Running Rampant: A Report on the UCL First XV

With the Varsity match against Kings just around the corner, interest in UCL rugby is picking up. The Buzz explores the current state of the team and what it is that has made them into such a formidable force.

The numbers speak for themselves; Played 9 Won 9, a points difference of + 223: an amazing season by any standards.

Compared with the underachievement of recent years, this team is easily one of, if not the best. There are a number of players with experience of first class, professional or junior international rugby, with every player bar two having played for UCL before. This has allowed them to remain unbeaten in both league and cup.

Captain Jack Tredrea told The Buzz of a few matches that have stood out for him. The first of these was the opening match of the season against a strong RUMS Firsts, which UCL won 15-8. In their most recent match, the UCL Firsts pulled out a win – despite being camped on their own try-line during 15 minutes of desperate defence (a part of their game which had been largely untested this season up until that point).

A number of players have stood out. Flying winger Ollie Marshall has scored 20 tries in 9 games – a fantastic strike rate. Fly half Will Green has impressed with his tactical awareness and kicking ability. And in the forward pack, Brad Jarvis has been consistently excellent in all areas of play.

While training on the field is obviously important, off-field antics have played a large role in forging such a tightly-knit, tough team. They train at Esher RFC in Surrey, and the thirty minute train ride there and back allows plenty of time for jokes and banter to be thrown around. Plus, the weekly ritual of Sports Night with its mixture of alcohol and team chants is something that the squad seems to enjoy!

As a result, confidence is high coming into the Varsity match against King's. Of course, an unbeaten season always helps in this respect. Meanwhile, the team is getting on with training as usual, though there have been more weights lifted in the gym in preparation for the big game – which can only be an advantage.

So with the team preparing for the biggest game of the year, people are getting increasingly excited for the game. If you haven’t done so yet, get your ticket and come and cheer the team on. The match is on March 2nd. Anything to get one over Kings!