Information on Loughborough

Loughborough Students set for Twickenham showdown

Posted on 22/04/2008

rugbyLoughborough’s 1st XV are looking to cap one of their most successful ever years by reclaiming the national student crown at Twickenham this Wednesday (23 April).

 

Loughborough face defending champions Hartpury at the home of England rugby this week, having beaten off challenges from Exeter, St Mary’s College and Stirling on their way to the Championship Final.

 

And in an impressive double header Loughborough’s 2nd XV will face Hartpury’s 2nd XV to contest for the BUSA Shield at Richmond Athletic Grounds tomorrow morning at 11am.

 

Loughborough’s 3rd XV, who finished second to Loughborough IIs in the Midlands Conference league, were also in the Shield but were knocked out in the quarter finals by Hartpury.

 

Loughborough head coach Dave Morris is delighted both teams have made their respective finals and believes they are capable of a double victory.

 

“We’ve been really fortunate this year to attract some strong Freshers which has given real depth to the club,” he said. “It’s a fantastic achievement to get into both finals, but it’s not unrealistic given Loughborough’s reputation for rugby.

 

“Hartpury are a very good outfit too and the Twickenham final will see two very good quality sides meet up. We beat them three years ago in the finals and two years ago in the semi finals and as a squad we’re confident if we produce our best rugby this year we can win, though I’m sure Hartpury feel the same.

 

“We’ve been affected by injury and illness but we’ve had a really good training week. There’s been a real squad approach to our preparation with a selfless attitude from all players, and our support staff Paula Wild, Darren Hyde and Bob Smith have done a fantastic job minimising injuries and getting players back to full fitness.

 

“The BUSA finals are major events for our teams and as a coach I feel there’s a huge emotional build-up for all of our players. Many of them will know their opponents from age group rugby, whilst playing the Championship fixture at Twickenham makes it an ever bigger occasion.”

 

The BUSA Championship Final at Twickenham kicks off at 3pm on Wednesday 23 April. Tickets are available on the gate for £5 while those unable to watch the fixture live can keep up with the action online at www.busa.org.uk <http://www.busa.org.uk/>