Spa aim to make history

9:15am Wednesday 23rd April 2008

THE clock is ticking towards the biggest game in Droitwich RFC's history, and head coach Dan Protherough says his players should be proud of their achievements whatever the outcome.

Victory over Midlands Division Three West (North) runners-up Stoke-On-Trent in Saturday's crunch promotion play-off clash at the Glyn Mitchell Memorial Ground (3pm kick-off) would see the Spa side elevated to Midlands Division Two - the highest level they have ever reached.

Losing has not been something Protherough's men are used to in recent times.

They go in search of back-to-back promotions having only lost two league games in two seasons.

Protherough believes his side must put their achievements into perspective.

He said: "It is a very important game but the most important thing is that after we were promoted last year we have had a good season anyway.

"If we finished third we would still have had a good season.

"So we musn't look at this and think it is the be all and end all."

Another strong defensive display saw Spa to an 11-3 win in their Midlands Three West (South) fixture with Leamington on Saturday.

Spa's defence has been the platform for many hard fought wins this season.

Protherough believes it will be the key area once again in Saturday's winner-takes-all contest.

He added: "We came away and produced another good performance (against Leamington).

"Our tackling and general defence was first rate.

"Nearly every game this season has been a close one.

"We have won a lot of close games where as last year there were occasions where half an hour gone we had won the game, and it was comfortable.

"It is our defence that has really got us where we are now.

"If we can combine that with some good attacking options we have got a chance.

"We have just got to focus on what we do well.

"If we have got the right mindset we can beat anyone."

Influential scrum-half Steve Poke should be all clear to face Stoke-on-Trent after an injury scare.

Poke was substituted in Saturday's game after picking up a facial injury.

Click here for a full report from Droitwich's win over Leamington.

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