warning followed, after Yarwood, a MOTM contender, allegedly ripped the ball from a grounded player. Richmond took advantage, scoring from a 5m lineout after several pick-and-go attempts. With the score at 21–7, the Bastards needed a response; and Ted delivered. A brilliant show-and-go saw him slice through the defence for a breathtaking solo try, closing the half 28–7 after Weaver’s flawless kicking from the tee.

At halftime, Nugget, managing to keep his emotions in check, praised the side’s rugged defence but reminded the boys to stick to their structure and trust the game plan. And, as against Belsize, they listened.

The second half was a clinic. The backline clicked into gear, orchestrated by Geoff’s exceptional distribution; a performance that would earn him Man of the Match. From a set-piece move off the scrum, Weaver lived up to his name, weaving through defenders to score under the posts. Moments later, the same play saw captain Thomas lead by example and claim a well-deserved five-pointer. As the game wore on, a tiring Richmond side began to crumble. Sopher finished smartly in the left-hand corner after running a superb support line. Nursey continued his excellent form, breaking tackles for two tries in the half, reinforcing his reputation as one of the first names on the team sheet. Christian completed his hat-trick — the first of the season — and Thomas doubled his own tally soon after. The forwards refused to be left out of the fun. Dylan and Harry both crashed over under the posts after powerful runs, while the front row dominated every scrum, setting the platform for much of the day’s success. A special mention goes to Will, who came off the bench with huge impact in the backrow and earned himself a starting spot for next week.

By the final whistle, the 2s had not only outscored their rivals but outmuscled and outclassed them, sending a clear message to the rest of the league: the Bastard’s mean business. Dick of the Day honours went to Weaver after a failed 40m drop-goal in attempt to build scoreboard pressure in a game that finished 81-7.

The Sledge Hammers open their account!

24th October 2025/in Men's Match Reports, Senior News

It was a mild Friday night as the Hammersmith & Fulham “SledgeHammers” finally dusted off their boots after a three-year sabbatical from Vets Rugby —though for some, it looked more like a retirement comeback tour. Despite fielding a squad comprised of Hammers legends, some questioned if the Hammers were less about blistering pace these days and more about blister plasters, doubts that were not assuaged by prop Ade Furniss leading a total body sub-5 minute warm up. Which all agreed was adequate preparation for a game of contact Rugby on a dark October night featuring a group of middle aged men, many of whom hadn’t done any cardio since their last bout of “meat sweats” at Goucho. What would the night bring…

With knees creaking louder than the clubhouse door and fitness levels best described as “aspirational,” they lined up ready to prove that experience (and maybe a few pints) still counts for something. Their opponents today? The London Cornish Baas Baas, in reality a mixed side of London Welsh, London Cornish, and a handful of London Japanese. This United Nations of Rugby Teams were themselves tentatively re-entering the league, butchered as most clubs were by COVD, the passage of time, Hyrox, careers, and the arrival of vampire kids. None of that mattered tonight though – both sides just wanted to feel the joy that comes from playing with your mates, the pride that comes from a well-executed tackle, and the satisfaction one gets from feeling a crisp Gilbert in your hands.

Newcomer Alistair Hare had the honour of being the first Hammers vet to feel that crisp Gilbert in his hands, catching the ball at the kick off. He felt it for about 2 seconds before getting smashed by a wheezing Baa baa second row, but felt it he did. The boys were off!

With Cornish jumping on the loose ball, the SledgeHammers were now defending, and it didn’t take long for the old shoulders to get proper warm. Ade Furnish, a Turf Games acolyte, showed what being the best at exercising could bring, laying down some huge hits against the sizeable Baa Baa pack and stopping them dead. With Lachy Skulander, one of the younger cohort of Hammers, hunting for tackles in the mid-field, it didn’t take long for the boys to force a turn over. Will Finn – his jersey especially made of boyfriend material – dug the ball out of the ruck, and fed former Hammers coach Ronan Murphy at 10. Always a believe in the “get the ball to Jlo” school of Rugby, Ronan’s long pass found the waiting hands of James Lo, who pulled a classic “catch me if you can” and rang 50 meters to score. The kick converted by Ronan, 7-0 to the SledgeHammers. It boded well.

The Baa Baas weren’t – as the saying goes – there to f**k spiders though. They came straight back at the Hammers, pressuring Ed Farrer off the kick off and regathering the ball. Playing a direct style of Rugby, round and round the corner they came, their big runners targeting the shoulders of Jacob Murray, Tim Lowndes and Ed Haynes. There was nothing casual in the hits as both sides wound back the years. Another turnover was forced, but this time the direct running Cillian Waldron was snagged and brought down. Phases later, Cornish won a scrum feed, and despite Arthur “Pig” Woodward and his fellow front rowers more than holding their own, a slick Cornish clearing pass found some waiting hands, from which their darty 11 scored under the posts. The scores are now even.

It started to get spicey. Ronan put the restart high and allowed the boys to pressure the catcher.

Bang.

Ade folds him.

Boom.

Jacob Murray and the now-arrived Dave Wickman double tackle their 8.

Smash.

Lachy bruises their second row’s DNA. Turnover! And in a replay of the first try, and quick series of passes through Ronan, Waldron, and Tony B’s hands finds JLo, who adds to his numbers and scores out wide. 12-7.

From here, the game slows, and the Baa Baa’s deeper bench comes into play. Bringing on their “Gout Squad”, strong Baa Baa counter rucking and a lack of Hammers shape sees an arm wrestle develop. The game i

Ade Furniss, man of the match

s close, but the Baa Baa play the territory more effectively. Ronan Murphy shows his legendary cool, calm and collected approach to Rugby, and seeks to politely share his views as to the Baa Baa 13’s carry height. You can take the boy out of Ireland, but you better put him on parole….

A Sledgehammers forary into the Baa Baa 22 is returned via a long Baa Baa counter kick. It finds the hands of Rogan who – showing everyone why he’s a front row – promptly catches then drops the ball over the sideline. The Baa baa’s lineout finally starts to function and they keep the ball away from Master of the Air Lachy. The ball goes through the hands, and phases later they score by the posts. 12-14 to the Baa Baas.

The Hammers bench empties. John Kirkham takes the 9 mantle and lays down some hate on their opposite 13. Sean Richardson starts pulling the strings from 10, but the boys are running out of bodies come ruck time and can’t secure quick ball. More Cornish pressure results, and despite Ade’s best efforts to decapitate their 15, the referee decides the “games gone soft” and penalises the boys. This time, a Baa Baas maul. They score. 12-19.

There is razzle, there is dazzle, but there are also hamstring tweaks and dead legs. Tony B limps off, while Ade Furniss needs a rest. Adam Jones threatens the line but can’t break through. Ed Farrer – with 80 minutes to play the next day on his mind – bravely breaks through, only to drop the ball close the line. A thundering counter run down the sideline by the Baa Baas eventually leads to another score. 12-24.

The closing stages of the match feature the Hammers banging away at the Baa Baa’s line, but they run out of time. The boys are elated though. For many, this is the first game of Rugby since before COVID, and all thoroughly enjoyed the outing and importantly, running out with their mates. Ade Furniss is awarded a well-deserved Man-of-the-Match, and Rogan a thoroughly well-deserved Dick-of-the-Day.

Onto the next game, the 14^th November!

Fierce Bracknell battle yet again comes down to last play

24th October 2025/in Men's Match Reports, Senior News

There are three certainties in life: death, taxes, and Hammers v Bracknell going down to the last play. An always competitive and fiery fixture delivered more of the same, with a little bit of controversy thrown in for good measure.

Hammers went into this game off the back of a great week of training, looking to jump start their season after a disappointing opening run. The infamous Hammers slow start was nowhere to be found this week as we flew out of the blocks early, running from deep against a stiff breeze.

Bryce Morgan took a deep box kick and made good ground with his quick feet, looking to set up a clean exit before Joe Carolan switched to the short side. He passed on to Josh Asafu Adjaye, who burst through two tackles in typical fashion before surprising everyone with a superb offload to send Max Dugdale in to finish.

Fifty two seconds on the clock, the fast start we had been hoping for. Joe Carolan slotted the extras from the 15.

A few minutes later, Hammers were in again. Off a scrum, Tim Russell made yards in the most direct route possible before the ball was quickly recycled out to Bryce, who once again jinked between defenders and kept the momentum going. Gregor (NOT GREG) Watson quickly found Joe, who powered over from ten out. From a similar angle as his first, he couldn’t take all seven.

Hammers 12–0, four minutes on the clock, the perfect start.

Bracknell dominated the next few passages of play, running from deep and setting up camp in Hammers’ half. But the defence from Hammers was brilliant against a very physical Bracknell side, who used their big men well to break the gain line and then play wide through their centres and 10 on wrap around plays.

Ian Maclean got Hammers out of trouble with a now typical big hit on our five, stopping their gigantic eight from trying to score off the back of the scrum.

The two sides traded possession, with the ball mostly in Hammers’ half for the next ten minutes or so — Hammers perhaps guilty of overplaying and not exiting cleanly. The defence was a real highlight of the first half, with front up tackles from the likes of Dan Hosteller and Seb Rivett halting Bracknell’s momentum.

This period of pressure eventually told after the Bracknell 13 made a break down their left wing, leading to Joe Carolan knocking on while going for a trademark intercept and receiving a yellow card for his troubles. Bracknell scored off the resulting penalty from a bruising tap and go from their second row, their 10 converting from bang in front.

Back in their half, Hammers had a great opportunity to put points on the board after Dan stripped their carrier, leading to a not rolling call a few phases later. Max duly missed the penalty attempt, unable to add to his points tally for the season that he doesn’t tell anyone about.

Despite being a man down, Hammers continued to defend doggedly and earned a few penalties, giving us field position and running down the clock on Joe’s yellow. After a brilliant kick from deep by the Bracknell 15, using the wind to his advantage, Bracknell were again back in Hammers territory and won a penalty off the line out, taking the shot at goal, which their 10 converted well.

Half Time: Hammers 12–10 Bracknell

Straight off the kick off, Andrew (Kenneth) Rogan, fresh off his cameo for the Vets team the night before, got a cheap shot off the ball from a Bracknell forward, earning us a penalty. The Bracknell man only escaped a yellow due to the ref missing the number.

After more possession juggling, Bracknell were awarded an advantage off a scrum on their own ten metre line, off which they made 40 metres up the pitch before knocking on at the Hammers 22, only for the referee to take them back for the original penalty (one for the moderator, that).

Off the resulting line out, Alex Spicer was yellow carded for playing the nine, which in fairness was probably deserved. Again, Hammers managed to find their way out of trouble, with Seb stealing a line out brilliantly and Hammers running their way out of danger.

Hammers had their chances to score, setting up well but thwarted by a great turnover close to the line by the Bracknell winger. Bracknell won another penalty following a line out, once again taking the points and giving them the lead for the first time.

Score: Hammers 12–13 Bracknell

Hammers were then given an advantage after Spicer returned. Bracknell’s flanker saw some cheese after upending Dan during a ruck. Hammers had a number of phases on the Bracknell line but were again wasteful, knocking on while trying to force it. (For anyone watching the Bracknell live stream, Eoin Baker throws a vintage double teapot afterwards — well worth a watch at 1:34:28.)

Hammers played some good phases and once again found ground through a Josh AA carry, only to be called back for a tackle complete call after he was scragged down with no one around him.

After a great game, constantly making yards and distributing well at 12, Charlie Scott had to go off and later to A&E for a wrist injury courtesy of a questionably timed Bracknell shot. Ben Dugdale joined the fray on the wing (#BD11).

Joe Carolan slotted a penalty after Gregor was hit off the ball (another bad cheap shot from Bracknell’s 1).

Score: Hammers 15–13 Bracknell

From the resulting kick off, Seb claimed and carried, and Spicer won the battle for the clear out, which the Bracknell flanker flopped out of, landing on his back and ending up over Spicer’s knee. Spicer pulled him back over.

Apparently, rolling onto your back is now considered to be landing dangerously. As the great Sean Dyche would say, the game’s gone.

Second yellow, Hammers down to 14 men for the remainder of the game.

Bracknell piled on the pressure through their pattern of powerful carries followed by quick ball recycled wide, but Hammers’ scramble defence again was superb, with Tim and Bryce both saving tries close to the line before Bracknell swung edge to edge. With Hammers overcommitted around the ruck, they scored in the opposite corner. Again, the 10 converted with a great kick from the touchline.

Score: Hammers 15–20 Bracknell

Chasing the game, Hammers won a penalty after some great phases working side to side, with Josh and Bryce making good ground. After a number of phases, Ben Dugdale scored in the corner from his first touch of the ball after Tim did superbly well to offload out of contact. Joe was sadly unable to convert from the corner.

Score: Hammers 20–20 Bracknell

Hammers exited cleanly before Bracknell came back again, building pressure through their established and effective patterns. Working edge to edge and gaining a penalty advantage, their 10 spotted a gap in the stretched Hammers defence and darted over under the sticks — an absolute dagger.

Full Time: Hammers 20–27 Bracknell

A losing bonus point for Hammers will feel like not enough for their efforts, but the performance and attitude were massive positives. Onwards and upwards — Camberley, a fun bus, and fancy dress await.

Destroyer Debutants shine against Kilburn

24th October 2025/in Men's Match Reports, Senior News

And so it came to pass, that on the 18^th day, of the 11^th month of the 25^th year of the 21^st century, Hammersmith & Fulham did something that they had not done in several years by putting out 4 sides. The Hammers had seen a massive serge in new blood and had gone from one extreme if having to tell guys they couldn’t get a game because of lack of numbers at the start of the season, to having to tell players they couldn’t get a game because we had more players than available spaces the week before. This week, the gods were on our side and we were able to get 4 full sides out.

The opposition for the Seb Money Destroyers were a Kilburn Cosmos side that much like the destroyers, were made up of new blood and both sides were eager to put in good performances. With the toss going in favour of the Hammers, Kilburn were given the task of having to play up hill in the first half, a decision that worked in favour for the 16 visitors from South West London.

The first 20 minutes of the first half saw both teams not threatening each others try line with most of the game being played between the 2 22 meter lines. It was the Hammers however that with second row Oscar Newcombe crashing over the line from close distance to get the first score. Jordan Opie missed the conversion and the score was 5-0. This was the moment that gave Hammers a kick as Hammers soon found themselves back on the attack and after some well worked moves and carries from the hammers pack, Hammers found them selves over the line with debutant Sam Coughlan crossing the line. Jordan Opie slotted the conversion to make it 12-0

Kilburn hit back soon after and a driving maul from a lineout made it 12-5 to the Hammers. With half time soon on us Hammers pushed for another score, and this they got from another debutant in the form of number 12 Jonny Francis. This was the last score of the half.

HT Hammers 17-5 Kilburn

Hammers knew that the first score of the second half could be crucial in deciding the game and it was the strong second 20 in the first half that saw us on the attack early in the second half with Jordan Oppie crossing for another try for the Hammers to make it 22-7. With Kilburn tiring from having the uphill in the first half as well as the Hammers forwards causing havoc in the scrum, holes started to appear and after a good Hammers lineout, another debutant Jules Story danced through the defence for his first try of the afternoon. Jordan converted to make it 29-7.

Soon after this, Hammers found them selves back on the attack and front row debutant Dan Ursell went over in the corner after a sublime crossfield kick from scrum half Seb Norris to make the score 34-7. Kilburn answered soon after and soon found themselves scoring their second try of the game to make it 34-10. Their try scorer left his mark on the nose of yet another debutant Karl Bartrum, the result was a broken nose for the back row as he coped a elbow to the nose trying to stop the try. The last play of the game saw the Hammers back in the Kilburn 22. A lineout lead to Jules Storey crossing over for his second and Hammers 7^th try of the game. The try was converted to make the final score 41-10 to the men in red.

Man-of-the-Match went to scrum half Seb Norris for controlling the game so well at 9. The boys enjoyed the victory with some well earned beer with the opo before heading back to the comfort of SW to watch the 1s and 3s in their search for victory and the hope that Club chairman will be providing beer if all teams won, we were hopeful of this after hearing of the Bastard 2s 13 try thumping of Richmond. When we arrived we got to see the mighty 3s come out on top after a bruising game against Harringey but unfortunately, the 1s got sunk by a last minute try by Bracknell.

Cracking rugby and a hard-fought win for the 3s

24th October 2025/in Men's Match Reports, Senior News

Hammersmith & Fulham RFC – 3s Match Report Final Score: Hammers 29 – 24 Haringey Rhinos

A Frenchman, an Australian, an Englishman, and a Kiwi all walk into a change room together… No, that’s not the start of one of Rogan’s “funny” post-training jokes, that just happened to be the starting 9, 10, 12, 13 combo of the mighty Thirsty 3s who were primed and ready for a cracking game of rugby.

After a revised warm up, the team were fired up and ready to take on a physical Haringey Rhinos team.

Fortunately, thanks to some silky quick hands from Sam Smith, Kenan “Naan” Ugenc, Paddy O’Tool and Mike Willis, winger Fergus Cassidy scored the first points of the match. This now had the sideline buzzing with excitement for the remaining 70minutes of high quality rugby.

However, what’s a Thirsty 3s game without a little chaos? First, Minister for Vibes Sam Smith (who forgot the speaker for pre & post match tunes) departed the field, shortly followed by our rampaging No.8 Ainsley Howard, who unfortunately suffered a serious knee injury. Thankfully, the bench stacked with a dynamic bomb squad consisting of Simon Irwin, Kieran Smith, Sehii Shostak & Brendan Leschert, were all called into action earlier than expected and absolutely rose to the challenge.

After regathering and composing ourselves, Simon Irwin crashed over the line on the back of a 20m driving maul that resembled a runaway freight train. It was a true piece of art for those that love set piece.

Hammers then continued to capitalise on Haringey’s mistakes making serious line breaks and showing oﬀ our classy skills through the likes of George Riley, Charlie Hay, Ben Bradshaw, Dylan Jones, Kenan “Naan” Urgenc, Harry Stratford, Thomas Rochette, Michael Willis and Tim Jones.

While the author of this match report might admit to a brief memory lapse in the build up, what won’t be forgotten was stand-in captain Adam Stannard’s try to close out the half. Word on the street is Adam chose to skip the team huddle to ask Haringey for the VEO so he could save the clip and show it off to anyone who will watch it with him.

The second half started with Haringey fired up and full of added belief that they were still firmly in the hunt for a W. Despite strong defensive efforts pushing the Haringey attack backwards, a lucky bounce from a box kick gifted their winger a fortunate try which was then followed by another quick-fire try that flipped the momentum. The Hammers now had a fight on their hands.

Speaking of fights, Paddy O’Toole was later heard talking about what some describe as an alleged romantic love tap to the face. But after pure speculation and nothing proven in a court of law, the thirsty 3s marched on.

Once hammers managed to get some possession and built some phases Ben Bradshaw managed to cross the line to take the hammers to a 26-19 lead with under 10 minutes to go.

The momentum however, was very much still with Haringey who continued to charge towards the Hammers goal line and after multiple phases of goal line defence that would make any coach proud, the hearts of the hammers players and supporters nearly sunk when the Haringey player looked to be a certain chance of scoring the match equaling try however, the Haringey player appeared to get too excited too early and knocked the ball on over the line.

It’s okay though, premature celebrations happen to the best of us except for the author of this fine match report who definitely has never experienced that….

Now that the pressure was relieved, the boys charged upfield, and Tim Jones calmly slotted a penalty goal to stretch the lead to 29–19.

After a prolonged period of gritty defence from the Hammers, the Haringey attack patiently waited for their opportunity to strike and managed scored a consolation try after the full time whistle.

Post-match, injured captain-coach Rob McKeon deemed Mitch Currie as Man-of-the Match. Rumour has it he’s also requested the VEO footage… something about his highlights boosting his Hinge profile? Desperate times call for desperate measures I guess.

A cracking day of rugby, a hard-fought win, and as always our thoughts are with those who picked up knocks. Wishing Ainsley and the rest of the wounded a speedy recovery.

Final Score: Hammers 29 – 24 Haringey Rhinos

A poor start leaves the Hammers a hill to climb

19th October 2025/in Men's Match Reports, Senior News

A warmer than expected mid-October day saw the Hammers take on their latest opposition in Tunbridge Wells, a team who had started the season well. With the sun shining down at Hurlingham, and anticipation was building in the hope for our first league win.

Kick off saw a pressure filled chase with the Hammers hunting their first collision. The desire to get off the line and make an impact early on was halted quickly, with our ever impressing lumberjack 7 giving away a high tackle with his first shot. A well executed lineout, some quick hands in the backs, and a good kick in behind caught the hammers cold. 7 points down after just a minute gone.

Eager to put their poor start behind them, the hammers regained possession in Tunbridge’s half, looking to build a strong attacking platform. Silly errors saw Wells turn the ball over and score a break away try. 14-0. 21-0 and then 28-0. The Hammers desperately needed t respond and gain a foothold in the game.

Finally, some possession. All 8 of the Hammers pack, aggressively working round the corner and calmly holding the ball, gave the back line their first opportunity to cause some havoc. On his 100th appearance for the club, Joe C delayed the pass perfectly allowing Jake Paul aka The Pound Shop Ibiza Boss to break the line and score. 28-7.

The match saw Joe Carolan hit 100 caps.

This momentum shift was huge, and the Hammers were hungry for more. Again, the pack stayed in the fight at maul time, and a well ‘engaged’ rumble allowed hooker Dan H over the line. 28-14. A come back on?

The first half ended 35-14 after The Hammers were caught napping down the blindside of the scrum in their 22. Despite slow start costing them early points, they remained very much alive in the fight.

The second half saw more of the same. Hammersmith absorbing lots of pressure on their own line, building pressure up the pitch, but silly mistakes costing them chances to make a dent to the scoreboard. Karma really does exist, Marshall suffering a harsh yellow card, serving him right for publicly mugging me off mid week on the group chat. HA. 😉

A classic Tim Russell counter attack was finished off, giving the Hammersmith fans and players the hunger to chase for a bonus point.

Another strong mauling effort from the Hammers pack saw our skipper crash over giving the boys a much needed and deserved try bonus point.

I think it’s fair to say there was a huge step forward in attacking presence, patience on the ball, and desire to stay in the fight for the full 80. Things are genuinely coming together, week by week, session by session, and this is reflected in the recent performances. Heading into this weekend, there should be much excitement building in this group, with 2, hopefully 3 massive fixtures.

Of course shout out to Dan & Emily on their engagement this week, and to Joe for 100 up for the club – massive congratulations to both on behalf of everyone at Hammersmith and Fulham.

#COMYH

The 2s continue their winning run!

19th October 2025/in Men's Match Reports, Senior News, Uncategorised

One of London’s fiercest rivalries took place this past Saturday as the Bastard 2s faced Belsize Park. Once a few reluctant youths were cleared from the pitch, the stage was set for a great match under the October sun.

The game got off to an interesting start, with Belsize coming out strong. Dominating much of the possession in the first half, they began to rack up points against the Bastards. The boys put their bodies on the line, with some huge hits from the likes of Kioko and Yarwood. The Bastards managed to force several penalties in the opposition half and opted to go for the sticks. However, despite Weaver’s best efforts, nothing quite came of it

Towards the end of the first half, the Bastards started to gain more possession, with strong carries from Dan N and Nursey looking promising. After some great phase play, Max D managed to get one down in the corner just before halftime, leaving the score at 19–5 to Belsize.

A rousing team talk from Nugget, calling for more grit across the field, set the tone for the second half.

Belsize received the kickoff and began building through their phases, but the Bastards’ defensive line held firm. Big shots began to rain in just as Nugget had insisted. Before long, the wise Ben H demonstrated he still had it by reading the attack play and running a 50 meter intercept.

This really gave the boys a sense of confidence and we continued to build. Passes that wouldn’t stick in the first half started to land, tackles weren’t slipping, and the lineouts began to click.

More excellent phase play followed, and Max D was once again in the corner for his second try of the match.

A short while after the restart, we forced a knock on in the opposition’s 22, leading to a scrum. Rumour has it Mitch called that he’d charge down their kick. Sure enough, by the time I’d untangled myself from the front row, the ball was rolling over their try line after a successful charge down from Mitch, with Kris there to dot it down.

Belsize came back at us hard, but the boys defended brilliantly, winning a turnover on our own five metre line. Huge hits from Dylan had Nugget visibly emotional with pride by this point (pretty sure I saw a tear).

From there, we kicked upfield, won the lineout, and set a powerful maul before Welsh Tom hit a hard line, broke a few tackles, and went over under the sticks.

To keep the three fans on the sideline entertained, we allowed Belsize one more try before the end. But it wasn’t enough… After an almighty comeback, the Bastards sealed a 36–26 victory.

A great first outing for me with the Bastards, and I’m looking forward to many more.