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 has managed to avoid major disruptions due in no small part to the weekly efforts of our dedicated grounds team that keep our pitches in great playing condition despite the weather. If you see a 'fossil’ in the bar please buy him a pint! And whilst you are at it, please buy the ref a pint too. Without the commitment of these old farts we’d have no rugby to enjoy. Our 1XV opponents today, Liverpool St Helens, arrive in good form being unbeaten in 9 of their last 11 ADM Premier fixtures since defeating Eccles 18-5 last November. Eccles players and supporters will no doubt recall several events from the fixture at Moss Lane and will no doubt be looking to reverse that result today in another close contest. Since the opening day of the season, the Eccles 1XV has suffered from an inconsistent line up due to injuries and player availability. As with the game at LSH, 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. 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 is 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 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 players 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. 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. Supporting the club's activities can be very rewarding so if you’d like to get involved and put something back in to this community 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 this our 125th Anniversary year. Let’s get stuck in! Chris Gaffey // Eccles RFC Chairman
5 Publizr Home