On the 31st January 2020 27 intrepid members of the Lloyd’s of London RFC gathered at St Pancras International to embark on a 3-night jaunt to Paris. Braving poor weather and having successfully navigated customs on Brexit weekend, the Lloyd’s squad boarded the Eurostar brimming with excitement for what was to ensue.

With several first-time tourists in the squad, the two-and-a-half-hour Eurostar journey proved to be an excellent opportunity for the squad to get acquainted with one another, and no time was wasted in getting to know fellow tourist’s names and playing positions.
Following a quick stop at the hotel, the boys ventured out for some Steak Frites. Some excellent team bonding ensued before meandering back to the hotel to rest up for the morning’s game.

Early on Saturday morning, a sprightly touring party navigated the metro and successfully made it to the Parisian suburbs our match against British Rugby Paris, RFC.
Lloyd’s made a fine start when off the back of a scrum a Duffus crossfield kick was ably gathered by Crowder on the wing for a try under the sticks. However, Lloyd’s were pegged back straight from the kick off by some fine work from the opposition 8 and some weak defence from the touring side. In the lead up to half time the two sides traded tries leaving the score at 12 all before, off a first phase move centre Rob Pound, prompting memories of a young O’Driscoll, cut a scything line through the opposition defence, leading to an easy run in from 50m.

Throughout the second half, despite admirable work rate from our opposition, Lloyd’s superior fitness levels eventually prevailed as strong carrying from Baber, Ruff and Lynch led to run in tries for the Lloyd’s backline, with Stevens running in a fine hattrick.
Lloyd’s were victorious 52-19 and the post-match entertainment was fully enjoyed by the tourists. Following on from Lloyd’s victory the team joined the British Parisian Rugby Club to spend the afternoon watching the 6 Nations and partake in some hearty karaoke, with a spine-tingling rendition of the haka from our resident Kiwi Dan being a notable highlight, before returning to the Hotel in preparation for Rob Pound’s Paris walking tour on the Sunday morning.

Sunday began with Culture Club as the Touring Party took in the sights of the Eiffel Tower before a spot of Steak Frites in preparation for the eagerly awaited ‘Le Crunch’ at the Stade De France. Unfortunately, England could not produce the same display of running rugby that Lloyd’s had shown the day prior, and the result ultimately went in favour of the home side. Nevertheless, the atmosphere was still superb, and it was a thoroughly enjoyable occasion.

It was a very successful tour and spectacular 3 days in Paris. Thanks must go to all sponsors of the club for allowing us to take part, as well as our brilliant hosts. Hopefully LRFC will return here soon.