The challenge of any season is to be able to continually field competitive line ups as the availability of players ebbs and flows, but the league fixtures keep coming thick and fast. This week was one of those tests, where a large number of recent 1st XV regulars were not available.

The difference this season seems to be Teddington's strength in depth and that was clearly on show this week as the Antlers travelled to Effingham and Leatherhead RFC looking to maintain their 100% start to the league campaign.

There was a completely rejigged front row with the Antlers welcoming back Alfie Ransom, Dan Robertshaw moving up to hooker from the back row and most impressively Adam Price filling in at tight head, from his more familiar role out in the three quarters.

Despite the reshuffling, it was still a strong Teddington side, which was ready to take on an Effingham side more than capable of toppling the league leaders. Teddington's first points came early on when a fine team move was finished off by Robertshaw. Tight head Price adding the extras.

The Eagles hit back with a penalty of their own, but it wasn't long before debutant winger George Harrison went over to stretch the lead to 12-3 at the break.

Harrison, who was rewarded with this call up after a few eye catching performances in the 2's recently, went over shortly after the break to make it 17-3, but the hosts didn't let Teddington pull away and pulled it back to 17-8 with a try of their own.

Last week's Man of the Match Stuart Ridler went over to claim the try bonus point with 10 minutes to go. Price added the extras and the visitors closed out the final few minutes to secure a 24-8 bonus point win.

A great result against a tough side, Teddington now take their unbeaten record back to Bushy Park next week, when they welcome Old Amplefordians RFC. 

Final Score Effingham & Leatherhead RFC Teddington RFC 24. Man of the Match Chris DICKSON.

The 2nd XV were granted a walkover by the opposition in their league fixture during the week, which meant a last minute scrabble around to find a friendly fixture, so the team could have a game. Cobham 2nd XV accepted our invitation to host at Bushy Park and came with a very strong squad.

In all honesty this was always going to be a tall order for the Antlers with Cobham normally playing a couple of levels above where we normally do.

The game was played in a good spirit and the first half was a competitive affair, with Teddington restricting their guests to just two tries.

Unfortunately the pace, power and youthfulness of Cobham told in the second half as they ran out comfortable winners. The highlight for Teddington was a senior debut for last years Colt Josh Burson who put a Man of the Match performance in. 

Final Score Teddington 2nd XV 0 Cobham 2nd XV 63. Man of the Match Josh BURSON.