PLYMOUTH Albion’s director of rugby Graham Dawe expects Loughborough Students to offer a tricky test to his club in their final home match of 2015.
Albion take on the students this Saturday at Brickfields with Plymouth hoping to make it three wins in a row after victories over Wharfedale and Ampthill.
Loughborough might currently sit 12th in the National One table, four places below Albion, but within the last month they have beaten high-flying Rosslyn Park 32-10, Wharfedale 30-8 and only just lost to title-hopefuls Hartpury College 13-8.
The Hartpury defeat was one of four matches Loughborough have lost this season by just one score.
Dawe, who would like his Albion team to end their 2015 home campaign on a high, said: “It’s a very intriguing game against Loughborough this weekend with the fact that a bit like ourselves they have been somewhat inconsistent.
“They have certainly got the ability to put together a big performance and get results.
“They have some talented individuals, but, like ourselves they have got young players and sometimes consistency does not always follow.
“But they can certainly play rugby. We just have to focus on the basics against them, be pragmatic in the way we play and don’t give them too many turnovers. We need to build pressure – that’s what we will be focusing on this week.
“We have to concentrate on the basics and try and eradicate giving away too many penalties and making mistakes.”
After this weekend, Albion will not be at home again until January 9 when they entertain Hull Ionians.
Meanwhile, Plymouth are offering a ‘Super Seven’ season ticket for their remaining games after January 1.
The ticket will be for seven league matches – Hull Ionians, Coventry, Blaydon, Henley Hawks, Blackheath, Wharfedale and Hartpury College.
Prices start at £80 for adults and Albion hope they might prove a popular Christmas present.
“I think it would make a nice present for anyone,” said director of rugby Graham Dawe.
“The club have come up with this idea to try and increase support for the second half of the season.
“Hopefully, people will purchase one for themselves or for their family and friends.
“We have enjoyed incredibly good support this year but extra support is always greatly appreciated and is good for the club.”
The full prices are: Grandstand – adults: £100, concessions: £85, youth: £25; Covered Standing – adults: £85, concessions: £70 and under-16s: free; Ground – adults: £80, concessions: £55 and under-16s: free
Tickets are available in person at the club or via their website www.plymouthalbion.com