Rugby Club Issue 66 | Page 28

Old Albanian FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG Old Albanian RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB N obody, player or spectator, enjoys losing matches. At the time of writing OARFC has won three and lost three of the fixtures in the present league campaign and this is regarded generally as a fair reflection of the year to date. We inhabit the same rarefied atmosphere as Coventry, Fylde, Rosslyn Park and the like, names many of the older members grew up with. This is a pleasure and a responsibility; we must be worthy of our place in the top forty clubs in the land. This year, so far so good. Since last season we have endured the usual problems of recruitment and retention of players. Promotion back to level three helped as did the possession of a fine professional, experienced coaching/backroom staff led by Head Coach James Shanahan. Plans for this season involve making the most of what is a tiny playing budget in all respects. Most of last year’s squad remains, a testament to loyalty; they form the spine of the side and have been 28 Issue 66 reinforced by certain strategic additions. Our mutually beneficial partnership with Saracens is, to say the least, useful and guest appearances have bolstered the team at important times whilst providing game time for Academy players.