REALITY bit hard last weekend when Chesham Stags’ crashed out of the National Junior Vase in the quarter-finals.

The Stags had been on a gravity-defying climb through the rounds, but they were brought back down to earth with a thud following a 50-0 defeat to Newent.

In front of nearly 500 supporters, Chesham found themselves 38-0 behind at half-time before restoring some pride with a battling second-half.

Captain Olly Jaycocks said: “Unfortunately we didn’t play our best rugby in the first forty minutes. Newent were a quick, strong side and we didn’t react well enough.

“However, I feel that we can be proud of our second half performance. We really took the game to them and had a few close opportunities.”

But while the scoreline was an anti-climax, Chesham, who are coached by England women internationals Rochelle Clark and Kat Merchant, can still celebrate the best cup run in the club’s history.

Jaycocks said: “Overall I’m proud and honoured to be part of the first Chesham team to get this far in the cup, and it’s been a great run that we can remember with a smile.”

And for club secretary Steven Morris, the occasion was another high point in a season that could yet end with silverware.

He said: “Saturday’s game against Newent reinforced to me what a fantastic little club we have.

“We may not be the biggest or the best, but the spirit, camaraderie and attitude both on and off the pitch left me feeling very proud.

“When I turned up on Saturday morning to see volunteers from all sections of the club busily getting the club ready I was mightily impressed.

“We gave our visitors and the town a great show, and although the result didn’t go our way it was not for lack of commitment and passion.”

Focus now returns to the BB&O Championship and Saturday’s trip to Crowthorne.