Rugby previews

WOODFORD captain Robbie Connell believes the players are starting to respond to coach Matt Davies' grand plan and are on the verge of hitting top form.

Davies brought with him plenty of new ideas when he arrived at the beginning of the season, and after a mixed bag of results during the first half of the campaign, Connell is confident that everything is starting to fall into place.

“Matt came in with some big game play changes and it's taken time for us to adapt to that,” said the Highams skipper. “But I think it's starting to come now. We just need to make sure that we are all doing our jobs and I'm confident we can get the top four finish we've aimed for all year.”

Connell is keen to be part of a ruthless attacking unit, preferring to kick on when they take the lead rather than sit back and attempt to protect it.

However, the side will have their work cut out when they travel to second-placed Diss in their first London Two North match of the year, not least because they will have six first-team players missing through injury or absence. That will allow a number of second string players to demonstrate what they are capable of, as the look to push on from their mid-table base.

Elsewhere, in Essex One, Wanstead could regain top spot with a win over basement boys Writtle Wanderers if leaders Clacton slip up at home to Old Brentwoods.

In the same division, Upper Clapton will be desperate to distance themselves from a relegation scrap with a win against fifth-placed Maldon, while Ilford Wanderers travel to Thames looking to consolidate their mid-table position.

In Essex Two Loughton face a tricky game against Old Cooperians, who currently occupy second in the table, while strugglers Ongar are also in action against one of the big guns in Essex Three, as they take on Brightlingsea.