In a match filled with nostalgia and excitement, the BHRFC vets made their long-awaited return to the paddock. A bumper crowd basked in the late summer sun as the team secured their place in the Sussex Vets Cup semi-finals.

Reinforced by 12 mini and junior coaches and a few familiar faces from the past, the vets took to the field with a mix of anticipation, adrenaline and deep heat. A tunnel formed by mini and junior flag bearers welcomed the players, some of whom hadn't stepped onto the pitch in over two decades.

The opening 20 minutes were a tightly contested affair, thanks in no small part to the excellent officiating of James Robinson. Hill struggled to contain the impressive Alistair Moffatt, whose powerful runs and ability to evade tackles were a constant threat all afternoon.

Hill managed to break the deadlock with a try from Hill man of the match Gerard Basson, who went on to score his brace a little later in the game. Further tries from ex junior coach Jason John, and former 1st team wing Dr Pete Blenkarn, and 1st team captain Adam Rezazadeh, took the game away from Grinstead.

Thanks to EG for a great game played in the right spirit
James for excellent officiating
Gary for bringing the beers
The Top house for an excellent Chilli con carne
And, Andy for organising the music and Mascots

if you're over 35 and fancy a run out please email u14@bhrfc.co.uk next match January 4th 2025 (venue & opposition TBC)