Shelford's forwards laid the foundation for a convincing victory at the Davey Field against Barnes, the side against whom they battled for automatic promotion from London One last year.

Playing against the elements, Shelford started the game the brighter and the Shelford forwards put together a series of powerful surges down the left flank. The ball was moved quickly to the backs and Glynn glided through a gap in the Barnes defence for the first try of the game, which Gough converted. More pressure on the Barnes defence produced another try for the home side. George Perry charged down a clearance kick and Berridge combined well with Warwick Anderson, who barged over for Shelford's second converted try.

Barnes responded well and quick thinking from Barnes scrum half, Blake, created confusion in the Shelford defence. This allowed Gower to power over the Shelford whitewash for a try, which he also converted to reduce the arrears to 14 - 7 at half time. Despite concerted pressure on the Barnes tryline in the second half, Shelford scored only one more try, which came from a superb solo effort by Dominic Jones. When a training ground move saw the ball enter the wingers hands, he still had much to do.

Jones powered over a would-be tackler and rounded the Barnes fullback for the try of the game, which Gough converted. Barnes grabbed a late consolation try through Gower, but two penalties and a deft drop goal from Gough allowed the home side to seal victory and take away the points.  

Team: Glynn, Jones, Glitherow, Berridge, Bullen-Brown, Gough, Birkby, Kirkman, Erven, Ronaki, Mills, Ball, Jackowski, Perry, LeaSubs: M Anderson, Gregersen, W Anderson, Mann, McLintock Scores:Shelford: Glynn Try, Gough conversion (both 10), W Anderson Try, Gough conversion  (both 29), Gough Penalty (47), Jones Try, Gough conversion (both 64), Gough Penalty (73), Gough Drop Goal (78) Barnes: Gower Try, Gower Conversion (both 35), Gower Try (71) Attendance 250