Although still mathematically a possiblity, it will be pride rather than promotion that is at stake tomorrow (Saturday 11th March, KO 2.15pm) for the Bees as they welcome local rivals Old Halesonians to Portway.

Last week’s defeat to league leaders Nuneaton, together with wins for other title contenders Broadstreet, Sheffield (beating Old Hales) and Peterborough Lions, effectively put paid to any lingering promotion hopes this season for the Bees.

However, games against friends and near rivals Old Halesonians are never dull affairs and an enthralling game is very much in prospect as fifth placed Bees take on the men from Wassell Grove who are currently in sixth place in the league. Although the Bees have won three games more and lost four games fewer that Old Hales’, tomorrow’s opponents have racked up 11 bonus points to the Bees’ six.

When the two sides met back in November at Hagley, it was a more entertaining game than the 5-8 score line suggested. With all three games last season close run affairs too, an equally tight game is in prospect at Portway. After the game, supporters from both sides will be able to watch the Calcutta Cup live in the clubhouse – a game which could be an similarly “nip and tuck” contest.

Coaching duo Pete Glackin and Ben Woods have made both personnel and positional changes to the match day 18 that came out second best at Nuneaton last week.
In the pack, Joe Foreman starts at loose head, with Pete Koiziot on the bench. Max Rodman starts at fly half, whilst a fit-again Jimmy Oliver partners Isaac McNulty in the centres, with Jevon Hinds moving to the bench. Matt Dight makes his first start on the right wing, with Chris Fensome slotting in at full back.

Sunday is also an important day for the club. As well as the regular Age Grade rugby activities in the morning, there is also an important session which kicks off at 4pm in the clubhouse.

With the club recently signing a 40-year lease at Portway, we wish to engage with everyone involved in the club - including players, supporters, volunteers, parents and sponsors - in creating a ‘Club Development Plan’ which will cover all aspects of the club’s future activities.