Cinderford Meets League Leaders Ealing Trailfinders
Saturday 8th December (National 1 KO 2.30pm)
This Saturday, in sixth position, Cinderford RFC plays its only home game in December in what promises to be a nail biter game against National 1 league leaders, Ealing Trailfinders, who are also bringing their 2nd team for a double header fixture.
After a sterling performance against Sedgley Park two weeks ago, the Foresters picked up their second away win of the season and look to continue this form.
Andy Deacon, director of rugby said: “After a week off the guys are raring to go and fully refreshed after putting in two very good, intense training sessions this week. I was very pleased with the results and this was endorsed by guest coach Paul Moriarty from Gloucester Rugby, who was exceptionally pleased with the skill levels, application and the desire to improve.”
“This weekend we play high flyers Ealing who carry a side that has impressive attacking options across the team and present a tough opponent. Last year we were in a similar position but came away with a home win. If we can do this again it will boost confidence for the guys. But these are the types of game that we enjoy and relish allowing us to raise our game and rise to the challenge and be tested against the league leaders. I know that this fixture will be of a very high standard from both sides, especially following our recent strong performance. We have the ambition and drive to put ourselves in the top four, at minimum. History shows that we come strong in the second half of the season and I require this trend to continue, especially due to the fact that we don’t have another home game now until 5th January when we play Rosslyn Park.”
The side remains largely unchanged but sees Ben West, the on form lock, return after a back niggle to the second row. Stef Hawley moves the bench as they go for a traditional 3:2 split. George Evans is absent due to a knee injury.
Prior to the league game, Cinderford United play Ealing 2nds at 1.30pm in a double header.
Next week the team travels to Loughborough and the following week to Coventry.
In the absence of Gloucester being away this weekend to London Irish, supporters are welcome to come to the Cinderford game; with a discount for season ticket holders.
Cinderford RFC Team v Ealing
Backs
15. Mike Wilcox
14. Nev Codlin
13. Jack Adams
12. Rob Winchle
11. Lloyd Stapleton
10. Mark Davies
9. Sam Arnott
Forwards
1. James Brooks
2. Tom Bozzard
3. Joe Smart
4. Ben West
5. Dale Critchley
6. Luke Allen
7. Will Foden (C)
8. Joe Garner
Replacements
16. Leigh Green
17. Stuart Bailey
18. Dave McKee
19. Stef Hawley
20. Kai Done