With Easter approaching, Barnes fielded two teams last time out, our Outriders came a worthy second losing 39-17, but our Wonder Women overcame Bec Belles 39-10, Fiona Murray's match report is below for your Easter enjoyment.

Quick update on the Under 22’s game.Barnes Under 22s are now back in the top competition as defenders of The Surrey U22s Cup.
The Schedule is:
Venue: Old Pauline’s RFC, Thames Ditton, KT7 0PW
Format:
Surrey U22 Cup, semi-finals, KO 3:15pm:
SF1: Barnes U22s v Rosslyn Park U22s
SF2: Reeds v Old Pauline’s

KO 4:10pm:
Gold Final
Bronze Final

All matches just 30mins.

It’ll be a tough couple of matches, but if successful we will be back-to-back winners of the U22s Cup.

Let’s get down and support the lads!

The club swings back into action in earnest next weekend, which sees the Outriders on tour to Portugal and the Men's 1st back in action away at Old Deer Park to London Welsh, we owe them after losing just before Christmas in a 0-7 encounter where we were woeful. We need everyone there supporting on 11th April. More news on that next week.

Have a peaceful and loving Easter, after all of the recent turmoil in the world enjoy the time off to the max, see you on the other side.

Rhino x

BARNES VS BEC BELLES AWAY – 29TH MARCH FINAL SCORE: 39 – 10 words by Fiona Murray
On Sunday, Barnes Women’s 1XV returned to Earlsfield for the second consecutive week, this time facing Bec Belles Ladies. Riding a six-game winning streak, Barnes were determined to make it seven in a row. Having narrowly beaten Bec Belles 12–5 back in December, they anticipated a challenging contest.

Barnes started the first half playing downhill and were quick to take advantage. Within the opening 10 minutes, Scarlett crossed the line with a rapid break down the wing to score the first try. She soon doubled her tally with another well-taken effort, and a successful conversion from Liv put Barnes 12–0 ahead after the first quarter.

Maintaining their momentum, Barnes’ forwards asserted dominance in the scrum, driving Bec Belles back and creating opportunities out wide. This pressure allowed the backs to execute another clean break, finished by Jeanette. Shortly after, Aisha powered over from close range, extending the lead to 22–0 at halftime.

The second half presented a new challenge as Barnes faced the uphill slope, while Bec Belles now had the advantage. Despite sustained defensive pressure and multiple phases of play, the hosts managed to score their first try. Barnes responded immediately, with Noor crossing the line, followed swiftly by Jenn adding another to bring the try count to six and extend the lead to 32–5.

Although Barnes continued to dominate the scrum and forced turnovers, Bec Belles showed resilience and claimed a second try. Undeterred, Barnes pushed for a final score. Aisha broke through the defensive line to touch down under the posts, allowing Liv an easy conversion as the final whistle sounded.

A commanding 39–10 victory saw the coaches describe it as Barnes’ best all-round performance of the season.

Cam was named Coaches Player of the Match for an outstanding display of resilience and determination, widely regarded as her best performance this season. Aisha earned Forward of the Match for her strength and impact, while Izzy was awarded Back of the Match for her composure and leadership in guiding the team.

Barnes 1XV now have a short break before their final game of the season on Sunday 26th April, away to Westcliff.