CHAIRMAN’S WELCOME A warm welcome to all our supporters and visitors at Eccles RFC today. The recent wet conditions have seen lots of waterlogged pitches and cancelled fixtures across the region. So far, Eccles have been fortunate in avoiding major disruptions due to weather and I’d like to acknowledge the weekly efforts of our dedicated grounds team that keep our pitches in great playing condition despite the weather. If you are reading this, you can assume the match is going ahead and if you see a 'fossil’ in the bar please buy him a pint! Our 1XV opponents today, Didsbury Toc H, arrive unbeaten at the top of the ADM Premier. Eccles players and supporters will recall several memorable events from the fixture earlier in the season at Ford Lane which Toc H won 38-22, and will no doubt be looking to avenge that away defeat today. Since October the 1XV has continued to suffer from a long injury list and inconsistent line up. As with the game at Didsbury, I expect today’s team sheet will feature a number of our homegrown former colts who are showing great promise as we build to the future. Our 2XV men are also at home today to face Liverpool University Vetinarians. I wish both teams the very best of luck in their exploits. Although our Senior teams have struggled to find consistency on the field this season, there’s certainly been a renewed camaraderie within the squads and the atmosphere in the clubhouse at the weekend is now returning to its best. We’re working hard here at Eccles to overcome the set backs of COVID by promoting the game and invigorating its growth within our community. Since last summer, the club has taken big strides forwards with its Mini & Junior rugby, with increased numbers across all 10 teams. Whilst other clubs have curtailed their development of youth due to a decline in numbers, we’re a hive of activity and bursting at the seams on Sunday mornings! Our Community Rugby Coach is engaged with local schools and the club is now growing at a healthy pace with over 460 members. Of course, this surge in participation and the maintenance of our facilities would not be possible without the invaluable assistance we receive from our sponsors and the continued commitment of our volunteers. Donating your time to support the club's activities can be very rewarding so if you’d like to get involved and put something back in please do step forward. Whichever team you’re supporting this weekend, I hope you enjoy your match experience at Eccles and you keep returning throughout the season. Thank you for your support in our 125th Anniversary year. Let’s get stuck in! Chris Gaffey // Eccles RFC Chairman
5 Publizr Home