Two different tests and both passed with distinction. In a year of exams, these lads are already proving they are more than ready for the challenges ahead.

We welcomed old friends Letchworth to Conningesby Drive, and they brought exactly the physical battle we expected. We don’t know what’s in the water up that way, but it certainly seems to produce some giant rugby players!

In years gone by, this Fullerians team may have wilted under that sort of physical test. This U16s team, however, are becoming a very different proposition. Some changes in personnel and position are beginning to pay dividends, and the squad is showing some major improvements.

The game had it all from a Fullerians perspective. Noah A finished well out wide, Rafe the Rhino was at his pick-and-go best, and there were some outstanding defensive goal-line stands. The surge defence caused knock-on after knock-on, much to the delight of the front-row coaches, who were living their best lives!

You make your own luck, and this week it was definitely on the Fullerians side. A misjudged kick through spooned off Olly’s boot and landed perfectly in the grateful hands of Tayler, who took full advantage to score his first of what would become three tries.

Olly and Luca also got themselves on the scoresheet, with Luca adding the extras with a perfect 100% from the tee.

There was a momentary lapse in concentration early in the second half which saw the try line breached and ended the defensive shutout. But rather than allowing that to derail them, the team stood up to the examination and actually strengthened as the game moved on.

The assist king this week was Lucas, who picked up a double. There was no single winner of the turnover golden egg either, with Tom, Olly and Rafe all getting their hands on it.

Perhaps most pleasing for us as coaches, though, came after the final whistle.

A new parent, who has a player with the Fullerians U6s, stayed on to watch the game and afterwards praised the conduct, performance and respect the U16s showed towards the referee.

We would expect nothing less from our lads, but it was still fantastic to hear — and a great reflection of the standards this group are setting.

Pre-season is now officially in the books. Two very different tests, two big steps forward.

Now the real examination begins.

League Game 1 — away at Royston.

Let’s go, Fullers.