The First XV Men extended their unblemished league record last week with a convincing first-half performance that ultimately proved enough to beat a determined Newport side. This win puts us within touching distance of promotion as Champions, but there are still some mountains to climb. First of all, Newcastle. Newcastle away was probably the hardest game we have had so far this year. The game was only won in the dying minutes thanks to a try by Dean Harper. For those that remember, it was the game we took the bus to, sponsored by Map Talent, and was a rather raucous affair! If we beat Newcastle, we then travel to Burntwood next Saturday. They are currently second, and a win there would leave us in an unassailable position in the league table. Although we can’t be overconfident, we are now actively planning for next season back in the league above. This season so far has been a wonderful success, a true rebuilding job, and the coaches and players have been fantastic. People have said to me (not in our club), “You should not be in that league, you are far too good for it.” What I point out is the difference between us and Wolverhampton. We both dropped out of the same league into the same new league last year. We are now top; they are now bottom. There is no right to a league position, and when you drop, it is how you react and the actions you take that dictate what happens next. Our players and our new coaching team have reacted brilliantly, and our results are a testament to that.

The rest of the senior sides had a week to forget last week, sadly, with the Women, 2s, and Colts all going down against strong opposition. We know that we need to maintain the strength of all teams, and Sean Harrison, the DoR, is working tirelessly with all coaches to make sure results across the board meet our expectations.

On a more positive note, the Mini and Junior section is going strong, with teams doing well in the Warwickshire Cup and Plate competitions. It was my pleasure on Sunday to travel to Stratford-upon-Avon to watch the U15s win a Plate semi-final. Ben Bottomley and his coaches deserve huge credit for turning around a team that was in the doldrums a few years ago into a really formidable unit. Credit also to Alfred Fletcher (Jnr Fletch Number 2), who played really well at 7 and even scored a try…. Proud Dad!

Have a great day at SCRFC as always. Please remember to passionately support your side, but do not disrespect the opposition, coaches, staff, and most of all, the officials. It is getting harder every week to get referees, and frankly, I am not surprised some weeks. All spectators, coaches, and players should make officials feel welcomed and valued. They are a very precious commodity and one you will only truly miss when they are gone!

Fletch