The Berkshire boys most recently played on December 20 when they overcame Esher 31-3 in a bonus-point triumph, the Christmas and New Year barren weeks followed by the postponement of last Saturday’s trip to Sale.
It is the longest in-season gap for a long time, and with Crusaders having eased to a 35-3 home victory against Sedgley Park six days ago, a tough test is on the horizon.
Seb revealed: “Dings played some good rugby in beating Sedgley and they’re a very dangerous, talented side – it should be a good game.
“We’ve got to be on our mettle from minute one, but we’ve trained very well in the past couple of weeks and the players have come back full of energy for 2025.”
Starting changes
Rams make four changes to the side which was victorious last time out, Paddy Harris coming in at loose-head prop and Tom Vooght back on the blind-side, Ollie Cole at scrum-half for a 124th cap and Tomek Pozniak on the wing.
And the DoR continued: “Paddy’s one of the most underrated players around. He’s been in every matchday squad this season and has been one of our best performers – he works in conjunction with Ant Marris whether they start or come off the bench and – it’s nice to let him go from the off this week.
“Tom used to be the young buck snapping at the heels trying to take the jersey, and now he’s got some competition in Mikey which is only positive and good for both.
“It benefits the squad, and Tom has had a fantastic return – it’s been wonderful to have him back, his attitude has been superb, and he’s been playing tremendous rugby – but Mikey’s a young up-and-coming player who he can help progress as well.
“They’ll both push each other to a better place and are fantastic options to have.
“OC’s also amazing. I’ve said it plenty of times, but from where he’s come from to what he’s achieved and continues to do, is fantastic.
“He’s having to manage moving to London and the commute, but he’s still incredibly committed, brings a wonderful attitude to the team and we love him to bits.”
Bench options
There is also potential for a debut from the bench for exciting young centre Oli Rhoads, with Seb adding: “He’s a great talent whose made a big impact in the Development XV since joining from Newbury earlier this season – and he deserves his opportunity.”
With Rams currently averaging 1,055 supporters per home game this season – and with more than 3,000 coming through the doors for the two Friday Night Lights games in December – Seb ended by saying how much he is anticipating being back at Old Bath Road.
He closed: “Ticket sales are looking good, the lunch is busy and it’s great to know there are lots of people coming along – we can’t wait to see everyone back here to kick off 2025!”
