‘Mid-table would be good’ says coach

H&B have won one and lost two of their first three games following their promotion to London Three South East.

Smith said: “I think mid-table would be good for us this year. We’ve got a young back division now and a new 10 so it will probably take a season to gel.

“We’re looking at our forwards in detail and on the whole we’re a consistent squad. If we keep the same 26 or 27 players fit and healthy, I think we’ll be fine.

“Every game is a cup final, and we’ve got to dig in and really fight. We’ve got be on our mettle all the time. It’s a very, very difficult league to stay in, but once you stay there you can build on it.”

After receiving a walkover in their London & SE Senior Vase tie at home to Gillingham Anchorians last weekend, H&B will return to league action tomorrow (Saturday) away to a second-placed Bromley side which has won all of its first three matches.

Hastings & Bexhill Rugby Club will be holding its biggest event of the year this coming Sunday. More than 1,000 boys and their parents/coaches will descend on the club for its annual Minis Festival.

Rye Rugby Club, meanwhile, will entertain Seaford in Sussex One tomorrow. The New Roaders were edged out 17-9 at home to Reigate in a closelyy-contested London & SE Junior Vase first round tie last weekend.