Weekend Preview: Rams vs Plymouth Albion
National League 1 – Saturday 15 November, KO 3 pm at Old Bath Road
Head-to-Head & League Context
As the campaign approaches its mid-point, both Rams and Plymouth Albion sit solidly in the top half of the National League 1 table.
Rams have played 9 matches, winning 6 and losing 3, accumulating 30 points. Plymouth Albion also have 6 wins from 9, yielding 32 points, with a far superior points difference (Albion +154 vs Rams +58).
In short, this is shaping up to be a genuine six-pointer between two sides firmly in promotion contention.
Form Guide & Recent Results
Rams have won just one of their last three league outings, losing their last two. Their defence has leaked tries and, while their attack still managed 29 points in their most recent loss, consistency has been an issue.
Plymouth Albion have also won only one of their last three. A convincing home win over Birmingham Moseley was bookended by two away losses, first to Tonbridge and then in last weekend’s defeat to Blackheath. Albion’s recent form has been mixed — a big home performance followed by an away setback suggests some vulnerability on the road.
Albion will need to watch out for Rams’ line-out and maul. If Rams dominate the forward exchanges, they’ll provide the platform their backs need and that could change the momentum. However, Albion’s defence out wide has been solid this season, and with Rams’ try-scorers often striking from the flanks, discipline will be key.
Albion Danger Men & Key Storylines
Frankie Dart has been a breath of fresh air with his kicking this season — both from the tee and in open play – often pinning teams deep inside their own twenty-two.
Co-captains Jack Oulton and Dan Pullinger have led by example throughout the campaign, while Bobby Wigginton continues to produce match-changing moments.
One major setback, however, is the absence of Ben Moa, one of Albion’s standout performers this season, who misses this weekend’s matchup after picking up an injury at Blackheath. The rest of the squad will need to rally and cover the number 8’s work rate and carries.
Given the facts and figures, Rams must shore up their back-line after recent performances. For Albion, converting their attacking threat into away victories is now crucial.
What to Expect
Rams at home will be eager to bounce back after two straight defeats and will look to capitalise on home advantage. Their attack has shown it can be dangerous — if they control the set-piece and avoid leaking soft tries, they could make the afternoon difficult for Albion.
Albion travel with confidence from earlier big wins and an impressive overall start to the campaign but will be cautious after their defeat at Blackheath. If they can slow Rams’ tempo, enforce their own rhythm and keep the scoreboard ticking through their firepower, they will be a serious threat.
In summary: Two well-matched sides, both capable of impressive rugby and committed defensive work. Expect an entertaining afternoon at Old Bath Road.
Squad in Full
1. Jenson Boughton
2. Harry Wilkinson
3. Liam Bishop
4. Freddie Stevenson
5. Oscar Beckerleg
6. Joel Broadhurst
7. Jago Sheppard
8. Angus Hodges
9. Jack Oulton
10. Iwan Jenkins
11. Jack Statton
12. Archie Hill
13. Oscar Stewart
14. Shea Cornish
15. Frankie Dart
Replacements
16. Rhys Williams
17. Dan Pullinger
18. Jake Clemson
19. Harry Legg
20. Ben Raivalitia
Player Insight
Former Rams player Liam Bishop had this to say ahead of the clash:
“I’m really looking forward to going back to Rams and seeing everybody. The coaches really looked after me for the two years I was there. Fingers crossed it’ll be us coming out on top. After last week we need to put in a big performance. We need to go there, be more physical and stick to our game plan.”
Written by Pablo Cheeks
