The boys had a cracking start to 2023 last week when they beat their familiar foes Loughborough in the first clash of the new year. It took a second half try from Orson James to secure a narrow victory against their well-known rivals.

With the exam season in full swing, the boys are eager to crack on with the action of the second half of the National League season. This week’s away fixture to Stourbridge sees the boys make a second trip to the midlands this campaign. With a wet forecast ahead, it’s all to play for both sides.

Tomorrow’s opponents

Stourbridge have had a difficult season so far, with 8 points on the table, they have a point to prove tomorrow against the boys in green. The opponents will be determined to make an improvement after the reverse fixture at Topsham.

A successful season last year, Stourbridge finished in 4th place in National League 2, finishing with a points total in excess of 100 points. Their home form was particularly impressive, losing just once at Stourton Park, but they only won 7 from 14 away from home.

Despite the precarious nature of this division, Stourbridge have not changed leagues since getting promoted from National League 3 North nearly 20 years ago. Within that time, they have rarely come close to relegation, and have regularly challenged towards the sharp end of the table

Team News

The front row this week sees a variety of youth and experience as Jacob Morris makes a return to university colours, while fresher Oliver Webb comes in at hooker.

Milo Hallam, Will De Boehmler and Sam Higginson add further BUCS Super Rugby experience to the team.

The back line has been switched up this week with Jago Bailey starting at scrum half and Sam Walker at fly half. Meanwhile, Hugo Hughes is ‘really excited to get back on the pitch’ with the boys, with his first start this weekend since his PCL injury. Hughes is joined in the strong back line with Ben Hammersley and Benjy Joseland.

How to get there:

Follow the M5 and take the exit at junction 4 onto the A491.

Take the B4186 to Stourbridge Rugby Club.