As the team gathered in Korks Winebar on Friday evening, no one was under any illusions as to the size of the challenge we faced.

The squad had been depleted even further when fullback Simon Hawkins had to withdraw with a hamstring injury sustained on Thursday during training. Late changes had to be made, and former Wakefield ace Phil Maynard was called up for a place on the bench. Guy Hope was thrown in at full-back and had a sound game, despite very limited experience in that position. He was safe under the high ball, and did well to get involved in many attacking moves.

Prop David Hall drove through the night with Coach Mike Barnett after Hall first had to complete his shift driving a taxi in Harrogate. Luckily they were able to set off early after a woman threw up in his cab.

Gary Cassidy was given his first start of the season. Gary has been away on Army duty for a year, and was given the nod after Andy Brown failed to recover from an ankle injury. Scrum-half is certainly an area where we have plenty of back up.

Last year's young player of the year Peter Wright, is bound to come into contention at some point. We therefore have three players all worthy of a place in the starting line up, which may prove something of a headache for the selectors.

It was good to see Ian Carroll returning to the fold. He has been in Australia due to work commitments. During his absence there was the usual speculation as to whether he will have another year, or decide to step down. But he put in a solid performance when he came off the bench in the second-half, and will undoubtedly be a key member of the squad again this season.

In the end we were well beaten by a strong Exeter side, and the lads were disappointed not have imposed themselves more on the game. Most of all it was our probably our defence that let us down.

All teams look good when they are allowed to make easy yards and re-cycle quick ball. It is often a different matter when they are met with two or three hungry tacklers, who hit them hard and drive them back. Runners all of a sudden become less willing. Second and third phase ball starts to get slower, and errors start to creep into the attacking team's play, as they have eye on the upcoming defenders.

Despite the defeat, the whole team pulled together and descended on Taunton, to sample some of the nightlife. We were welcomed with open arms by the simple yet friendly locals, and a good night was had by all. It was only late on, that the team split up. Rob Whatmuff led a rebel tour in search of a more upmarket club.

The Spice Boy's gamble paid off. He and Dan Clappison were given the VIP treatment by none other Dermott Reeve. Cricket's number one TV anchorman was delighted to meet the Otley players, and accepted the invitation of night at Moonlighters next time he is in Yorkshire.

The rebel tour partly backfired however, as they all missed out on a late appearance by former Olympian Judy Oaks at the original venue.

The next morning we were counting our blessings that we had Ian Judd on board as a delicate situation had arisen that required his excellent diplomatic skills. The Hotel's computer had crashed wiping all records of drinks purchased the night before. A young member of staff was getting a little panicky, but Juddy was able to re-assure her nothing was amiss with his gentle words of wisdom.

On Saturday, we face Henley Hawks at home. We beat them two years ago after a tremendous performance at Cross Green, in the season they won promotion.

We have also been drawn against them in the 3rd round of the cup, so we will be looking for a couple of repeat performances that would put us right back on track. E-mail me at gas180@hotmail.com.