Saturday 9 November – London – 15:00 KO Vs Blackheath
It’s set to be a big National One showdown this weekend as Plymouth Albion head to the nation’s capital to take on high-flying Blackheath.
Albion will be keen to get back onto the pitch after a well-deserved week off, heading straight into a fixture against fellow promotion contenders. The game carries huge significance — the first of three consecutive clashes that will serve as a crucial barometer of Albion’s ambitions, with matches against Blackheath, Rams, and Rotherham Titans, all sides currently sitting in the top five.
Setting the Scene
Albion make the trip to Blackheath in strong early-season form under Head Coach Ryan Lamb. Their intent was made clear over the summer — a push for the highest possible finish, with promotion very much on the radar.
Blackheath, meanwhile, are one of the most established clubs in National One and will be equally motivated to prove they remain genuine contenders at the top of the table.
After eight rounds, Albion sit third, with six wins and two losses, amassing 322 points — the third-highest total in the league — and conceding 156, for a point difference of +166. They also boast the most points scored at home this season with 207.
Blackheath are level on points (31) after eight games, having scored 262 points and conceded 161, with a difference of +101.
Form and Key Battles
Albion’s performances have impressed at both ends of the pitch. Strong pack carries from the likes of Ben Moa, who made 17 carries before half-time against Dings Crusaders, and accurate kicking from full-back Frankie Dart, have underlined the side’s strength, forward dominance, and control of territory.
Despite having a slightly lower scoring rate, Blackheath’s attacking power is clear. Their front row has been particularly dominant, as seen in their 47–12 win over Leicester Lions, where they scored seven tries in a commanding display.
Momentum could play a major role in Saturday’s game. Albion come into the match following a 36–21 victory over Birmingham Moseley under the Brickfields lights — a result that moved them up to third — though they’ll still be wary after a surprise defeat to Tonbridge Juddians the previous week.
Blackheath have also been in mixed form. They started the season strongly before an unexpected loss to Birmingham Moseley, but responded superbly with a 26–7 win over Rams just before the break.
Head-to-Head Outlook
Both teams will be looking to assert themselves early and use this fixture as a platform for the rest of the season.
Albion will aim to pressurise Blackheath’s defence from the outset, particularly given the hosts’ slightly higher average points conceded. With players such as Ben Moa, Jack Oulton, and Dan Pullinger providing leadership and physicality, territory control could prove key. Albion’s backline has also been in superb form, with Bobby Wigginton, Shea Cornish, and Oscar Stewart all recent try-scorers, alongside the ever-reliable Frankie Dart.
For Blackheath, maintaining consistency at the set-piece will be vital. Their scrummaging and lineout work have been strong this season, but they’ll need to minimise unforced errors, as Albion have shown time and again that they can punish mistakes.
Travel could also play a role — Albion’s only two defeats this season have come away from home — meaning a strong start could provide a vital psychological edge.
Statistically, Albion hold a slight edge heading into the clash: sharper in attack and steadier in defence. However, big matches like this often hinge on key moments — set-pieces, discipline, and the ability to manage pressure. If Blackheath bring intensity and precision, they’ll be difficult to beat, but Albion’s form and ambition make them formidable opponents.
This one promises to be a compelling encounter between two well-matched sides, and the result could have lasting implications on the National One title race.
Squad Selection
Starting XV
- Jenson Boughton
- Harry Wilkinson
- Dan Pullinger
- Freddie Stevenson
- Joel Broadhurst
- Angus Hodges
- Jake Bond
- Ben Moa
- Jack Oulton (C)
- Harry Legg
- Bobby Wigginton
- Archie Hill
- Oscar Stewart
- Shea Cornish
- Frankie Dart
Replacements
16. Gabe Mead
17. Liam Bishop
18. Oscar Beckerleg
19. Craig
20. Jack Statton
From the Coach
Head Coach Ryan Lamb shared his thoughts ahead of the fixture:
“It’s been a strong start to the season. The lads have put in a tremendous amount of work, so this break has been well-earned. With a challenging period ahead against teams around us, we’ll need to be even more clinical. But six wins from eight and sitting in third is a fantastic platform to build on.”
🎟 Tickets for Albion’s next home game against Rotherham Titans are available now at plymouthalbion.com.
Book online early and be part of the Brickfields atmosphere when National One rugby returns to Plymouth on Saturday 22 November.
