Boss urges Saxons to build on win
Wednesday 20th April 2011, 8:00AM BST.
Stourbridge Saxons take on Cambridge at Stourton Park with director of rugby Neil Mitchell looking for his players to build on last week’s thrilling victory at Cinderford.
And the Saxons chief will be looking for another inspirational display on Saturday from key men including skipper Ben Hughes and scrum-half Tom Richardson after the pair helped guide the Saxons to victory at Cambridge back in December.
Mitchell said: “We have three tough games to go and it would be nice to do a job on Cambridge in our last home game of the season.
“Cambridge lost at home to Tynedale at the weekend so there’s no reason why we cannot get a win on Saturday – I would love to get the double over them.”
Richardson stole the show in the fist clash between the clubs, running in a try and setting up another as the Saxons came from behind to win 27-23.
But Hughes’ role will also be key as Mitchell faces losing Worcester Warriors back row James Freeman, who is likely to line-up for the Sixways club in their British & Irish Cup semi-final with Bedford.
Mitchell said: “I just hope we can string a side together. Matt Thomas and Will Betts are injured and, with Freeman unavailable, we really are down to the bare bones in key positions.
“While we need to look towards next season, it’s also important that we get a good finish to this season.”
Last week’s win at Cinderford finally banished any lingering relegation fears for the Stourton Park club.
Jamie Hearn’s last gasp penalty capped an impressive second half display as they visitors clawed their way back from a six-point deficit at the break.
Forwards Liam Wordley, James Rodley and Freeman bagged tries along with backs Hearn, Greg King and Matt Williams.
Mitchell said: “I was looking for two points from the day so four tries and a draw would have done me. But to run in six tries and 41 points at Cinderford was fantastic.
“The second-half was just like the second half at Rosslyn Park when we stepped up and didn’t give away silly penalties.
“I was very pleased.”
UK Sport
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