North look to finish on a real high

NORTHUMBRIA Sport M1 look to end the first half of the BUCS Super Rugby 2018/19 season on a high when they take on Nottingham Trent under the Kingston Park lights tonight, writes OSCAR MAUNG-HALEY.

Last time out, Northumbria secured a 24-7 win over local rivals Durham – a feat they had not achieved in more than 10 years.

While 2018 has been a year of highs and lows for head of rugby Darren Fearn, he insists his side is raring to go as it bids to end 2018 with a win.

Fearn said: “We are in a really good place at the minute.

“The lads are all enjoying themselves and are training well.

“I think over the last few weeks we have played good rugby but another important thing is we are starting to play smarter rugby too.

“We have had three good weeks so hopefully we can end 2018 on a high.”

While Nottingham Trent come into the clash sitting one place ahead of bottom side Cardiff University, Fearn (pictured) also urged his players to take their chances and to be ready for what will be a tough test.

He added:

“We are not completely sure on the side Nottingham Trent will field – they might have back some of their players who play with Nottingham Rugby.

“If they have all their Nottingham lads back they will be firing on all cylinders, I expect.

“I am backing our lads to come out firing, though.

“One thing I am really enjoying seeing this season is the competition for places.

“If people continue to play consistently then they are not going to lose their places.

“When I look at our bench this season – any one of them could start.

“So, as a coach I am in a really good position.

“We are in a good place and I really hope we can end 2018 on a high.”