In preparation for their respective Challenge Cup matches both the Warriors and London Chargers played a trial match at Wasps FC on Saturday 21st January.

With the Chargers National Conference South Premiers and 4 time Challenge Cup participants the side new a tough assignment was on the way. Fresh off the win over Shaw Cross Sharks the week before the Warriors were coming in to the match with a National League scalp and a point to prove.

From the kick off the Warriors forward pack lead the way with strong carries from Dario Esposito and Hayden Nancarrow stating an early message. After a few exchanges the Warriors would be first to score as new signing Brett Stratton exploited some gaps out wide and finished off a nicely worked backline move.

After several exchanges in the middle of the field the Chargers bounced back, scoring out wide. The kicking boots had been left at home apparently and the score was locked at 4-4.

The deadlock wouldn't remain for long as Stratton crossed for his second only 4 minutes later. It wasn't much longer before the Warriors were back on the tryline pressing hard. Some solid defence caused errors on the Chargers behalf and Hayden Nancarrow was there to capitalise on a pass from Brad Aird close to the line. Then inspirational captain Vallance Katipa crashed over the line only 3 minutes later putting the pressure on just before half time. Vallance is departing London and goes out with a Premiership, the Harry Jepson Cup and an army of friends. His presence on and off the field will be missed by everyone at the club.

After half time the Warriors upped the work rate in defence, stopping several efforts close to the line. Scrambling line defence and a high work rate will no doubt come in handy next week in the Cup. The Chargers, perhaps frustrated at their lack of points, started to make mistakes and fullback Jarred Bassett was quick to make them pay with several long range runs. As the Chargers defence rolled back Wests struck twice with tries to Barry Dawson Williams and Jonny Bell within 10 minutes effectively ending the game.

Stratton rounded out his second game at the club with a hat trick and Bassett got some reward for his earlier yardage as he crossed with 4 minutes remaining in the game.

The final score 36-4 and a huge signal as to what the team can achieve when we work as a unit.

The efforts in the middle of the field won the day as players defended in numbers and with intensity. If the side take that sort of work rate into next week then we stand a real chance at progressing into the 2nd round.

A great afternoon at Wasps FC who hosted the match. Thank you to the supporters for coming down and braving the cold and thank you to the Chargers for the match. As London clubs we are right with you as you take on the Bridgend Blue Bulls next Saturday.

Tickets for the Triple Header can be purchased at:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/london-clash-2017-london-skolars-vs-london-broncos-tickets-30073632043

Kick offs:

1pm London Chargers vs Bridgend Blue Bulls
3pm London Skolars vs London Broncos
5pm Wests Warriors vs Great Britain Police

We hope to see you all there as we show the world we are all #init4london