If you have brought an extra layer or two, you have chosen wisely. It is a cold afternoon here at Penns Place as Petersfield prepare to face Chobham RFC in their thirteenth fixture of the 2025–26 campaign, and there is plenty on the line for both sides.

Today’s fixture is a huge one for ’Field as they continue their push for a play-off spot, but it carries just as much weight for Chobham, who arrive sitting 10th in the twelve-team league and still glancing nervously over their shoulder. Under the new league structure, the bottom side faces automatic relegation, while 11th must contest a relegation play-off against the runners-up from the division below. Chobham currently hold a seven-point cushion over Reeds Weybridge, but they will be desperate to widen that gap and take some pressure off heading into the second half of the season.

The raw numbers may suggest Chobham are far more comfortable than their league position implies. The Surrey outfit average 22 points per game, failing to reach double figures only twice this season, in a heavy 52–7 defeat to Old Tiffinians and a 32–0 loss to Tottonians. However, the other side of the story is their defence. Chobham have become increasingly accustomed to shipping points, suffering notable hammerings at the hands of Winchester and an eye-watering 82–19 defeat to league leaders Bournemouth just before Christmas. On average they have conceded 35.7 points per game, which sets up the possibility of a high-scoring contest if conditions allow.

From a Petersfield perspective, the picture is far more optimistic. ’Field have their sights set firmly on play-off rugby and currently sit sixth. A bonus-point victory today, coupled with a Tottonians defeat, would see Petersfield climb into fifth place, closing right in on Wimborne RFC, who conveniently sit next on the calendar for ’Field away from home next week.

Petersfield versus Chobham has also developed into a fiercely competitive fixture in recent seasons. Across their last three meetings, ’Field have claimed two victories, with Chobham taking one. When the sides first met in October 2024, their first meeting in 32 years, Chobham edged out a 29–24 victory despite being reduced to 14 men, punishing a below-par ’Field performance. Redemption followed later that season at Penns Place, where Petersfield ran out 29–20 winners in front of a raucous home crowd. That victory propelled ’Field into fifth place, a position they would hold for the remainder of the campaign.

Earlier this season, ’Field travelled to Chobham and were met by a low-scoring, attritional affair. Known for their powerful pack and uncompromising physicality, Chobham made full use of the cold and windy conditions to take an early lead. Petersfield responded with real grit, with tries from Dan Sargent, Jack Janaway and Matt McLean sealing a hard-earned 17–12 win. Given the weather forecast throughout the week, supporters can expect another wet and blustery battle this afternoon, where territory, discipline and resilience may prove decisive.

Chobham, though, are not short of quality. They possess real talent across the park, with several key performers likely to have a major influence on the outcome. Guy Mawhood, their captain and dangerous full-back, has caused ’Field’s defence serious problems over the past couple of seasons. Daniel Benton, a powerful number eight, makes his 80th appearance for the club today and will be keen to impose himself at the breakdown and carry hard through the middle. At fly-half, Noah Williamson offers a strong territorial kicking game and will look to turn Petersfield back all afternoon. Rhys Tulk, new to Chobham this season, has already delivered when it comes to try scoring, and his battle with Charlie Muir promises to be one of the most intriguing match-ups of the day.

After three weeks off to recover and reset, Petersfield have returned refreshed, and selection has been anything but straightforward. A welcome headache for Director of Rugby Matt McLean and a reflection of the depth and competitiveness within this First XV squad.

In the front row, Sam Janaway returns for the remainder of the season after a busy first semester at Oxford Brookes University, replacing Jackson Clark, who had featured in every match so far. Jacko steps away from rugby for now, and everyone at the club wishes him well, hoping to see him back in red and green before long. Sam Brown continues at hooker, with captain Dan Sargent completing a formidable front row.

The second row sees Liam Perkins return alongside the towering presence of Zac Conley, while the back row includes Greg Jansen in place of the injured Alex Robinson, joining Jack Janaway on the open side and Karter Whittock at number eight to round off a powerful pack that will be eager to match Chobham’s well-known physical edge.

For only the second time this season, Petersfield name an unchanged back line. Dan Chinnock starts at scrum-half, partnering Matt McLean at fly-half. In midfield, experienced campaigner Seb Tuff retains the 12 shirt, with Miles Sampson alongside him in the 13 jersey, forming a robust, balanced and dangerous combination. Out wide, Eddie Matthews and Charlie Muir bring real pace and finishing ability, while at full-back, Joe Knowles comes into the match in outstanding form after a hat-trick of tries and nine points from the tee last time out.

The bench also offers plenty of impact. Will Norton provides front-row cover and will be keen to make his mark when called upon. Young hooker Owen Davies is selected for his second senior appearance, while powerful centre Tom Blewitt adds a real point of difference in the backs.

All set then for an intriguing afternoon at Penns Place. With league positions, momentum and ambitions all in play, this one has plenty riding on it.

Team Sheet | Petersfield RFC vs Chobham RFC

Starting XV

1. Sam Janaway (Sponsored by Unordinary Oats)
2. Sam Brown (Sponsored by Michael Buckley)
3. Dan Sargent (C) (Sponsored by Newlyns Farm Shop)
4. Liam Perkins (Sponsored by Rugby Against Cancer)
5. Zac Conley (Sponsored by Barden FM)
6. Greg Jansen
7. Jack Janaway (Sponsored by Newlyns Cookery School)
8. Karter Whittock (Sponsored by Barrow Hill Barns)
9. Dan Chinnock (Sponsored by House of Furn Collective)
10. Matt McLean (Sponsored by MC Performance)
11. Charlie Muir
12. Seb Tuff (Sponsored by The Queens Head Sheet)
13. Miles Sampson (Sponsored by Somebody Digital)
14. Eddie Matthews (Sponsored by Barrow Hill Barns)
15. Joe Knowles (Sponsored by Tim & Clare McCullough)

Replacements

16. Will Norton
17. Owen Davies
18. Tom Blewitt (Sponsored by All About Flooring)

Keen to hear more ahead of todays game? Read our matchday programme through the document below: