Balding thinking big as Moseley set sights on Championship
FOLLOWING a strong showing last season, Birmingham Moseley have made a fast start this term and have their sights set on a top-four finish – and even promotion to the Championship.
Adam Balding’s side have carried momentum from their pre-season into the opening of this campaign, securing three victories from three heading into this weekend.
The director of rugby praised the professionalism of his coaching staff and the importance of consistency as Moseley look to improve on last season’s fifth-place finish.
Director of rugby Balding told The Rugby Paper: “You only get one opportunity to come together as a group, and we’ve certainly done that this year.
“We’re judged on weekly performances and all you can do is show progression. I have a fantastic set of coaches working alongside a mature playing squad.”
While Moseley have made a good start, he recognises that the league is tough and unpredictable with difficult matches to come.
“There’s no point looking too far ahead,” said Balding. “All we can do is focus on the next game and aim to finish higher than last year. Last season we allowed four or five games to slip away, which cost us a better finish.”
The focus this year is on maintaining consistency and staying true to themselves. With improved squad depth, Balding is confident they have the resilience to overcome tight situations.
He highlights the leadership within the team, particularly from match-day captain Ollie Stedman and club captain Sam Pointon.
“The lads have been fantastic, and the leadership group has driven the team forward,” Balding said, crediting them for setting high standards across the squad.
Aquile Smith has emerged as one of Moseley’s stand-out players this season, excelling in his try-scoring after potent campaigns in recent seasons. Balding praised Smith’s development, describing him as a “fantastic player” with a professional attitude both on and off the field.
“He trains like a fulltime pro, and it’s no wonder he’s scoring tries for fun,” Balding said, adding that Smith’s performances have set a benchmark for the rest of the team. “He lets his rugby do the talking and his attitude both on and off the field is that of a constant professional.
“I’d also like to recognise all the players as a whole and how hard they work. From Ollie Stedman as captain to Adam Peters coming into the back row. It’s also great to see Morgan Dawes back from a long-term injury.”
Balding stresses the importance of working with other Midlands clubs. After the collapse of Worcester and Wasps, Moseley found themselves somewhat isolated, with Leicester Tigers too far east for regular collaboration.
However, Balding is pleased to have rekindled a working relationship with Gloucester, and sees Coventry as a key local partner.
He added: “Coventry is carrying a smaller squad than they did last year, and their volume of additional players is much less. That leaves us looking around to see who else we can work with. It’s been great to be in touch with Gloucester.”
Balding’s long-term vision is clear, aiming to guide Moseley back to the Championship, but also stresses the importance in the short-term of growing the club’s role within the local community.
He said: “We are a beacon within the local community, and it’s important we remain inclusive and united.”
