Development XV lose to strong Sedgely Park team

With a side short of all but two regulars it was always going to be a tough ask and so it proved as the vastly more experienced side out muscled and eventually outplayed our youngsters.

Many thanks to all who stood up to be counted and put their bodies on the line for BRUFC in such a tough fixture. It takes real courage to do so and we are fortunate to have such a brave group of young players who fought to the end. Jim Coleman and Pete Gill were spot on at the end of the game when he said they were proud of you! You will have better days on the field in future and today was another chapter in your rugby education!

Special thanks to Jim Coleman for swapping an assignment against Burnley at the last moment! (thanks also to Carlos for facilitating this) Also thanks and congratulations to George Nuttall on his senior debut although a heavy fine will be imposed on his 18th birthday following a severe case of try avoidable!

Thanks also to Pete Gill for standing in as captain!

Edward Sanderson swapped his bike for the rugby field for the first time in three years and was outstanding in defence! Ed - you are welcome anytime and thanks for your support.

Beat wishes to Calum Burke and Jack Swindlehurst both of which suffered serious leg injuries! Get fit soon guys!

All this leaves us with the prospect of having to win at Fylde next week and hoping other results go in our favour in order to stay up.

We will meet this challenge head on with the strongest team we can field at Fylde. Please can everyone do their best to be available and advise Dave Eccles ASAP?

Unfortunately I am away on business in Asia for the next ten days so I will not be at the game so best wishes in advance lads and let's give them a great game.

With sincere thanks to all associated with the development XV.

Martin Hallam
BRUFC chairman of rugby