Match Preview

Dursley come hunting again.

Despite their form against us over the last few seasons, Dursley are always tougher opponents than you might imagine. We’ve always had respect for them along with that nagging worry that they might sneak a win. This is due to some cracking games over the last few seasons as both clubs have chased an elusive promotion spot.

Currently sitting mid table but with a game in hand they boast four wins from seven and could jump to 4th place with a win this week and will travel with that in mind. However, fresh from our excellent victory on the road last week at Cirencester, Cryptians will be looking to extend their lead at the top of the table and make it 9 from 9.

A great effort from the players of course, but behind the scenes there’s a lot of effort too as coaches already had plans in place for Dursley long before last week’s game. Three training sessions this week included one with local team Spartans, two leagues above us in Western Counties North. This involved live scrummaging, line outs and backs attack drills. I hear it was fiery and mentally challenging.

Thankfully for the lads, the other sessions were somewhat lighter but no less important. These covered many other areas such as technical, tactical, fitness and recovery. So, Jake and Gav along with physios Mike and Hannah continue to keep training interesting and varied.

Taking advantage of the excellent training numbers and performances in the seconds, the team this week shows a few changes. Chad Crosby returns after a mystery virus rendered him unavailable last week. As does Tom Brind and the formidable Phillipe Brown for his first team appearance this season after a nagging injury. Last weeks Man of the Match Harris taking a rest due to shoulder injury so young Stephens returns to openside whilst Crosby and McMahon start from the bench.

The Squad.

Forwards;

1. Kellaway
2. Saunders
3. Brice
4. Flounders, G
5. Flounders, Jack (C)
6. Ricketts
7. Stephens
8. Hurdle

Backs;

9. Trigg
10. Worrall
11. Langbridge
12. Jones
13. Brind
14. Flounders, Josh
15. Mustoe

Impact Players;

16. Brown
17. Crosby
18. McMahon

Your support as always is appreciated. See you there.