Despite what the a glance at the top three divisions’ league tables might say, rugby in the West Midlands is alive, kicking and brimming with intriguing sub-plots.
Two will be played out on Saturday afternoon when Dudley Kingswinford stand in the way of professional fish-in-barrel-shooters Rugby Lions at Heathbrook in National Three (Midlands).
The other will be something of a Moseley reunion at Bournbrook when Bournville, steered through the leagues by former Red and Black prop Rob Sigley, go head to head with Midlands One (West) leaders Sutton Coldfield. Both are first versus second clashes.
Sutton will be inspired by Mose legend Mark Evans, who will face former team-mates Carl Colvin, Paul Coles, Paul Cox and Dean Bick in a Bournville side that will be desperate to end their perfect start.
Indeed Bournville’s own start, 11 wins from 11 games is only two try bonuses shy of being just as good and victory will take them to the summit in the battle to catch up with DK at level five.
“Evo will have a target on his back, his front – everywhere,” quipped Sigley. “I’m sure he’ll say the same though.
“Friendships will go out of the window for this match and then it’ll be like old times straight after.
“Most of his mates play for Bournville anyway. Sutton are a well organised, well drilled side that has always had a fantastic set of backs.”
DK, meanwhile, are viewing their clash with hot favourites Rugby, who already lead the division by seven points, as a chance to test themselves.
“We’re looking at this one as a free hit,” said coach Jon Higgins.
“In some ways I am more worried about the game away to Syston the week after which is maybe not so attractive because I have no doubt the boys will be up for this weekend.
“We’ll try to get at them up front but it’s going to be very difficult,” he added.
