Stourbridge target top spot
If Stourbridge had not already proved their National League Two promotion credentials beyond doubt, they have now, writes James Peacock.
If Stourbridge had not already proved their National League Two promotion credentials beyond doubt, they have now, writes James Peacock.
Even the most pessimistic members of the Stourton Park faithful must be wondering 'what if?' after Neil Mitchell's men showed great spirit to overcome Otley and leapfrog the Yorkshiremen into second spot.
In winning a fixture that Stour had never won before, Mitchell's side sent a clear message of intent to their title rivals.
Even during the coach's playing days with Moseley did he fail to secure a victory against Otley, who returned to National Two last season after spending nine years in the division above.
There were lingering signs of the arrogance about the Yorkshire side that existed in the days when Nigel Melville, former Wasps coach, played there at scrum-half.
To say the hosts expected to win and were perturbed by Stourbridge's reluctance to follow the script would be a gross understatement.
The result sets up a mouthwatering top-of-the-table clash with Manchester at Stourton Park in two weeks but before Stourbridge take on that task they will face Redruth - their game in hand on the league leaders - this weekend.
A bonus point victory would mean Stour would face the Lancashire outfit as the league's leaders, and given the side's unblemished record at Stourton Park, it would be a brave man who bets against them winning.
Mitchell said: "Given Otley's home form I thought getting something from the game was going to be a tough call. I have never been to Otley and got a result - as a player or coach - so we knew what we were up against.
"It was a tremendous effort - but I was not surprised we won because in tight games this season we have created pressure and kept our discipline when we have needed to (Stour's scrum has earned three penalty tries this season).
"In turn that has helped us to build momentum and confidence. I still think it is early days to talk about promotion and I am not just saying that to be overly cautious. There are 17 games to go but the odds are with us if we can beat Redruth and Manchester. We have nothing to fear."
Stour's front five were again as combative as they were competitive.
Such has been the transformation of the pack this season - much of the improvement attributed to Jim Jenner - that it has been the club's traditionally silky backs that have been forced into something of a supporting role. The cast roles could change as Act Two of the season approaches.
Mitchell said: "The backs unit is not yet showing the continuity they did last season - but when they do we will start picking up the five pointers.
"We have so many talented players out there that it will happen, and, of course, that means we will get stronger."
What is encouraging about the way rugby is being developed at the club is that its develoment side is also packed with talent.
Winger Greg Summers scored six tries on Saturday in the development squad's 109-0 win against Bedford Athletic, while the proven flanker Scott Whitcombe could not even earn a place on the first team bench.
Mitchell added: "I am excited about out development side, which I think is stronger than any in this division or the league above.
"It is great position for us to be in.
"We have 53 people at training sessions and there is a good feeling at club."
Full-back Jon Hall made a record breaking appearance for Stourbridge on Saturday by playing in his 188th first team game. He marked the achievemnt by scoring the winning try of the game, his 45th for Stour.
