Fun in the sun

1/  This was a game too far for Jersey. They have done well this season, up to last week they were still in with a shout of 4th and pushed us all the way in the semifinal of the B&I cup. But this was not their day- getting nilled at home is never good, and in front of the highest crowd of the season, even less so. We were clinical and it all unravelled for Jersey, notably at the lineout. I stopped counting the number of attacking lineouts they lost when I had to put my pint down to count the fingers on my other hand. Great club though and talking to their Chairman afterwards, it is clear they have big plans for the next few seasons - they'll be pushing hard again next year. 
 
2/ Jarad William is a big loss for us. How many times have you known the man of the match award go to the opposition team? I get completely why he is going, he wants to play and anyone behind Buzz is going to struggle for game time, but he took his chance here and looked impressive. Great signing for Donny - hope it doesn't come back to bite us in the backside 
 
3/ Much was made of this being a "YC lite" team- with several key names rested. A number of players who are leaving us were picked in the 22- and they did a great job- also good to see  Andy "Bruce" Forsyth, Stegmann (minus the boy bun) and a cameo from Christian Georgiou at the end. Spare a thought for Ben Hooper - his Carnegie career has ended with him on crutches. All the players came over to thank the travelling support and hearing "Marching on Together" belting out from the changing room at the end was fantastic - staying or going, these lads know they still have a job to do. 
 
4/ There were far more people on the 12.52 bus from Liberation station than went on the fun bus to Moseley. Ok I hear you cry, Jersey's scenery is slightly more picturesque than the West Midlands.  But it takes a flight to get there (for some fans who wanted their money's worth from EasyJet it took 2 flights to get there).  This was my first trip, and like others, I would definitely recommend it.  I obviously hope we get promoted, but if we don't, the Jersey trip would be the highlight of another season in the championship. Great atmosphere, sunny weather, friendly natives as well as a good turnout from our board who made sure the fans were looked after.  We had the usual pre- match sweepstake for the first try scorer -  and one of us ( who shall remain nameless  - what goes on tour stays on tour) spent quite a bit of his time trying to influence the 4th official........ 

 5/ Momentum/winning habit/confidence - whatever you want to call it, we've got it. Pre match I really didn't know how this result would go.  Usually even when we're well ahead in games, I am always wondering if we can find a way to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.  This was one though when the result was never really in doubt.  6 tries  scored, and a clean sheet in defence.  

 All in all a brilliant way to end the regular season – however next week it’s back to Headingley and now it's about to get serious........