On the eve of the new season, with both the 1st XV and the Lions starting their league campaigns this weekend (sadly the Lions game at DMP was postponed), I caught up with new senior men’s head coach Andy Dunn to gauge his thoughts on pre-season and the challenges ahead as the new season approaches. A former Club Captain and a man who knows the club from top to bottom, he was, as always, forthright and honest in his assessment:
“The pre-season has been a positive and productive period for Percy Park RFC. Training numbers have remained steady throughout, providing a strong platform to build from heading into the new season. We have also welcomed four new players to the club in Joe Green, Kiran Hope, Tom Cahill and Matthew Robertson, all of whom have settled in quickly and made a positive impact on the squad. The competition for places has been healthy, and the players have responded well to the demands of pre-season.
Alongside our new arrivals, there are several young players to watch in Will Ponton, Jacob German and Matthew Dunn, all of whom have shown tremendous potential and a desire to learn. Their development is a strong indication of the talent coming through at Percy Park.
Overall, this is a young squad, but that bodes extremely well for the future of the club. We are looking to play a fast, free and expansive brand of rugby, keeping the ball in hand whenever possible and stretching opposition defences across the full width of the field. At the same time, we want to be aggressive, physical and well organised in defence, ensuring we are difficult to break down. There is a real sense of excitement around the group, and while there will undoubtedly be challenges ahead, the potential within this squad is clear for everyone to see. We believe the experience these young players gain this season will provide a strong foundation for the long-term success of Percy Park RFC”.
Andy’s assessment leaves room for a great deal of optimism for the season ahead which was certainly borne out by the weekend’s opening league result, a bonus point 45-35 home win over West Hartlepool (match report to follow).
The Club wish Andy, all of our coaches and teams the very best for the coming season.