Big Weekend For Senior Sides

SATURDAY PREVIEW

To be told by a rival coach that no other side has made as many line breaks against them should bring a sense of satisfaction. Unfortunately, after a 27–10 defeat to Bury St Edmunds, the overriding emotion was one of missed opportunity.
Our attack created numerous chances to put points on the board but our inability to finish them proved costly. Twelve entries into the Bury 22 yielded just ten points — a clear measure of how far we were from our ruthless best. The defining moment came in the second half: inches from the line, we chose the wrong option and with it the chance to close the gap to five points slipped away. Away from home, against one of the league’s strongest sides, completing in those moments is the difference between winning and losing.
Alongside our struggles in attack, we endured our most difficult day of the season at the set piece, which compounded the pressure we were under. Had either area functioned at its usual standard we would have placed ourselves firmly in contention. But when two major components falter, victory becomes a tall order.
The Pilgrims return to action on the road against Old Colfeians in Regional 2 South East. In a month’s time there will only be one game remaining in that league. Our ability to convert pressure into points during this decisive stretch will define our season. A strong squad is travelling for this 8th versus 9th encounter; it is the business end of the season and the Pilgrims understand what its going to take to come away with a result.
Meanwhile, the 1st XV conclude a challenging February with a visit from second-placed Oundle to the Marine Travel Ground for what, I am guessing, is the first time. Oundle have impressed in their debut season in National League 2 East, building their campaign on a powerful set piece and a cohesive forward pack, and remain firmly in the title race.
For us, this marks a final opportunity to record a victory over a top-three side this season. There is plenty at stake as we anticipate another compelling afternoon of National 2 rugby.

MATT CORKER, HEAD COACH