NEWS EXTRA
Deadeye Groves helps get Old Reds off to flier
OLD Redcliffians made a dream return to the National Leagues by securing their biggest ever win in National 2 with their 58-14 win over Newport.
The Somerset side last played in the National Leagues in 2019/20 but star man Ashley Groves proved formidable off the tee scoring 25 points against fellow newly promoted side Newport.
The fly-half described last weekend as the ‘ideal start to the season'.
“The boys were pretty nervous going into it but after the first ten minutes we settled down a bit and it was one of those days where everything went to plan and we stuck to the processes and the gaps started to open up,” said Groves.
“We were really happy and said at the end of the game that we've set the benchmark for the rest of the season, so it's all pretty positive.”
Groves, 29, isn't getting carried away with their eight-try demolition and understands how much of a challenge the National Leagues can provide.
He said: “We all know how good a level Nat 2 is and obviously we've been there before and know there's some big clubs with some big player pools.
“So, we don't expect to be top of the league but the coaching staff have said we've targeted our home games and hopefully we'll put a good fight on the away trips and we'll come away with a few good results. Realistically we're looking at mid-table but we'll turn up and fight for everything.”
With the restructuring of the National Leagues, Old Redcliffians have been placed in National 2 West and will enjoy local derby matches against Dings Crusaders, Clifton and Hornets.
Groves said: “The league suits us, there's a few teams we haven't played before which is always nice and the travelling isn't as bad as it used to be. We've got a few local derbies with Dings, Clifton and Hornets in the division which is always good, so we're looking forward to those matches in particular.”
