The Club welcomed American touring side the Gentlemen of Aspen to the Utilita for a pre-season friendly under the Friday night lights that exemplified everything great about social rugby, with several players making their Club debuts in front of a strong showing from both sets of supporters.
The touring side from Colorado, who were founded in 1968 by former Club man Steve Sherlock, last toured internationally some 35 years ago, when they also faced off against Blackheath. As they arrived, adorned in cowboy hats and velvet smoking jackets, it was clear they fully intended to live up to their name.
From the opening whistle the Americans showed power and pace, leveraging a commanding set piece to open the scoring. Blackheath struck back, the powerful carrying of Cameron Squire building a platform to put captain and player-of-the-match Kai Roper-Blackman through with a well-executed backs move. Nathan Brindle was good with the extras to briefly give the Club the lead.
The Gents struck back though with some precise backs play, scoring four further tries in an entertaining first half – the latter scored by their own player-of-the-match whose dynamic carrying from centre was a menace all night. Jonny Moore pulled one back for the club, showing his pace to beat several defenders and race away.
The Gents opened the scoring in the second half and the physical defensive effort began to take its toll on the scoreboard. The Club would have the final say though, when a deft chip from debutant Oli Savill led to Roper-Blackman beating his man for his second score of the night.
Final score 19-48.
The Gents earned their nickname off the pitch, sticking around for a fine social, and alas, also snatching victory in the obligatory boat race. We wish them all the best for the rest of their tour.
Andrew Wylie
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