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. Eccles have been fortunate in avoiding major disruptions due to weather (just the one game postponed so far) 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, Liverpool Collegiate, arrive in mixed form with 1 win from their last 4 games in the ADM Premier and Eccles will be looking to close the gap on the team positioned two places above them, with a reversal of the result in November which saw Liverpool claim a close 22-17 home victory. Our first team have continued to suffer from an inconsistent line up and results through the winter and, as with the fixture last autumn, I expect today’s team sheet will once again 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 entertaining Anselmians and 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. Whist 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. 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