1) One sub doesn't cut it in the heat
In both 1st XI games this season, 12 OWs have faced 14 opposition players. In nearly 30 degree heat, the new repeated subs rule - that's repeated not rolling subs, as the most tedious man ever born repeatedly explained, despite nobody asking - gives a real advantage to the team that comes mob handed. It was a fantastic effort to keep going, but with Hogan having to hobble off, two further players carrying injuries and the rest pretty much out on their feet by the end, you can't help but wonder if another couple of pairs of legs would've made the difference. So fill in your availability on the website gents, and next week we'll hopefully come fully armed!
2) Looking like Gimli from Lord of the Rings doesn't mean you can't boss an Arthurian League fixture
Despite being 4 feet tall, slower than Ed Duncan running uphill with a hangover, and having a mullet that a hillbilly would consider 'a bit excessive', Old Salopian's middle-earth-themed number 10 showed a finesse and awareness unmatched by those around him. Constantly darting around the space between Gordon Baker and Jack Merriot (and what a fine space to be that is) the man known simply as "Jonesy" was all sharp one-twos and sumptuous through balls. One reverse pass to an on-running winger was so clever and precise the back four didn't know whether to turn and run back or break into applause.
3) Jack Wake-Walker doesn't know where Uxbridge is
Here's a hint - it's nowhere near Merton, where young Jack made his merry way on Saturday morning. An object lesson in the importance of attention to detail.
4) Waki is the new Ed Lascelles
Old Wykehamists, like all alumni of centuries-old preserves of elitism, are lovers of tradition. So it heartens us to see that the unspoken requirement that one member of the team must consistently and for no apparent reason arrive either five minutes before or after kick-off is being upheld by the current generation. When Ed Lascelles finally does retire to spend more time with his speeding tickets, he can sleep soundly knowing that in the venerable shape of Charles Wakiwaka, he has a skilled and noble apprentice. If Waki can add oversized motorcycles and pulled hamstrings to his armoury, his training will be complete.
5) Gordon Baker's seed is safeguarding the future of OWFC
With the recent arrival of his first son to add to the two girls in the Baker stable, a great OWFC legacy could potentially be in the offing. This writer is literally counting the days (6,574) until the 2030/31 season, when Bakers senior and junior are lining up at centre back together in OWFC blue. The sight of them charging upfield in unison, leaving a gap the size of Hampshire in their wake is sure to bring a proud Wykehamical tear to any passing eye. It almost makes me sad that the massive coronary I'm planning for around 2024 means I won't be there to see it.