In Focus: Nigel Mukarati
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.
Michael Harrison wins special Rugby Union Writers’ Club award
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 overpower Broadstreet to claim crucial victory
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 beat Sheffield to go top as Sedge edge past Hinckley
Sale FC enhanced their promotion ambitions in National Two North as they went to the summit of the division following victory over Sheffield.
Brilliant Blackheath end Coventry streak
Blackheath brought Coventry’s unbeaten National One run to an end with a well-deserved victory at Well Hall in Round 18.
Wild Geese out to cause another upset against Cinderford
London Irish Wild Geese’s victory over Chinnor last weekend was arguably the result of the season so far and Lee Starling’s side will be eager to back that performance up by taking down the other title challengers this Saturday.
January drama expected as Hinckley and Sedgley Park put promotion credentials to the test
In some sports, many pundits and fans alike say the winter months can define the outcome of a season and in National Two North, January is the time of year which may well shape the battle for a top two spot in this division.
Hull Ionians and Old Albanian hoping to seize opportunity in relegation clash
Defeats for Hull Ionians and Old Albanian to begin the New Year leaves both sides still fighting for survival in National One and this weekend, the teams meet in Hertfordshire in what could prove to be a vital fixture.
In Focus: George Evans
George Evans is sure Cinderford can make a return to the third tier this season as the Foresters went to the summit of National Two South last weekend.
Wild Geese shock Chinnor as Cinderford go top
London Irish Wild Geese produced an excellent performance to end Chinnor’s sixteen-match unbeaten run in National Two South to knock Matt Williams’ side off the summit of the division.