WHILE many were left seething at Winchester’s decision to postpone Jersey RFC’s potential coronation two weeks ago, others are grateful for the chance to see the men in red seal the deal on home soil.
Myles Landick’s side host struggling Newbury Blues tomorrow at CoinShares Park, with the knowledge that a bonus-point victory will secure the Regional 2 South Central title and consecutive promotions since the Islanders’ entry into the English rugby union league system.
It would be safe to say that the class Caldy 2nds brought last weekend – littered with Championship players –
will not be matched by the West Berkshire outfit, but nonetheless, there will be no complacency from the runaway leaders.
Newbury have already sprung a surprise or two this campaign, with victories against Winchester and London Irish Wild Geese among their seven wins in the season.
But the Caesareans were dominant in the reverse fixture at Monks Lane, in a 47-5 win and will be confident that they can repeat the trick at home.
Top try-scorer Jack Macfarlane grabbed a brace that day, with his tally now sitting at 23 on the season.
Landick said: “We had a really good training session on Tuesday. The pace, intensity and skill level was outstanding.
“After a really tough game against Caldy where we played really well, there can be a tendency to step off it a little, but if anything, it’s galvanised the group to go even harder.
“There is no arrogance in this camp, but there is a real belief in how good a side we are.
“They have every right to be confident in their ability and that’s what we will aim to take into tomorrow and into future weeks.”
Speaking on the Winchester postponement, there was disappointment for Landick and his men, but they are fully embracing the battle against Newbury.
He added: “It’s obviously special to get the chance to win at home.
“We have had brilliant support all season and we would love to get the win in front of them.
“I know its cliché, but nothing is given in this sport and I fully expect our men to approach it that way.
“Reflecting on the last couple of years, it’s easy to forget what these guys have achieved.
“To secure consecutive promotions at any level is an amazing feat and judging by training this week, they are all ready to put on a show tomorrow.
“It is a testament to how together this group is. They want to play together, play for each other and win together.
“We are a very tight-knit team and I think that shows in the way they perform out there.”
Much of the forward pack have remained consistent throughout the year. Jerry Sexton retains his place following on from Caldy last time out, while Tom Tilstone comes in at seven, as Tim Corson moves to number eight, at the expense of George Willmott – who drops to the bench.
Veteran Aaron Penberthy’s assured boot has been a vital part of Jersey’s sustained success and he again starts at fly-half with Max Harrington at nine.
Full-back Charlie Hubert returned last week and again features in the starting 15, which means Scott Van Breda continues at centre with Dom Mayo.
Landick added: “The team is so strong throughout. You have three guys in Ewan [Davies], George [Willmott] and Sam [Harvey] who have been regulars in the starting 15 this year and could easily slot in there.
“Tom [Tilstone] trained brilliantly on Tuesday and fully deserves his chance in the forwards, while Tom [Bulfin] is recently back from injury and it’s great to get him some time with a few games left at the end of the season prior to the Siam Cup.”
Action from CoinShares Park is set to get under way at 2.15pm.
Jersey RFC [1-15]: Joe Ridgway, Jack Macfarlane, Tom Wilson, Euan Spencer, Jerry Sexton, Evan Whitson (c), Tom Tilstone, Tim Corson , Max Harrington, Aaron Penberthy, Nathan Rogers, Dom Mayo, Scott Van Breda, Tom Bulfin, Charlie Hubert. Replacements: Ewan Davies, George Willmott, Sam Harvey
