Watch Live from 13:40, Sat 29th November - Grassroots Rugby LIVE!

This Saturday sees a significant battle at the bottom of the table as Deepings RUFC host St Ives 2nd XV in a must-win fixture for both sides. With both teams looking to climb away from the foot of the Eastern Counties Greene King Division One West league, the stakes are high, and home advantage could prove decisive.

Team: Deepings RUFC
League Position: 9th
Played : 4
Points: 0

Team: St Ives 2nd XV
League Position: 7th
Played : 4
Points: 6

Deepings: Searching for the First Win
Deepings are still hunting for their first league points of the campaign and will view this home game against a fellow struggler as their best opportunity yet.

The Challenge: Deepings have struggled to contain opposition attacks, conceding a high number of points, including a tough 5-53 home loss to Shelford III earlier this month. They need to find a way to shore up their defence and build on the flashes of strong attacking play they've shown.

Key Focus: The home side must focus on a dominant performance from the forward pack to control the tempo, gain territory, and provide a solid platform for their half-backs. Every player will need to bring maximum intensity and discipline to the pitch.

St Ives: Building Momentum
St Ives 2nd XV arrive having secured a valuable win recently and will be eager to solidify their position in the middle tier of the table.

The Positive: The team is coming off an impressive 52-0 victory over Mildenhall Red Lodge on November 22nd, a result that will have injected significant confidence into the squad.

The Challenge: Despite their recent win, St Ives have been inconsistent this season, highlighted by some heavy defeats earlier in the campaign. They will need to ensure they match Deepings' hunger and physicality from the first whistle, especially away from home.

Key Players: Keep an eye on players like S Mundy and E Mortimer who have been among the main points scorers for the visitors this season.

Key Battle: The Midfield Defence
This game will likely be won and lost in the midfield. Deepings' Backs need to be relentless in closing down the space and making low, effective tackles to prevent the visitors from playing an expansive game. They must use the home support to create an atmosphere of defensive aggression.
St Ives' Attack will look to build on their 52-point haul from last week. If they can move the ball quickly and accurately, they will challenge the Deepings defence out wide.

Prediction
A narrow but hard-fought victory for Deepings, but the visitors will push them all the way.
Expect a hard-fought and physical contest. With both teams desperate for a win, this fixture will be highly competitive. Deepings will rely on their home advantage and forward power to try and grind out a result. However, the recent confidence-boosting win for St Ives might just give them the attacking edge they need.

Come on down to Deepings Rugby Club this Saturday at 2:00 PM to cheer on the team!

Your support is vital!