Jersey RFC Vs Doncaster Knights, The big one!

This game really has taken on astronomical significance in the life of Jersey Rugby Club. Its first visit to level two of the English league structure was always going to be decided with this the final home game, but has taken on even more significance with the fact that the team in most trouble are the visitors to St Peter. It's not quite win or bust, but the to the victor goes the spoils so the saying goes and the team who loses today will surely be facing National One rugby next season.

The Jersey team (yet to be announced at time of publishing) will be dependant on perhaps the two most influential players returning (hopefully) from injury. Former captain Nathan Hannay and fan favourite Guy Thompson have both been sidelined recently due to injury. A return will boost the whole club and will give a huge crowd an added lift even before a ball is kicked.

What of the opponents Doncaster? Eight years at this level, after a meterioric rise from level ten in the league structure has seen them compete consistently without setting the world on fire, but to be in this position when some had hoped they may even challenge for a play-off spot, has been hard to take for this proud Yorkshire side.

Despite some evidence to suggest that the club is possibly older, Doncaster Rugby Football Club was founded in 1875. It led a fairly nomadic life for its first half century playing at numerous sites around the area, even having a spell at the turn of the century when they joined the Northern Union.

Playing-wise for many years Doncaster Rugby Football Club were a solid if unspectacular Yorkshire side enjoying good and bad seasons alike. Its first taste of real success didn’t come until 1979 when it won the Yorkshire Shield, a knock out cup competition for junior clubs. At roughly the same time ‘Donny’ introduced mini-rugby and this has developed to such an extent that they now have over 400 junior members, making it the largest in Yorkshire and the most successful, in terms of county cups they have won.

Doncaster Rugby Football Club started the league rugby era in Yorkshire Two (national level ten) in its inaugural season in 1987/88, gaining promotion to Yorkshire One two seasons later. At this time Donny's Colts sides embarked on a remarkable run of four consecutive County Cup finals, two of which they won. This prompted the club to adopt a 'home grown' policy which still exists to this day. This policy was very successful and the club gained three consecutive promotions.

At the start of the 1996/7 season, their coach for the previous five seasons, Paul Morris, stood down to become Director of Rugby and they entered the professional era by employing former West Hartlepool and North of England lock Kevin Westgarth as their Rugby Development Officer/Player-Coach. The club hardly looked back as they won all 22 of their league fixtures that season to finish well clear at the top of North Two. They reached the final of the Intermediate Cup before losing to a disputed try in the final at Twickenham. For the first time in their history they also reached the final of the Yorkshire Cup losing to Sandal, four days after their Twickenham match.

In 1997/98 they finished second in North One on equal points to the winners New Brighton who had a superior match points difference. They again reached the Yorkshire Cup final, this time narrowly losing to Leeds at Morley. The Second XV won the finals of both the South Yorkshire Trophy and Northern Second XV Merit Table. The Junior Section won their Yorkshire Cup at Under 16’s and Under 13’s and drew at Under 12’s. Eight of their players represented the county including Richard Senior who captained the side.

The following season after a mid-season falter, Donny won their last seven matches and comprehensively beat the then league leaders Northern by thirty points in their last game in front of a crowd of over 2,000 to win North Division One, gaining promotion into the National Leagues, as well as winning the Yorkshire Cup by beating Sandal. Following this, in February of that year Donny were formally told that they were to receive a £1.8m lottery grant towards the cost of providing three additional pitches and a brand new clubhouse complete with 12 dressing rooms, a weight training gymnasium, a multi-activity suite, dedicated medical/physiotherapy facilities and social areas.

National Two became the level at which progression based on home grown talent was to prove a step too far and after finishing seventh a rethink brought Kingsley Jones, the former Welsh captain, to Doncaster as a playing Director of Rugby, who stiffened the squad significantly. Heartened by a fourth place finish, it was to be the launching pad for the coming seasons. Sadly though, Jones was to leave Doncaster to become forwards coach at Sale. The search for his replacement brought 33-cap former Springbok Pieter Muller to the club, and under his leadership the championship and promotion was won. This was the Club's eighth promotion in the 15 years of leagues in England and had never been achieved previously. The strength in depth within the Club was also reinforced as the Second XV retained the N2C league title they had secured the year before, and the Colts won the Yorkshire Cup for a second successive season.

The step up into National One took some time to adjust to. Home support was excellent, though, and the growing awareness of the club and its values around the area was noticeable. After 17 games, with just five wins and languishing in the bottom two, Peter Muller left the club. A panel of senior players under the guidance of Paul Morris took responsibility for all team affairs and there was a significant improvement in the later stages of the season, culminating in six wins in the last eight matches. The club finished with more wins (ten) and more league points (52) than any of the previously promoted clubs into the second tier. The final game saw club captain Rob Liley reach the 1000 point mark for the club from his four seasons, and the 2000 point mark in an illustrious career before retiring. Clive Griffiths, the Wales defence coach, joined Doncaster as the new Director of Rugby in June 2006, and immediately signed up Jason Forster to join him as forwards coach in a set-up that took its first steps towards professional rugby with over half the squad on full-time contracts.

The newly branded Doncaster Knights exceeded all expectations the following season. After leading the Division going into the New Year the Knights eventually finished in third place with 22 wins and one draw in 30 league matches. Silverware did appear when the Yorkshire Cup was won again, but that season high was tempered by the news that Clive Griffiths was to leave the club to taste Premiership rugby. Jason Forster retired as a player and returned to Wales. Their legacy, however, remains to this day.

A solid if unspectacular side, Donny have finished fifth, seventh, sixth and eighth over the last four seasons, well clear of relegation. They lay claim to be the most promoted club in England, (rising from level ten, Jersey from level eight). Quite how they have found themselves in this position after eight seasons in the second tier is a mystery to supporters as they firmly believe, like Jersey, that they are a better side than the table suggests. Even in the British and Irish Cup, four defeats have come with an aggregate losing margin of only eight points. Since possibly Jersey’s most frustrating defeat away to Donny, the Knights have lost seven from eight, but again can feel aggrieved at only picking up three losing bonus points, where four matches could realistically have been won.

The phrase ‘must win’ is a much overworked phrase, but in a game that neither can afford to lose, it really is a game that to preserve their status in the second tier of English rugby, Jersey have to come out on top. Relying on an away trip to the Cornish Pirates is not something the club would welcome so today’s match really is the crunch. If Jersey’s players and supporters are coming to see a big win over a side beaten, dejected and in poor form, then they need to seriously think again. This is a side who still believe that they can beat the drop, still with a game in hand, and much like our own side feel that the last two home matches should have yielded far more than they received. Only a big victory for Jersey would relegate Doncaster so mathematically it may not be over whatever the result, but realistically Jersey would be safe with a win, as Donny would need big wins away at Bedford and home to Plymouth in the coming week. Due to the weather the final three games in the space of seven days would surely be too much to ask.

Former Welsh supremo, Clive Griffiths returned mid-season, just before the Jersey game, and whilst results have not followed, the defence was shored up and performances improved. The difference in the two sides is marginal at best. Jersey would appear to be the side on the up and in better form but today is a day that the supporters also need to bring their A-game and in big numbers. We turned up in force for the Bristol game, and all saw how close Jersey were in upsetting one of the biggest sides in the country, not just this division. The players and coaching staff have reiterated how important the ‘Fortress St Peter’ factor is, none more so in what is arguably the biggest game ever to be staged in Jersey. On the pitch what we will have in abundance will be heart, but also both sides do possess a great deal of skill that has been hampered by the heavy pitches in what seemed like an endless cold wet winter. Jersey has what it takes to edge this clash but it will not be for the fainthearted.

 

 

Who to look out for.

 

Matt Challinor (captain).

Second Row.

At six feet five and over 18 stone, Doncaster captain Matt Challinor has been an ever present this season for the Knights having started all 19 league games to date. Signed back from Rotherham two seasons ago where he was a player’s player of the year in 2010, the former England under 18 and 20 player has also represented Yorkshire. Once on the books at Leeds, Challinor has been in fine form all season with a number of impressive performances and has recently committed his future to the club after signing a new contract for the next two seasons. The previous coaching regime had no hesitation in asking him to step up from vice-captain to skipper the side for this campaign, having played for Donny in the lower leagues.

 

Dante Mama.

Centre.

Utility back Mama, spent time dual registered between Leicester Tigers and Nottingham. Whilst completing his studies at Loughborough University he also turned out for a very successful ‘Students’ side. Mama was a try scoring part of the Championship Select XV who faced the New Zealand Maori All Blacks at Castle Park last November which included our own Nathan Hannay, having also scored a try for Donny in the home win over Jersey that same month. Priding himself on the mental and physical fitness sides of the game, he is comfortable at both full-back and on the wing. The Nigerian born flyer is also a former Zimbabwean under 18’s and 20’s star, having represented the Great Britain student sevens team, in the World Student games last summer.

 

Tyson Lewis.

Wing.

Donny’s top scorer this season with six tries in the league, matching our own talismanic figures of Guy Thompson and Nicky Griffiths, as well as a couple in the B and I cup. Law graduate Lewis 26, notched an impressive 34 tries for Blackheath during his two seasons with the National One outfit, winning coach’s player of the year awards during his time there, finishing third in the try charts in his second year before stepping up a level to join Plymouth for last season. A talented sevens player, the speedster was one of only two non-Premiership players nominated for the J-P Morgan series player of the year. Lewis joined the Knights at the start of this season scoring the opening try against Jersey at Castle Park when the two met in November.

 

Michael Keating.

Full back.
A product of the Leinster academy, 24 year old Irishman Keating signed last year for the Knights and was pitched straight into the fray when he made his debut in the starting XV against Bristol in the first game of the season. Keating's chances at Leinster were limited due to their first-choice wingers being established Irish internationals Shane Horgan and Luke Fitzgerald, but the former under-20 Irish international  made a big impression on the Championship, scoring ten tries in his debut campaign last year. A shoulder Injury earlier this season has hampered his progress, but he won the man of the match award in his first match back this January to underline his importance to the side.

 

James Tincknell.

Centre/Wing.

Once on the books with Leeds when they were in the Premiership, Tincknell is a former Wharfdale player, one of three in the Donny squad who turned out for them at St Peter last season. Rated as one of the most promising young players in the country, making 13 Premiership appearances before he was involved in a car crash in early 2011. He was in a coma for over a month, before winning the 2011 Blyth Spirit Award, from the Rugby Players’ association. After a long hard recovery that saw him loaned back to hometown club Wharfdale, the six feet four powerhouse scored four tries in ten appearances last term. Only been in the game for five years after giving up professional cricket with Durham, he clearly still has a very bright future.

 

Jamie Lennard.

Fly-half.

Much travelled Fly-half Lennard is back at Doncaster for his second stint at the club after three years away having secured a two year contract with London Irish following his last spell. Lennard is a point scoring machine for the Knights, he has amassed 130 points in 18 league appearances for Knights this season and is one of the divisions best place kickers having notched a record total of 298 points in his last season at Castle Park, earning him the move to Irish. Comfortable at full back, he was also on the books at London Welsh, Worcester, Moseley, Rotherham and last season Bedford, he also represented England under 21’s and at student level.

 

Adam Kettle.

Back Row.

Fans favourite Kettle has been a stand out performer this season for Knights with a series of strong performances. The recruitment consultant has lots of Championship experience having turned out for Bedford, Plymouth and Rotherham in his career. Now in his second spell with the club, Kettle has formed a strong back row partnership with Will Hafu and Chris Planchant that has flourished in recent weeks, known for his powerful ball carrying and big tackles, he is sure to cause Jersey problems.

 

 

 

 

Jersey RFC Vs Bristol RFC

Bristol Rugby.

 

Bristol Rugby have been one of the better sides in this division in recent years, topping the regular season table twice in the last three years, including last season. Having a slow start they zoomed back into play-off/promotion contention, currently sitting fifth and three points behind Leeds in the final play-off spot. They would have been much better set had they not lost their last two matches, along with the manager, who paid the price for blowing a 14-0 lead in defeat at struggling Moseley. A game Jersey will be hopeful of points even if noone outside the club expects anything other than a defeat, the upsurge in form will test Bristol's resolve far more than the reverse fixture earlier in the season.

A brief history of Bristol.

Bristol Rugby Football Club was formed in 1888 when the ambitious Carlton Rugby Club invited rival clubs, Redland Park and Westbury Park, to join in forming a representative city team. Westbury initially decided against the merger, although after they folded a few years later many of their players ended up at Bristol anyway.

Bris’ had a mixed start to life in the rugby family, but under the guidance of their charismatic captain, W. Tommy Thomson, a corner was turned and in 1891/92, wearing the familiar navy and white hooped shirts, the Bristol team won twenty games out of twenty four, thus becoming an established club.

By the turn of the century the biggest clubs from England and Wales were regular visitors, and it was around this time that they signed James "Darkie" Peters. Peters was the first black player to represent England. An outside half, he made 35 appearances for Bristol from 1900 to 1902, scoring twelve tries.

The club was mothballed during the First World War, but after the war a Bristol United side was formed to provide rugby for returning servicemen. This led to the rebirth of Bristol Rugby in 1919. Their home at the County Ground was no longer available for games so the Club rented a field at Radnor Road, Horfield, although occasional matches were staged at Bristol City and Bristol Rovers football grounds. Radnor Road was only ever going to be a temporary home, so in 1921 the Memorial Ground was opened. This venue, dedicated as a memorial to local rugby players who fell in the war, has been the Club's home ever since.

In what has been termed 'The Blake Era', outside-half John Blake became captain in 1957 and under his inspirational leadership the club which was developing an entertaining running style of rugby, involving backs and forwards, began to set the standards. This fast fluid formula was years ahead of its time. The Bristol club set and broke records for wins in a season and points scored, with goal kicking forward Gordon Cripps rewriting the individual points scoring records.

The club hit a phenomenal high in 1965/66 when 39 games were won, and again in 1971/72 (which was the Club's best ever season), with a thousand points being scored for the first time, and the team being crowned unofficial English and English-Welsh champions. The seventies were halcyon days with many players representing England, and this continued into the following decade when they beat Leicester to win the John Player Cup in 1983.

Bristol adapted poorly to the new league rugby structure, as the administrators of the club failed to get a handle on the professional era. In 1998 relegation was the least of their worries as only benefactor Malcolm Pearce saved the club from financial ruin. Despite this uncertainty the club bounced straight back to the top flight at the first attempt, after an impressive season where virtually a whole side made debuts during the campaign.

Head coach Bob Dwyer assembled a fine side for their Premiership campaign, which despite World Cup disruption (where Bris' had seven representatives), they finished a more than successful season in sixth place, narrowly missing the European Cup places, as well as semi-finals of the Tetley’s Bitter Cup where they lost to eventual winners Wasps.

A strong Argentine influence was growing at the club, with new signing Felipe Contepomi joining the already established Agustin Pichot and Eduardo Simone. Despite a slow start, ten games undefeated including wins over the champions Leicester followed. Ninth place was respectable and growing attendances showed the playing style of the club was improving also.

Before the start of the 2001/02 season, changes that were to put the club on a new level were put in place. The Club had a new name, Bristol Shoguns, thanks to a record breaking sponsorship package with giants Mitsubishi. The team also saw the arrival of some of the game's most promising talent, along with experienced internationals such as Julian White and double world cup winning centre, Jason Little being brought in.

Despite a mixed start, the Memorial Stadium witnessed some breath-taking rugby during the second half of the season. With the Shoguns finishing the season with the most bonus points in the Premiership, three players in the top try scorers chart, a place at Twickenham in the final of the Zurich Championship, and also a place in the Heineken Cup for the following season.

Unfortunately the bubble burst as stars such as Dean Ryan left the club, Little retired and DoR Jack Rowell returned to Bath. Pearce withdrew his funding, despite the lucrative sponsorship deals put in place the previous year. The club now stared down the barrel of extinction for the second time. With a squad comprised mostly of under 21 players the club was saved, but relegation followed. Life in the second tier began under the guidance of former England great Richard Hill, winning promotion back to the Premiership in 2004/05.

Surviving their first season back in 11th place, the 2006/07 season had Bris' tipped for relegation. They surpassed all expectations by finishing in an extraordinary third place, losing in the semi-final of the play-offs to Leicester. Sadly this was to prove a one-off as a lack of funding, and difficulties mainly off the field, due to renovations of the Memorial Field, led to another relegation in 2008/09.

Back in the second tier, the following season they again topped the regular season table, but this time had to negotiate a somewhat bizarre eight team play-off for promotion. Despite not always playing well, they negotiated themselves to a two legged final with Exeter Chiefs, who put Bristol to the sword winning by a convincing 22 points on aggregate. The following season, whilst much was expected, failed to bear fruit. An indifferent start led to a poor season, which saw them escape the relegation play-offs by only three points. Despite this poor return they still made the promotion play-offs, but this time winning only once. Last season saw them bounce back in fine style once again, sitting proudly on top of the regular season table for the second time in three seasons, and topping their play-off group unbeaten. However, a crazy 14 minute period in a 45-24 defeat in the semi-final first leg when they shipped 28 points (against Cornish Pirates) meant that a 29-18 home win was to see them fail once again, as London Welsh who finished 14 points behind in the regular season, and below them in their play-off group were promoted.

Bristol in 2012/13.

The best supported club in the division in terms of numbers, they average over 1400 more than any other team, well over double Jersey’s average in this rugby hot bed. Steve Lansdown now owns the club and has announced they will soon share homes with Bristol City FC, either at their current ground, or new stadium to be built. The signing of Premiership players and the drive to attain more is a clear indication that Bris’ are thinking very much for a return to the top flight, be it this season or next. Changes in the promotion structure have been put into place for this season, much driven by the Bristol hierarchy, and this has seen the Bristol side recover from a slow start to be entering what would seem to be promotion challenging form. Former Head Coach Liam Middleton made it no secret that he had a plan in place, perhaps looking at the London Welsh model when they peaked at the end of the season. The early season home win over Jersey would appear to be the defining moment of the season, although the signing of former England and Scotland head coach Andy Robinson (who initially joined as the Director of Rugby) cannot be ignored. Prior to the Jersey game the Bristolians had lost five and won only three of their first eight games, but a six try haul against the Reds (who were down to 14 men for most of the second half) began a sequence that saw them race up the table, losing only once in the following eight, before in-form Nottingham won narrowly.

The British and Irish cup also appears to have been taken seriously, fielding strong sides in winning all six pool matches, rewarding them with a home quarter final against the winners of Jersey’s pool, Leinster. The Moseley defeat last week however, cost Middleton his job, with Robinson taking over, and it remains to be seen what effect this will have on the West Country side. A play-off place seems well within their grasp, especially looking at their upcoming fixtures, which whilst always tricky in this league, most seem winnable. Bris’ away form of three wins and five defeats would suggest that Jersey could sneak some points from this game, especially after Bris’ defeat at fellow strugglers Moseley and our own performance last week versus Nottingham. There is now real belief both on and off the pitch that Jersey can and will survive. A lot of hard work needs to be put in before then, but in this, the penultimate home game, a point’s return would be a hammer blow to Doncaster who are currently six points adrift.

Bristol, who to look out for:

Rhys Lawrence.

Hooker.

Twenty fours year old, English born, raised in Swansea, Lawrence signed from Llanelli RFC and the Scarlets. In 2008 he won six Welsh under 20 caps, including a Man of the Match against Ireland during the Six Nations. He appeared in the first U20's World Championship in 2008 hosted in Wales, playing in three pool games before injury ended his tournament in the game against France. In his second season with Bristol, and with three tries this season he has already matched last season’s tally. He has a solid set piece along with dynamic carrying with some good touches in attack. More-so he has regularly been a top defender. Popular with the home support, is work rate around the rucks cannot be underestimated.

 

Ruki Tipuna.
Scrum Half.

Tipuna, born in New Zealand, previously played for the Bay of Plenty Steamers and Wellington (where he played against the 2005 British and Irish Lions). He also pulled on the shirt for the Hurricanes and in Wales for the Scarlets. A vastly experienced number nine, Tipuna has also represented arguably the best sevens team, New Zealand and the New Zealand Māori teams, having captained the All Blacks all the way through the junior ranks. In August 2011, Tipanu joined the Scarlets on a short term contract, before joining Bristol Rugby in November of the same year. He immediately became first choice scrum-half at Bristol, making twenty appearances. Sharp around the fringes, he will cause any opposition no end of problems.

 

Jack Gadd.

Centre.

At 6 feet one and 108kg, Gadd was with the Bristol Academy for the last few seasons, having joined the club in 2009. He has represented Wales at U18 and U20’s level, playing a key role in Wales’ U20’s 2011 Six Nations campaign. Gadd made one appearance during the 2011/12 season, featuring against Ayr in the British and Irish Cup before requiring two operations last summer to correct a hip condition he has had since birth. But after a year of recovery he has now been first choice for the former manager this season, impressing as one of the ‘young guns’ in the Bristol side, having taken his opportunity due to early season injuries to previous first choice players.

 

George Watkins.

Winger.

Another home-grown talent, Watkins has just signed a new contract having made 80 appearances already in his short career. Born in 1990, Watkins enjoyed a hugely successful 2011/12 campaign, cementing his place in the first team with a series of impressive displays having joined the Bristol Academy in 2009.Watkins made 26 appearances for the Club last season, finishing as top scorer with 13 tries. With nine tries to his name this season (six in the league), he is the clubs top scorer once again, and quite astonishingly he is fourth highest overall for Bristol in competitive games with 39, and quite clearly has a bright future ahead of him.

 

James Grindal.
Scrum Half.

Born in 1980, captain Grindal has been capped by England at Under-21 level. He attended King Henry VIII School in Coventry where he partnered England international Andy Goode, who he was later to partner again at Leicester some years later. Grindal initially joined Coventry but before long he was off to Leicester Tigers where he made his first-team debut aged just 19. He could not quite cement his place in the first team only making 21 appearances in his three years he was at the club. This prompted Grindal to move to another Premiership club, Newcastle, where he made 106 first-team appearances, many partnered with World Cup winner Jonny Wilkinson. He was called into the England Saxons side that defeated Ireland in 2008. On 25 June 2009 it was confirmed that he would return to Leicester, before joining Bristol at the end of the 2011/12 season. With three Premiership titles, two Heineken cups and a Powergen cup, Grindal has the wealth of experience needed to gel Bristol’s young side together.

 

Tristan Roberts.
Fly half.

Prolific point’s scorer Roberts, has represented both the England Students and the England Counties XV. He was selected to play in the same RFU representative side as our own Nathan Hannay earlier this season. Originally at Bristol, he moved first to Cinderford before signing for Premiership side Gloucester. Whilst there he duel-registered with Doncaster, and for Moseley, where he was the RFU's leading points scorer in 2009/10 despite Mose finishing only eighth, also helping them to win the National Trophy in 2009. Resigning for Bris’ in 2011, he notched 245 points last term in his 23 appearances. With an exciting running game to add to his kicking prowess, he is definitely a danger man.

Jersey RFC Vs Nottingham RFC

Jersey Rugby Versus Nottingham Rugby, Part Deux.

 

After the farcical circumstances surrounding the first attempt at getting this match played, Jersey versus Nottingham part deux will take place this Saturday, snow permitting of course. Where we basked in beautiful sunshine at the last non-event, it will most likely be replaced by drizzle and bitterly cold conditions. Nottingham will find Jersey in fine fettle having recruited well prior to the transfer deadline, and having the bonus of a first away win last Saturday in Plymouth. Relegation fears were eased if nowhere near eradicated with Doncaster’s defeat over the same weekend; Saturdays match is the first of a Jersey triple header against play-off hopefuls, with Bristol (home) and Newcastle (away) where the pressure will be off the Reds, before the season showdown against Doncaster. The ‘one trick pony’ tag referring to Jersey ability to only win in the mud has been laid to rest, and with eight tries in the last two matches confidence will be climbing.

 

Nottingham in 2012/13

After head Coach Glenn Delaney's departure in the summer after seven years, joining London Irish as Forwards Coach, a new head coach, former Bath Lock Martin Haag was appointed. The 47 year old played nearly 300 games for Bath winning two England caps in that time, both against Argentina in 1997. He has coaching experience both at Bath and in the England Under 18 and Under 20 set-ups.

 

Nottingham Rugby has attracted the tag of the most exciting team in the division. This is backed up by having four of the leagues’ top eighteen try scorers, with captain Brent Wilson only two behind overall. Very strong at Meadow Lane, losing only once and giving good thrashings to London Scottish, Bristol, Doncaster as well as putting 48 points on Jersey earlier this season. Any regular season championship challenge has been curtailed however with a less than convincing performance on the road, losing all bar one of their matches against their play off rivals whilst only beating the struggling sides. Having said all this, those of you who tuned into the recent televised match against Bedford will realise that the 25-17 score line flattered Bedford, and that Nottingham are a side who when they get going will tear teams apart. The form guide showed that they had won six in a row before a shock loss to Scottish that saw them lose second temporarily before turning over Bristol in Bristol. Despite this, there appears to be real belief in the home camp that Jersey can get something out of this match, buoyed on by a big vocal partisan crowd, (there will sadly be a lack of visiting support for the ‘rematch’) and with home matches scarce, points are becoming an increasingly valuable comoditity. Nottingham are without doubt a classy act, but with only Newcastle lowering the home colours in the last five, and Nottingham losing four from seven league matches away from home, another shock is not beyond the Reds.

 

 

Jersey RFC vs Nottingham RFC

High flying Nottingham come to St Peter on Saturday 16th February, to take on a Jersey side boosted by four wins in the last five at home. A game that could see Jersey put real daylight between themselves and bottom club Doncaster with a result that would really announce the arrival of the Reds in English rugby's second tier.

History of Nottingham Rugby

 

The generally accepted date of the formation of Nottingham Rugby Football Club came about when 16 year old Alick Birkin returned to Nottingham from Rugby School in 1877. The club was formed by Birkin gathering some of his friends around him who wanted to play, and thus formed a rugby team. Despite this fact, the earliest reports of matches in the local press weren’t published until 1885/86, and the first minutes of an AGM only date back to 1898.

Birkin, or Sir Alexander Russell Birkin to give him his full title, maintained an active interest in the club until he died in 1942. It was not the end of the Birkin association however as his family members continued to be associated with the club up till 1956.

It was this family’s staunch commitment to the club that not only ensured Nottingham Rugby’s creation but guaranteed that there was a continued rugby presence in the area. Even their previous ground at Ireland Avenue, was given to the club in 1904 by Alicks brother, Leslie Birkin. Ireland Avenue remained the club's home until its sale in 2006.

Basic amenities took a while to be developed. The first changing rooms were only built in 1929, the players having previously changed in the Victoria Pub. An undisclosed ‘incident or incidents’ caused their banishment to the stables, where both teams shared a single domestic bath. I’m not entirely convinced the current players would approve of that setup!

The ground was part of the flood meadow of the River Trent, and throughout the first 75 years of its use, it was noted as a mud pit. The high water table in the area made it difficult to drain and the problems were exacerbated by alterations to the Rivers Trent and Leen. Eventually these problems were overcome after spending £15,000 in drainage some 20 years ago.

Despite a lack of silverware Nottingham has had its share of talented players, V.H. Cartwright (14 caps) was Nottingham's first international, playing from 1904 to 1906. He captained England before becoming a referee, then moving onto becoming  a selector and eventually President of the RFU. In the club's heyday, in the late 1980s, they had a number of top international players representing the first XV. These included Simon Hodgkinson, Rob Andrew, Dusty Hare, Chris Oti and Brian Moore (who also became a British Lion whilst in Nottingham colours) representing England and Chris Gray representing Scotland. Slightly earlier than this David Jones played 19 times for Wales, and is still working within the club to this day.

In a sadly all too familiar story, the advent of professionalism saw the Green and Whites fall on hard times, and the first XV narrowly avoided relegation into the regional divisions in 2002/03. The club has bounced back strongly since then and was promoted into our current league (then called the National League One) in 2003/04. The club finished a creditable seventh in 2005/06 before leaving Ireland Avenue after 102 years to reside at the Meadow Lane ground they share with Nott’s County Football Club. Finishing in the top five every season since 2007/08 there is real belief that this team can mount a serious challenge in the end of season play offs where barring a huge loss of form, they seem set for a place in the semi finals.

Nottingham in 2012/13

After head Coach Glenn Delaney's departure in the summer after seven years, joining London Irish as Forwards Coach, new head coach and former Bath Lock Martin Haag was appointed. The 47 year old played nearly 300 games for Bath winning two England caps in that time, both against Argentina in 1997. He has coaching experience both at Bath and in the England Under 18 and Under 20 set-ups.

Nottingham Rugby has attracted the tag of the most exciting team in the division. This is backed up by having four of the leagues’ top fourteen try scorers, with only last weeks opponents Bedford scoring more tries overall. Very strong at Meadow Lane, losing only once and giving good thrashings to London Scottish, Bristol, Doncaster as well as putting 48 points on Jersey earlier this season. Any championship challenge has been curtailed however with a less than convincing performance on the road, losing all of their matches against their play off rivals whilst only beating the struggling sides. Having said all this, those of you who tuned into the recent televised match against Bedford will realise that the 25-17 score line flattered Bedford, and that Nottingham are a side who when they get going will tear teams apart (let’s hope for another mud bath). The latest form guide showed that until last weekend they had won six in a row, but their shock loss to Scottish that saw them lose second place in the table will no doubt be a kick up the backside that will bring their all guns blazing attitude to St Peter today. There appears to be real belief in the camp that Jersey can get something out of this match, buoyed on by a big vocal home crowd, and with home matches looking scarce points are becoming increasingly valuable. Nottingham are without doubt a classy act, but with only Newcastle lowering the home colours in the last five, and Nottingham losing four from six league matches away from home, another shock is not beyond the reds.

 

 

Who to look out for.

Tim Streather.

Wing/Outside Centre.

The most prolific play-off try scorer in Nottingham history makes Streather a player who can be relied on in big occasions. Even in an injury hit campaign, the versatile back, who is comfortable at either centre or on the wing, coupled with his love for flamboyance, was an outstanding contributor during the last campaign. From his 69 games spread over three seasons with Nottingham, Streather has notched up 160 points. Streather was a prized find coming to the club from Worcester in 2009, immediately taking player of the season honours. At only 23 years old, and despite breaking his hand against Jersey in October, he has eight tries already this season which sees him joint top at the club with Captain Brent Wilson and only two behind Leeds’ David Doherty.

Brent Wilson. (c)

Flanker.

At close on 17 stone and six feet four, Wilson (31) is a more than imposing back rower, having already notched eight league tries this season. Wilson was born in Napier, New Zealand. He previously played for North Harbour in New Zealand before moving to England in 2006, playing 84 matches for Newcastle Falcons in the Premiership before moving to Nottingham for last season. Captaining the side, Wilson is having a cracking season having scored more tries this season than in his five years with the Falcons. Described by manager Hagg as having an overwhelming desire to win, is incredibly self motivated, leads by example, is the consummate professional in the way he prepares himself physically, and is a constant performer under pressure, is praise indeed. Not a player to be taken lightly.

 

Rhys Crane.
Winger.

Crane joined the Green and Whites in 2011 having previously represented Bath and Sale Sharks. Bringing with him a degree in Sports Science he has undergone a tortuous career with Nottingham, having spent 13 months on the sidelines with injury. He managed to convince the powers that be to re-sign him on a showing of only 100 minutes (knee injury, broken jaw, red card and a debut that lasted only 30 seconds). The former England sevens star managed this feat in the final match of last season, coming off the bench to put in a massive hit, and then crossed the try line with his first touch of the ball. More than just an impact player, he has chalked up seven tries this campaign.

 

James Arlidge.

Fly half.

Japanese international Arlidge joined Nottingham in 2010 from Newport-Gwent Dragons. Much travelled he played Super Rugby for the Auckland Blues, before a season with the Highlanders. Arlidge began a four year stint in Japan with Osaka based club Docomo Kansai, having also represented the New Zealand Maori.

Qualifying for Japan on residency grounds, his debut came against South Korea, where he scored two tries and converted all ten of his conversions. In the 2008 IRB Pacific Nations Cup he was the top points scorer with 56. Arlidge was included in Japan's 2011 Rugby World Cup squad having missed out on the 2007 tournament after breaking his leg in a warm up match. He played in three of Japan's four matches during the tournament, scoring 34 points, including two tries against France.

In what could be his last professional season, he is only seven points behind the leagues top points scorer, but closing in (Newcastle’s Jimmy Gopperth). With nearly 300 international points, his accuracy from kicks is something that will keep Jersey disciplined if we are to see a favourable result.

 

Jersey RFC v Rotherham Titans

Rotherham Titans, a brief history:

 

A relatively new club in the grand scheme of things, Rotherham were formed in 1923. They were able to field two sides in their early days, and had the luxury of a third during the school holidays when the local sixth formers turned out for them.

As with many clubs during the Second World War, Rotherham shut down before reforming at Clifton Lane in 1946. Over the next 15 years Rotherham struggled in all areas, financial and with playing staff until a local secondary school started playing rugby. The game began to be played in many local schools subsequent to this and the arrival of a number of Physical Education teachers in the area who were rugby specialists helped both the playing standard and in the clubs organisation. Before long a regular supply of young players were coming through.

Geography was the next big hurdle to overcome as the bigger sides from down south regularly snubbed the trip north to play Rotherham, meaning when the league was established they were placed well down the divisions. This perceived injustice and placement at the bottom of the rugby tree was perhaps the catalyst to drive up the leagues. This led to several former players, such as Mike Yarlett, investing their time and resources to transform the club into a stable and successful side.

Rotherham entered league rugby in 1987, achieving stunning success right from the off, culminating in reaching the Premiership. In what has been called the ‘Golden Decade’ of Rotherham Rugby, their run of promotions started in the 1988/89 season where Rotherham won the North East Division One title. This was immediately followed up by five further promotions in six seasons to propel the club to the fourth tier of English rugby by 1995/96. It wasn’t without criticism however, as whilst some clubs hid the fact that the ‘amateur’ players did not get paid, Rotherham were quite open in their professional approach.

Having also been refused fixtures against the big local sides prior to the leagues forming, the Yorkshire Cup, still a prestigious competition, became a symbolic quest for both the players and management. The competition had been dominated by Wakefield, Harrogate and the four big Leeds clubs, Headingley and Roundhay, (now called Leeds) Morley and Otley, Rotherham reached the final for the first time in their history in 1993, going down to Otley, however two years later there was no doubting that Rotherham had arrived, as they defeated Harrogate 39-3 to win the Cup for the first, and to date only time.

Rotherham eventually reached the Courage National Division One in 1996/97 finishing seventh in their first season. The 1998/99 season saw Rotherham finish equal on points with first place Bristol, with the West Country side prevailing on points difference, setting Rotherham up for a promotion playoff. They were denied by the aggregate tries rule, having tied the scores with the Premiership's second bottom side Bedford 38 all. However in 1999/2000 Rotherham enjoyed a near faultless season, losing only two games and winning their first National League One title, setting up a promotion playoff re-match with Bedford. The first leg saw Rotherham score four tries winning 40–20 at home, while the second leg was one of Rotherham's most dramatic; despite conceding two penalty tries and losing 14–0 they won on aggregate 40–34 gaining promotion to the top tier and the first ever representative from Yorkshire to do so.

The club endured a torrid year as they struggled to win games, although several were lost by only a narrow margin. Despite some of the biggest attendances in their history, they only won two games all season finishing bottom and were relegated back to National Division One.

Despite this setback Rotherham duly romped to their second National Division One title in three years, losing only twice all season. The success of the league title was quickly dampened by the decision that Rotherham were to be denied promotion to the Premiership as they did not fulfill the ever changing entry requirements. In the same year (2001/02,) Rotherham won more silverware in the Powergen Shield at Twickenham, defeating Exeter Chiefs 35-26 in the final.

Rotherham remained in National Division One for the 2002/03, now sharing the Millmoor stadium with Rotherham United Football Club. Demonstrating their consistency, they once again recording a near perfect season as they lost only two games all season, climaxing as Rotherham became champions by beating Worcester away in one of the club's most memorable achievements. It was the clubs third National Division One title in four years, and this time, finally welcomed automatic promotion back to the Premiership.

The return to the Premiership for Rotherham was coupled with a change of name as a sponsorship deal with Titan Environmental gave them the 'Titans' nickname. Millmoor however proved even less of a happy top-flight ground than Clifton Lane as Rotherham struggled to adapt to the pace of the league on their return. They were disappointingly relegated without winning a single match.

At the end of that season, Mike Yarlett, the owner who had until now financed the club's rise through the leagues, pulled out, and extinction appeared to be a very real possibility. It became clear that Yarlett's withdrawal of his backing had come after significant frustration with the RFU’s apparent ‘ring fencing’ and their failure to meet his request to guarantee the promotion from National Division One to the Premiership. In August of 2004 and on the brink of folding, the arrival of Nick Cragg and Martin Jenkinson along with the help of Rotherham Borough Council, (who valued the club's community work as much as the sport itself), the acceptance of savage wage cuts from players, supporters donations and help from previous players, were able to rescue and stabilise the club. It was not without some controversy however as prior to this the RFU was lambasted because of its supposed supporting of a consortium from South Africa, who upon taking over would be relocating to London. This was avoided and the goodwill gestures ensured that Rotherham could continue to play, coupled with a return to their spiritual home ground at Clifton Lane which they share with the local cricket club.

The 2004/05 season started well, with five wins in a row, but the reality of their financial situation, and wholesale squad changes that had been undertaken saw the Titans fall away, finishing eighth, their worst ever position in National One. 2005/06 saw Andre Bester take control of the club in the double role of Chief Executive and Head Coach. (Bester incidentally had taken over from Ben Harvey at Birmingham). With attendances between 920 and 2250, the Titans managed to improve to finish fourth in National One.

The next season 2005/06, saw the renamed ‘Earth Titans’ finish second five points behind Leeds Tykes, despite losing many top players such as current England wing David Strettle. This was to prove the highlight of more recent times, as despite signing a record sponsorship deal with Complete Technical Services in 2007/08, the season was a massive disappointment as Titans slumped to eleventh. They finished the 2008/09 season in tenth as they sought to rebuild the team, but 2009/10 was the worst league return in thirteen years since they were promoted to National Division One. Despite this poor finish, and finding themselves in the relegation playoff group, they never looked in danger as they won five out of six pool matches.

Rotherham looked to mount a fresh challenge for the 2010/11 season and succeeded in improving on the previous few seasons, finishing seventh and into the promotion playoffs. Bester aimed to secure a squad for the following year prior to the playoffs and the club effectively released several players prior to the end of the season, the ensuing lack of motivation being a contributory factor to the Titans losing every playoff game to finish the season.

Last season brought excitement back to the club as many new faces were brought in while retaining the core of the previous year’s squad. Titans assembled one of the largest packs in the league backed up with an impressive back line and quickly became a team to fear. The club enjoyed a run of seven unbeaten home games in the Championship including impressive victories against Bristol and Bedford and also winning away at promoted London Welsh.

This season the solid home form has continued with three wins and a draw from the first four games, including a 54-31 win over Jersey (the most points Jersey have conceded in a competitive game in some time). However the wheels seem to have come loose, if not quite fallen off, in recent weeks as they have lost three of the last four league matches and with only two wins in seven away matches all season, if Jersey can match up to the might of the Titans pack, who list penalty try as one of their top scorers , then a win is a real possibility. They have conceded over 30 points in five matches this season showing that despite pack superiority they can be vulnerable. With home matches against high flying Nottingham and the ever improving Bristol to come, a points return is looking increasingly necessary if we are to put pressure on Doncaster and Moseley and remain in the Championship for next season.

 

 

Who to look out for:

Palepoi (Pale) Nonu.

Centre.

Powerhouse Kiwi centre Pale (as he prefers to be known) Nonu joined Rotherham from Launceston two seasons ago following the Cornish club's relegation into National Two South. Nonu, whose younger brother is New Zealand All Blacks centre Ma'a Nonu, previously had spells at Mounts Bay and St Mary’s College in Dublin. Nonu 32, was born in Wellington, New Zealand, but considers himself Samoan because both his parents are Samoan.

But for visa problems Nonu would have been part of the Exeter Chiefs Championship winning side during the 2009-10 campaign. After a three week trial Nonu was offered a contract, but a visa delay meant they missed the cut-off point for registration.

Because of his size (Over 6 foot and 17 stone) Pale in the past has been labelled just a "smash them up" player. But he believes the criticism unfair and is determined to show his talents. He considers himself an all-round player. Not one to be messed with once he has a ‘head of steam’.

 

Latu Makaafi.

Flanker.

Tongan flanker Latu Makaafi will again face his former club. Latu played for the Tongan under 21 setup in his early years and had a run of five man of the match awards in one season. The back row forward also made it through to full international status by playing 72 minutes against Fiji in a 2003 World Cup qualifier. Latu was one of the first two professional players in Jersey, signing in August 2006 alongside Kern Yates by Director of Rugby Dai Burton, playing for the Jersey for two years, including the promotion winning campaign of 2007/08. Since leaving Jersey he has played for Hull, Wharfedale and last season at Doncaster before coming to Clifton Lane this summer. A tall and muscular back row player at 6 foot 4 and over 16 stone, Latu is known for his hard work at either eight or six. An impressive season coupled with a good attitude at Wharfdale helped him step up a league to Doncaster. Latu made 24 starts for in the 2009/10 season coming away with 12 tries over that period, giving him a try every other game. This is attributed to his excellent ball handling and strong running skills as well as his willingness to work to a team ethic as the Jersey supporters may well remember.

 

 

Jimmy Williams.

Scrum Half.

 

Twenty three years-old, Cheltenham born scrum half Jimmy Williams joined Rotherham Titans last summer from Birmingham Solihull. Williams made his Rotherham debut against Leeds Carnegie in September 2011 and quickly established himself as first choice for the number nine jersey. Williams, who has represented Gloucestershire and England Counties, is regarded as one of the most improved scrum halves in the Championship. His speedy, accurate distribution combined with his tenacity and work-rate, look set to make him a star of the future. Jimmy’s sole try of the campaign to date was a recent effort against Munster in the B&I Cup. An audacious show-and –go enabled him to outwit three defenders before racing in to score in front of the clubhouse at Clifton Lane.

 

 

Lee Blackett.

Centre.

 

Twenty nine years-old, Chester born wing/centre Lee Blackett is in his second spell at Clifton Lane. He made his debut for Rotherham back in January 2004, against Bath in the Zurich Premiership. During the first spell at Rotherham, he became one of the club’s youngest Captains at the age of 23. He represented England students and England Counties before he left South Yorkshire to move to the west in 2006, joining Leeds Carnegie. There he spent six successful seasons and still holds the Premiership record for fastest try scored (8.28 seconds v Newcastle Falcons). Blackett’s return now sees him combine playing duties with the added responsibly of Backs Coach. His aggressive style both in defence and attack has made him a crucial component of the side and a favourite of the faithful in the “Shed” at Clifton Lane.

 

Eamonn Sheridan.

Centre.

 

Twenty three years-old Birmingham born centre/wing, Sheridan joined the Titans in the summer from Leinster Rugby. Although English qualified, Sheridan grew up in Ireland, with his first club being Navan RFC. From there Sheridan spent four years in the Leinster Academy claiming honours at under 18 and under 20 levels, before joining Rotherham and at 6' 4" and 17 stones; Sheridan offers a powerful presence in the Titans midfield. His muscular line breaks are fast becoming a trademark in Championship rugby as he keeps the visitors defence on red alert when in possession of the ball. However, the likeable Irishman offers much more than physicality. His intelligent running lines combined with his fleet of foot has seen him score five tries in all competitions to date. Sheridan has become a prominent figure at Clifton Lane and much is expected of him.

 

Lionel Messi,

World Player of the year for the fourth time in a row, eclipsing Pele, Maradona et al. His statistics read as something out of a Roy of the Rovers comic.

Most goals in a calendar year: 91

Most goals in a season: 68

Most goals in a European Cup season: 14 (jointly with Jose Altafini)

Most goals in a La Liga season: 50

Most La Liga hat-tricks in a season: 8

Most European Cup top scorer awards: 4 (with Gerd Mueller)

Most goals in a single European Cup game: 5

Most goals scored in Spanish Super Cup: 10

Most consecutive La Liga matches scored in: 10

Most goals in Club World Cup: 4 (held jointly with Denilson)

Barcelona's top goalscorer in all official competitions: 286

Barcelona's record goalscorer in Champions League: 56

Most La Liga hat-tricks: 15

Will we ever see the like again? yet to reach the age of 25, what he can achieve is unimaginable!