With the league season all wrapped up, attentions were drawn to the Papa Johns National Cup last Saturday as Teddington made the short journey to play London Scottish in the first round. This competition in its various guises over the years has given the club some of its finest moments and there was much anticipation as the Antlers target a potential fourth cup final at HQ in May. London Scottish were recently crowned champions of Herts/Middlesex Counties 1, so this one was not being taken lightly despite Teddington’s fine form this season. Finally, the sun came out, and with the bagpipes playing before kick off the scene was nicely set. The game kicked off with Scottish dominating the territory but with nothing to show for their efforts as the Antlers trusty defence repelled the early pressure. Teddington began to grow into the game and midway through the first half they struck, scoring three try’s in quick succession, courtesy of Harry SMITH, Max AITKEN, and Sam RAWSTHORNE. In the blink of an eye, London Scottish had their backs against the wall and chasing the game. The sides turned around with the visitors 19-0 to the good. There was no letup in the second period as SMITH cut a great diagonal line, slicing through Scottish defenders before touching down and then AITKEN used a combination of elusive running and sheer power to put the game beyond the hosts. London Scottish scored a try of their own, but Teddington added 3 more, as Gabe ROBERTS scored after coming off the bench, a penalty try was awarded and in the final play of the game Angus BELL intercepted to score under the posts. Another mightily impressive performance from the Antlers, who now go into the second round where they will host Petersfield RFC who were also big winners in round one. Petersfield will come to Bushy Park as unbeaten Hampshire Counties 1 champions and full of confidence. A game not to be missed. Final Score London Scottish Lions 5 Teddington 50. Man of the Match Sam RAWSTHORNE