A top-of-table clash of the ages. Both teams come into this 5 from 5, but only winning will continue their unbeaten streak. Exeter University welcomes Luctonians in what is already shaping up to be a crucial match.

Last week EURFC visited Old Redcliffians, a venue we had never one at, against an opposition we last beat in September 2021. However, a team flowing with confidence is hard to stop, and that’s what the hosts experienced. A first half try from Woody Pugh was canceled out, but a score from Milo Hallam and a late Jack Park penalty secured victory.

Despite not being able to secure the bonus for the first time this season, these are certainly encouraging signs. Even if the game is tight, the boys know how to come away with the win.

This week we have the biggest fixture in Nat 2 West so far this season. Luctonians make the trip from Herefordshire to Topsham in a match where only one will emerge unbeaten. A huge victory over Loughborough last week has them in high spirits, teeing up the excitement of this match further.

TOMORROW’S OPPONENTS

Founded in 1948 as Old Luctonians, the club was formed by alumni of Luton School including England international Douglas Vaughan. Placed into the North Midlands Division 1 on the formation of the league structure in 1987, the club started slowly, reaming at that level in 1994. Things exploded from here, going 3 years unbeaten and reaching the Midlands 2 division.

In 2001 they got further promoted, before reaching the national leagues in 2010. A sustained period followed as they bounced around Nat 2 North, before being relegated in 2018. However, they bounced back immediately finding themselves in Nat 2 West, achieving their best finish at this level in 2023 (4th).

Luctonians have produced several world-class talents through their minis and junior sections. The list includes England internationals Jonny Hill and Tom Pearson, as well as Josh McNally and Seb Atkinson both plying their trade in the Premiership.

Key Players
Charlie Grimes – The winger has been in hot form this season, already scoring 8 tries and lighting up the league with his pace and finishing.

Ben Link – A familiar name to EURFC after his brace against us last season, the hooker has 2 hat-tricks already and is matching Grimes’ try-scoring record.

Louis Silver – Not only does this scrum-half kick, but he is crucial in managing the backs and bossing around the pack to get the best out of both.

TEAM NEWS

More players getting game time on a Wednesday as both the 2s and 3s kicked off their campaign this week, but Gareth Elliot still has plenty of class to pick from.

Alexander is joined in the front row by Elliot Young and Archie Rolls, both starting for the first time this season. Hallam is joined by Oscar Beckerleg in the 2nd row, whilst Tirion Bowen shifts from 5 to 7 to accommodate. Both Kelly and Triggs keep their place in the back row, with the former captaining.

Ollie Byrne starts with Jack Park this week, looking to ignite the partnership from the win over Dudley. Try scorer last week Pugh, is now joined by Ed Volley, who made his BUCS Super Rugby debut in mid-week. He is replaced on the wings by Kofi Barton-Byfield and Billy Kucera, with Hugo Ellerby returning at fullback.

The familiar figures of Webb, Arnold, and Gulley will cover the front row, with Rob Gordon the other forwards. Freddie Skinner is the only back cover, with a potential EURFC debut for the new man.

Our biggest game of the season is ahead, and we hope you can all join us for what has the potential to be an all-time classic.