The front runners in National Two North both secured victories in Round 19 ahead of their top of the table clash this coming weekend, but there was also a major story at the wrong end of the table.
Hull Ionians secured their first win for just under two months as they toppled Blackheath to move to within touching distance of safety in National One.
Like in National Two North this weekend, there is an important fixture towards the bottom of National Two South as two sides fighting to avoid the drop clash in Round 19.
Disappointment may not be an option for sides battling for survival in National Two North this Saturday as two of the bottom four face one another in what could prove to be a vital weekend in the season.
League leaders Coventry, now no longer unbeaten in National One this season, will be looking to bounce back in Round 19 when they host Esher at Butts Park Arena.
Nigel Mukarati insists Stourbridge are not thinking about promotion this season, despite the club sitting on the cusp of a top two spot in National Two North.
Last week, Wharfedale’s Michael Harrison received a special Rugby Union Writers’ award for his outstanding contribution to the game.
Harrison, who has been affiliated with the Yorkshire side for 56 years, has always been a one club man since he first played for Dale at the age of 16.
He was presented with the award at the Marriot Hotel in London’s Grosvenor Square by Schalk Brits (Saracens), Tony Rowe (Exeter Chiefs) and Rob Howley (Wales RU) in front of some of the biggest stars in world rugby.
Harrison also captained Wharfedale for eight seasons and during a 22-year playing career, he racked up an astonishing 665 appearances for the 1st XV.
He was Head Coach between 1983 and 2006 where he guided Dale to four league promotions and whilst also doing his duties as fixtures secretary for nearly 40 years, Harrison has been heavily involved with the NCA.
Harrison was the NCA ex-committee Chairman of the North and worked closely with NCA Chairman Norman Robertson.
“During my nine years working with Michael, he was very constructive with his comments which showed his great insight into the game,” said Robertson.
“We worked really well together and his knowledge and contribution to the lower levels of rugby cannot be underestimated. It is great he is still involved in the NCA as one of the four region representatives because the National Leagues is something he is so passionate about.”
Clifton recorded their first win in six National Two South matches as they edged past Broadstreet to clinch a vital victory in their battle to beat the drop.
Sale FC enhanced their promotion ambitions in National Two North as they went to the summit of the division following victory over Sheffield.
Blackheath brought Coventry’s unbeaten National One run to an end with a well-deserved victory at Well Hall in Round 18.