MATCH PREVIEW
And just like that, ten weeks of pre-season come to an end. By this point players and coaches alike are always chomping at the bit for the league campaign to begin and this year is no different. Hard pitches and high temperatures have thrown up some scorching sessions, but in this game your ability to adapt is crucial. Over the last few weeks it feels as if the group has really pulled together, both in their understanding of how we want to play and in the way they interact with each other.
There are some new and returning faces In the team this weekend. Tomorrow’s squad includes two returning colts making their 1st XV debuts. Lucas Eule, back with us after studying Economics at Loughborough, starts his new career with Burgess Hodgson on Monday and takes his place on the bench today. George Trapp, also studying at Loughborough (we should be on commission) is on a placement year with Pfizer in Sandwich and makes his first 1st XV start at six.
It’s great to see Lewis Hollidge back in the side. After a few seasons playing rugby league in the north, he returns south with his young family and starts at fly-half. Max McCormack makes his first start at No 8 and Owain Collins earns a first start at fullback. Sam Rogers returns to the side at hooker after successfully completing his knee rehab, while Olly Ashley-Jones is set for his first appearance from the bench.
The Pilgrims have had their season delayed by hard pitches across the country and play their first friendly next week against Westcombe Park 2nd XV at the Marine Travel Ground. It will be a great chance to see some of the new and emerging talent in the squad. The extra time has allowed these players to upskill and the graduating colts have really started to find their feet and push standards forward.
Our battles with Old Albanians are always close-run affairs and our last meeting was decided by a last-minute penalty. OA’s left with the win, so if we want to start the season on the right foot we will need to deliver a performance to be proud of. There’s been a lot of hard work from the players — now it’s time to find out exactly where we are.
Matt Corker, Head Coach