It has been a positive season for men’s Rugby Union, with something on offer for each of the four teams at this late stage in the season. The wet weather of late has led to cancellations and a busy schedule in February and March, which contains some season-defining games for all four teams.
Since a spirited Varsity performance, the 1st XV have succeeded in surpassing their achievements of last season. Whilst a Varsity win has eluded them for the last three years, they have secured their place in the Northern Premiership for yet another year. With three league matches to play, there are fewer nerves than the relegation play-off against Bishop Burton at the end of last year. Notable results came in the form of an away draw at Northumbria and a home win against Nottingham. However, by far the most significant result came last week. Led by Luke Harris, who scored two tries on the day, the 1st XV overcame Nottingham for the second time this year to condemn them to a potential relegation play-off come the end of the season.
The 2nd XV have been the most consistent team in the club as far as results are concerned. With only one loss to their name, they are well-placed to win the league and achieve promotion for next season. After the top-of-the-table-clash against Newcastle, which is due to take place in the coming weeks, we’ll know more about the fate of the 2nds for next season.
The 3rd XV compete in the same league as the 2nds and have not been as successful in the league. A disappointing result at fellow strugglers Northumbria means two big performances are required against Sheffield Hallam and Durham if the 3rds are to stave off relegation. The team have excelled in the cup, winning twice on the road at Liverpool Uni and Northumbria to earn them a home tie against UCLan in the quarter-finals on the 17th February. Two more cup wins would mean a trip to Sheffield for finals day and the newly-dubbed ‘BUCS Big Wednesday’.
The 4th XV started strongly with a thumping victory against Teesside. However, a draw in the away fixture and a few narrow losses has left the 4ths mid-table (too much socialising perhaps). A 36-10 win at the end of January against Liverpool John Moores took the team through to the quarter-finals of their respective cup competition. Perhaps silverware is on the cards.
Sam Hawthorn
Featured image: The Gryphon