FLYING wing Conor Corrigan is chomping at the bit to return to action when Rams take their place in a fascinating National Cup pool, writes Richard Ashton.
With the draw being done geographically due to the coronavirus pandemic, Rams have been placed in a thrilling six-team group which also includes Rosslyn Park and Chinnor – the other sides apart from champions Richmond at the top of the National One table at the end of the shortened last season.
Corrigan’s former club Henley Hawks are also in the mix along with Barnes and Esher, making Pool Two one of the ones to follow in the initial stages of a competition which could end with a Twickenham final in May.
And the Aussie speedster revealed: “I’m very excited – there are a good few good derbies and I’m sure everyone will be up for it.
“It’s been a while since we’ve played so I’m expecting a lot of energy from all the teams involved.”
The competition will be played under adapted rules which mean no scrums or mauls will be allowed due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
And while his side used those weapons superbly last season, forwards coach Owen Root revealed: “It’s really exciting. Change can be something which makes you anxious, but it also demands the best from you and as coaches and players it will demand us to think outside the box to be creative and look at what we can do within the parameters that have been set out.
“We’re grateful to the RFU who have allowed us to get back and play some rugby, the boys are up for it and as coaches and everyone involved with the club, it’s an exciting opportunity to develop and we need to make sure we do – it maybe an opportunity to find things which we can take into our next campaign.”
He too was intrigued by the draw, concluding: “It will be fantastic. It’s exciting enough to get some rugby, even though it’s not the same, but when you add into that the possibility of playing Henley, Chinnor, derbies renewed, it’s great.
“To hopefully get the chance to have a hit out against these guys is really exciting – but I’m sure they’re equally excited and that will make for a positive, which is something in these times we probably need.
It is hoped the tournament will be played home-and-away in the group stage, before moving into the knock-out phases.
Further information fixture dates will be announced in due course, with a target start date of February.
