Halstead Templars Rugby Club coach Barry Poulter felt his team’s charity game against Harwich and Dovercourt seconds had set them up perfectly for their return to league action tomorrow.

Templars are due to be back in Greene King Eastern Counties League division three south action when they host Stowmarket thirds at Courtauld Road (kick-off 2pm).

And they warmed up by hosting Harwich’s seconds for a special charity day last weekend (see page 31) to raise cash for two good causes.

Despite Halstead losing 19-7, Poulter felt it was a good test in preparation for tomorrow’s game.

He said: “It was a proper game, played competitively but in the right spirit.

“Harwich were the better side on the day as they have proved when we’ve faced them in the league, but it was a helpful way to prepare for Stowmarket.

“Harwich’s forwards are tough and Stowmarket are similar so it was good for us to be up against a strong pack as games against Stowmarket are always hard-fought.”

Poulter thanked Harwich for the charity game and said almost £1,000 was expected to be raised from the day.

He added: “It went much better than we could have hoped and Harwich were fantastic.

“They really contributed to a good fun day and we’ve raised a good amount of money for two very good causes.”