Rugby returns to Spalding Road this Saturday as Deepings RUFC hosts local rivals Thorney RUFC in the next highly anticipated fixture. Following a gritty away performance last weekend against a youthful Shelford III side, the "Green Machine" is looking to capitalise on their return to home turf.

Recent Form & Context
Despite a 26-17 loss to Shelford III last week, the coaching staff noted significant progress. The Deepings team showed immense heart, particularly in the set-piece, despite the challenges of uncontested scrums. Returning to home soil, they will look to reassert their physical dominance, a hallmark of their game.

These two sides have a history of tight, physical encounters. While recent records show an earlier 14-7 result in favor of Thorney, Deepings has historically been strong at home, including a hard-fought 24-24 draw in a previous meeting.

Key Battles
Deepings often excels in the "physical grind." If they can control the scrums and lineouts, they will likely dictate the tempo of the game and the recent "bits to work on" in training will be put to the test against a Thorney side that knows how to grind out narrow wins.

Summary
Expect a classic local derby characterised by solid hits and tactical forward play. With Deepings hungry to avenge their last loss to Thorney and looking to build momentum for the remainder of the 2025/26 season, the home crowd could prove to be the 16th man.

Note to Supporters
The club is recovering from a recent break-in incident on January 23rd; your attendance and support at the bar and pitch-side are more valuable than ever this weekend!