Head Coach, Arran Ashmore had this summary of their first game together:
In testing conditions that demanded grit over glamour, East Midlands delivered a performance full of character and control to grind out a hard-earned victory.
With a swirling wind cutting across the pitch and a surface that quickly turned boggy underfoot, this was never going to be a day for expansive rugby. Instead, East Midlands embraced the challenge. From the opening whistle, they committed to a direct, aggressive style that perfectly suited the conditions carrying hard, winning collisions, and keeping the game tight.
The forward pack laid the platform superbly. Every carry was purposeful, every ruck fiercely contested. In a match where territory was priceless, East Midlands played smart, turning the opposition around and forcing them to work out of their own half. The scrum and lineout provided reliable ball despite the slippery conditions, giving the backs just enough opportunity to apply pressure in the right areas of the field.
Defensively, the work rate was relentless. Tackles flew in, second efforts were everywhere, and the scramble in broken play showed a team fully committed to one another. In weather that punished handling errors, discipline and patience were key and East Midlands showed both in abundance.
It wasn’t flashy, but it was effective. Direct rugby, aggressive intent, and a refusal to take a backward step ensured the job got done. More importantly, it was a performance built on hard work and collective resolve a solid test passed and a great foundation to build on for the games ahead.
Result 5-38
