UCS Old Boys need to ‘develop good habits’ and ‘build for the future’, says chairman
Matt Jacobs in action for UCS Old Boys. Pic: Nick Cook/UCS Old Boys RFC - Credit: Archant
UCS Old Boys chairman Gideon Bard says the club need to “develop good habits” and “build for the future” after last year’s relegation.
UCS, who are based on Ranulf Road in West Hampstead, have dropped out of London North-West Division Two into Division Three.
However, Daniel Stewart and Matt Jacobs have made welcome returns to the back line and winger Rory Gibson is being tipped as a useful new addition.
Bard said: “We need to get back to enjoying our rugby and developing positive habits that we hope will make for a successful season.
“We have fought tough relegation battles in the last two seasons and that often required us to problem-fix with short-term solutions. We see this season as an opportunity to build for the future.
“Last season we learnt that losing hurts, and playing until the 80th minute can make all the difference when bonus points are added up at the end of the season.
“We meet old rivals again in Grasshoppers, Fullerians and Stevenage and know we will need to be at our best to get results.
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“But player unavailability and injuries take their toll on sides to an even greater degree as you go down the league structure so we will be wary of reading too much into the form book and will just aim to be as competitive as we can be every week.
“The returns of Daniel Stewart and Matt Jacobs will add significant experience and composure and, together with our new Geordie flyer, Rory Gibson, that should mean we have a much more balanced side this season that is capable of playing attractive running rugby.”
UCS kick off with a home fixture against Wasps Amatuers on Saturday, and that is being combined with the club’s annual ladies’ day.
There will be a festival of rugby with four matches, an old boys’ lunch, music, refreshments and particular treats in store for ladies. All support will be welcome.
