Navy Rugby U23s Seek to Win 4th IS Crown in a Row
It has been a tougher build-up this year than any for the Royal Navy Rugby Union Under 23s ahead of their first Inter Service match against the RAF on Wednesday. The Training Support Group (TSG) and players alike are hoping that the high quality opposition they have encountered through September and October will have prepared them well for their 4th Inter-Service title. Without several players that have gone on to represent Senior Navy Rugby, the TSG has concentrated trying to create whole team performances. These plans major on continuity and discipline without the reliance on individual ‘superstars’.
Head Coach, CPOAET John Court stated, “We have purposefully programmed a very challenging build up to this year’s Inter-Service Championship as we know the other two Services will be hungrier and keener than ever to stop our unbeaten Inter-Service run. We are pleased that our Squad has been able to hold its shape and execute the sort of game plan that we are confident will ultimately see us to victory”.
With a chastening early loss to an impeccable Ealing Trailfinders Academy in September, the side rallied to beat a strong Dorset and Wiltshire outfit in early October. They are hoping that the Premiership Academy masterclass they encountered last week, away to Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park, was a well-timed lesson in what will be required to dominate and win the Inter-Service crown yet again.
Good luck to the RNRU Under 23s. The match kicks off at 1900 at Burnaby Road and entry is free so come along and show your support.
Article by Aidan Riley
Images: Royal Navy Rugby Union © John Walton