This Saturday, Swindon’s NALGO Sports Club stages its second Rugby League match of the Southern Conference season when Devon Sharks come to call and home coach Kirk Collins foresees a tough battle ahead.
‘We are not yet at completely full strength, as well as not being quite where we want to be in terms of fitness and preparation,’ he says, hinting at the possibility of one or two new players joining the club’s roster, maybe even getting the nod for this weekend.
He acknowledges the difficulties St George have faced in their pre-season planning. ‘Covid has played havoc with our preparations,’ he says.
‘We have found it extremely hard to get a stable squad together in training and with other clubs facing similar problems, it’s been very difficult to find suitable pre-season opposition.’
While admitting his frustration at losing last week’s opening encounter with Torfaen Tigers, Collins puts the defeat in perspective, saying ‘In the circumstances, I have to be pleased that we managed to get the game on and for our boys to get a run out.’
However, Saturday’s game against what he recognises is a strong, physical side is now his major focus and he is looking for his boys to get maximum enjoyment from the match, as well as from the rest of the season. ‘That’s a key objective for me’ he confides, ‘and a happy, settled side is one that stands a better chance of success.’
Kick off is scheduled for 2.30pm. and entry is free.
