In contrast, the visitors have been in irresistible form since the turn of the year, racking up eight straight victories as they plot a late charge towards the top of the table.
Third plays fifth at Old Bath Road in a fixture which always serves up dramatic conclusions – the past four games between the two sides have all been decided by a single score – and Seb cannot wait for the latest chapter in a growing rivalry.
Visitors on sensational run
He began: “Plymouth are the form team of the moment and it’s going to be a very interesting game – hopefully we can use a bit of home advantage, but they’ve had fantastic wins on the road, including at Blackheath, so it’s going to be extremely tough.
“They’re a very strong side who always expect to be up there – they had a couple of early losses which was unusual, but since then they’ve done what they’d planned to do.”
On his own side’s form, which has tailed off since they won their opening 10 matches of the season, he added: “The season always swings in different ways and it’s why National One is such a fantastic league. Now we need to turn things around.”
Rowan reaches half-century
Rams make four changes to the side which lost at Birmingham Moseley a fortnight ago, with captain Max Hayman returning in the front row, Ben Atkins at No. 8, Hartpury loanee Kyle McGhie making his debut at scrum-half and Solodrau Radianirova slotting back into midfield.
Tomorrow’s encounter also features Rowan Grundy’s 50th appearance, with Seb commenting: “It’s amazing for him and what he’s done.
“Rowan came to the Uni as a talented Richmond player from Colts level, he was studying art, and we couldn’t get him out of bed for the first couple of years!
“But he’s come such a long way and has done so much for the side. He started as a fly-half and starred in some notable wins like at Rosslyn Park, and then he’s transitioned to inside centre where he’s gone from strength to strength.
“He’s a pillar of the side and congratulations to him.”
Captain Max back in action
Speaking on a couple of the other changes, the head coach explained: “Kyle’s a very accomplished footballer and we’ve noticed in training what he brings.
“He’s got a good voice, and we’re excited to get him out there because we’ve wanted to for a long time – he was on the bench against Richmond and then picked up an injury which was a real shame.
“And Max has stepped up his leadership even without playing – he’s been great for the squad and it’s wonderful to have him back.”
After a string of rain-affected games on heavy pitches the forecast is set fair for tomorrow, and Seb is hoping it can help his side get back to their best and rectify the previous home loss to Bishop’s Stortford.
He concluded: “We’ve had a lot of wet conditions, so hopefully the weather is turning and we can get some spring conditions and the chance to play an entertaining game.
“Our supporters are always amazing and every time it’s a great game with Plymouth, so hopefully they can cheer us to victory.”
