Clive Stuart-Smith column

By Clive Stuart-Smith
Esher RFC scrum-half and BBC Surrey columnist

Stuart-Smith has started both of Esher's Championship matches so far this season

Leading into our match against Bristol we understood that all facets of our game had to improve by some margin from last week to avoid a heavy defeat. Our mistakes went unpunished against Moseley and this would not be the case against Bristol.

They had come off a very rare home loss and would obviously be full of frustration, which is particularly dangerous. We reviewed our performance against Moseley early in the week, which allowed us to nicely tuck a few demons up in bed.

Unfortunately, it seemed like we had left all our concentration and rugby nous in a little box in the changing room for the first 20 minutes. Giving a side too much respect, standing off them and allowing them to play is a recipe for disaster (much like boiling an egg in orange squash for three hours) and we were consequently 17-3 down without being able to get any grip on the game.

To put such a telling performance in front of our home support made it a really special day

Then something seemed to click, maybe someone had stumbled upon the little box we had left inside and allowed us to open it. We strung a number of phases together, which caused Bristol a lot of problems culminating in a well worked team try.

Our momentum snowballed and we didn't look back after our very pedestrian start. It highlights that the best form of defence is attack and it is paramount we have that from minute one.

There were a few scary moments late on when Bristol had an opportunity to snatch it at the death but their kick didn't quite have the legs. It was a huge step up in intensity and one that must remain with us in every game.

The atmosphere was fantastic and to put such a telling performance in front of our home support made it a really special day. Next, we travel to a very strong and exciting Bedford side. Goldington Road is always one of the hardest places to go as it has become a fortress over the years.

'Priscilla' poses for photographs in front of a scenic backdrop

Taking momentum into the game certainly helps but stands for very little if our attitude and execution are not right this weekend.

There are many talents throughout the squad ranging from firemen to stand-up comedians, property developers to juggling midgets. The stand out performer so far, however, has been "Priscilla White". Priscilla makes very rare appearances but when he/she does, people certainly know about it.

He/she has been entertaining us with some sterling vocals and, as it is X-Factor season, Priscilla would definitely enjoy a standing ovation by, not only the public, but also Louis Walsh. After much deliberation, we feel that he/she would be far more suited to the rather indulgent, overly erotic Moulin Rouge. The application is currently pending.