Match Preview

Tonbridge Juddians v Birmingham & Solihull Bees - Saturday 1 September 2018

The Bees' 12 month journey from the banks of the River Severn to those of the River Medway

Bees first away game last season was at Bridgnorth RFC, adjacent to the River Severn in Shropshire. This season we start our away campaign at Tonbridge Juddians whose ground, The Slade, is adjacent to the River Medway in Kent. Traditionally, those born in Kent to the East of the River Medway are Men or Maids of Kent, those born to the West are Kentish Men or Maids!

Tonbridge RFC was formed in 1904 and Old Juddians in 1928. As the name suggests, Old Juddians were former pupils of The Judd School in Tonbridge.

The two clubs merged to form Tonbridge Juddians in 1999, and began life in London 2 South, eventually joining the national leagues in 2011. In 2016/17, Tonbridge Juddians won National League 3 London & SE, in the process winning 25 out of their 26 games! In 2017/18, they played level 4 rugby for the first time in the club's short history. A 6th place finish ensued, which must be viewed as a highly commendable effort in a very competitive league!

Evidence suggests that Tonbridge Juddians are one of the better sides in National League 2 South, but Bees go into the game full of confidence on the back of an excellent pre-season which saw wins over Bournemouth, Earlsdon, Burton and a hard fought draw against National League 2 North side Stourbridge, on their artificial grass pitch.

Bees are very much looking forward to their adventure in National League 2 South and, importantly, building new and lasting friendships with the clubs we encounter.

Saturday should see a cracking game!

COYB