Smiths U15s Host Bredon Star as 1st XV Travel to Old Richians

Smiths Rugby U15s are looking forward to their next league fixture vs Bredon Star U15s on Sunday 19 October at Prince of Wales Stadium - 1030hrs KO.

Smiths defeated Old Cryptians in their league opener with an impressive 48-17 performance. Bredon had a tough opening fixture suffering a 48-0 loss at home vs Coney Hill. Whether for junior or senior fixtures, Bredon have always been a great club to play against and with some firm friends across the clubs we hope coaches, players and supporters feel most welcome at the weekend.

Smiths will be demonstrating their strength in depth with a much-changed side from their first league outing. Nine league debuts will be made as Smiths make selections from across their whole playing squad.

As Coach Sam Cook says, 'It's really important that we test as many players as possible in our league fixtures. Some of the players are playing a lot of rugby at the moment with school, Gloucester Rugby development sessions and club rugby all demanding time for either training or matches so looking after our players is vital. We are incredibly proud to have so many players wanting to represent our new Smiths team and we want to repay that commitment by sharing playing opportunities across the squad.'

The coaching team will be looking for another dynamic display of attacking rugby, building on recent training sessions focused on structure, support play, and composure under pressure. 

In addition to training efforts on the pitch, the players are feeling fit and strong thanks to sessions held at Stronghold Gym. Every other Wednesday the players are worked hard by the coaches at the gym with rugby-focussed sets of exercises.

Team Manager Luke Harding has seen the benefits across those who've be able to attend, 'It's great that the club can support with proper strength and conditioning for players as they take on more physical roles in their rugby. The sessions are well planned and advice is always on hand to ensure they get the most out of their time. It's been a really effective way of bonding the team together too'.

With a strong emphasis on teamwork, Smiths will be aiming to turn their preparation into points and deliver another entertaining performance for the home crowd. The bar will be open so please get down and offer your support.

Smiths 1st XV continue their league programme away at Old Richians on Saturday 18 October before the next round of the Counties 2 Championship Cup vs Cheltenham North away on Saturday 25 October.

Smiths United side have a well-deserved week off after a hard-fought win vs Minchinhampton 1st XV last weekend. Tries from Vansh Ladwa, Ashton Pullin, Ben Williams x2 and conversions by Tom Wardell saw them take a strong lead but the visitors came back into the game with courageous defence holding Minch at bay for a 24-17 win. They will look for a friendly fixture on October 25th before the next league match away at Cheltenham Civil Service on November 8th.