WHAT a game of rugby it was between England and New Zealand.

A week after Eddie Jones’ side had the better of a controversial late decision against South Africa, they were left to rue the TMO as Sam Underhill’s try was chalked off with Courtney Lawes ruled to have been offside when charging down TJ Perenara’s box kick.

It was a really close call and I’m sure England fans would have been dismayed at the outcome, but their team put in a tremendous effort and when they were leading 15-0 Twickenham was rocking.

However, the All Blacks aren’t world champions for nothing, and they worked their way back into the game before Beauden Barrett’s second-half penalty proved decisive.

There were definitely plus points for England ahead of this week’s game against Japan, with Underhill outstanding, Chris Ashton scoring on his return to the side, and Dylan Hartley going over at the back of a phenomenal rolling maul.

On our club scene it was a quiet week as players had a chance to recharge their batteries, with London Irish the only ones in action.

They ran in five tries to kick-start their Championship Cup campaign with a convincing 35-7 win at Hartpury College, and will hope to follow up with another win at home to Cornish Pirates on Sunday.

National Two South table-toppers Rams face a big test when they travel to third-placed Taunton Titans, but if Seb Reynolds’ men can wrap up a 10th win in 11 games, they’ll really solidify themselves as title contenders. Best of luck to them.

My boys Reading – languishing 10th in the Southern Counties North standings – could do with a great performance and a fine win over eighth-placed visitors Bicester.

It’s the kind of game which could give us the boost we really require to get our season up and running strongly, so fingers crossed.

Reading Abbey, currently sixth, are also at home as they host Aylesbury, while Berkshire Shire Hall welcome Harwell to Sonning Lane in the BB&O Championship,

Have a great weekend and enjoy your rugby whether playing, going to a match or just watching the television coverage.