After a delayed start to their league campaign, the Sussex Babas finally got their first league fixture underway on Sunday, travelling to Crowborough to face Crowborough B in glorious sunshine on a beautiful Remembrance Sunday.

The Babas, a combined team bringing together players from Brighton, Burgess Hill and Steyning, were playing for the first time in new kit with the combined crests and colours from the three clubs. The boys marked the occasion with a strong sense of togetherness before a ball had even been kicked. The two-minute silence on the main pitch was impeccably observed by players, coaches and supporters from both sides as everyone took a moment to pay their respects.

When the whistle finally blew at 12.02pm, Crowborough were quite literally quick out of the blocks, scoring straight from kick-off with a tremendous 60-metre run. It was an early indication of the pace and attacking threat that would cause the Babas problems throughout the afternoon.

However, the early setback didn't deter the visitors. The Babas regrouped, found their feet and began to build some excellent phases of rugby, showing real determination and commitment.

Oliver Thring got the Babas on the scoreboard in the sixth minute, reacting quickly to a turnover and spotting a gap to break through the Crowborough defence. Further tries followed from Dennis Collinson, who produced a fantastic run from deep inside the Babas' own half, brushing aside three defenders, and AJ, who showed great strength and determination to break through two tackles after some excellent build-up play.

Despite Crowborough continuing to threaten with their pace and ability to capitalise on turnovers, the Babas went into half-time trailing by just 26–17, having put together an impressive first-half performance.

The second half saw the Babas continue to battle hard. Captain Chester Lane led by example, producing a powerful run that came agonisingly close to a try before eventually being stopped on the line. His persistence paid off in the 47th minute when, after a sustained period of pressure and several strong phases close to the Crowborough line, Chester powered his way over to score.

Crowborough, however, continued to demonstrate their attacking threat, with some excellent individual runs and quick handling from restarts allowing them to extend their lead. Despite the mounting scoreline, the Babas never stopped competing, continuing to tackle hard, work for one another and look for opportunities to get back into the game.

The final whistle brought an end to an entertaining and physically demanding encounter, with Crowborough B taking the victory 57–22.

While the result wasn't the one the Babas had hoped for, there was plenty to be proud of. The physicality shown across the team was impressive, but perhaps most encouraging was the teamwork and commitment on display from a group of players who, in many cases, have had very little time playing alongside one another.

This was an important first step for the Sussex Babas. Bringing together players from three clubs and developing them into a cohesive team takes time, but Sunday's performance showed plenty of promise, character and, most importantly, team spirit.

Finally, a huge thank you to all the parents and supporters who travelled to Crowborough, and to the coaches and volunteers from Brighton, Burgess Hill and Steyning who have helped bring the Babas together.

We look forward to building on this performance and welcoming our next league challenge this coming Sunday against East Grinstead.

Up the Babas!