Old Patesians return to action at Everest Road this weekend as they host Wellington in Tribute South West 1 West at 2pm on Saturday.
Park Life Sport’s Rugby Editor Sam Rhymes takes a closer look ahead at both sides ahead of the pivotal clash.
It has been a challenging season for every club across the country during the first half of 2021, something that is highlighted better than most by Old Patesians and Wellington. The two sides sit 13th and 11th respectively amidst a scrap for survival at the bottom of South West 1 West. Although is too early to begin talks of ‘must win’ matches, this Saturday’s fixture is about as close as it comes.
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Recent form
Old Patesians
The Cheltenham side come into the round 13 clash on the back of their first win of the season last weekend courtesy of a narrow 27-25 victory over North Petherton at Everest Road. After securing a bonus point victory, they moved within one win of exiting the relegation places. Chris Downes’ side had endured a baron run up until last Saturday’s victory, suffering 12 defeats in a row that saw them concede close to 400 points on the way. Spirits will be higher than ever in the camp this week, and Wellington can be sure to face a stern test at a seemingly revived Patesians outfit.
Wellington
The visitors this weekend are equally desperate for a win after enduring a similar run of form that has seen them lose their last seven league fixtures, dating back as far as early October. After sitting out last weeks round due to the bye week, this weekend’s fixture will be their first in a month. Four wins from 12 doesn’t make for the prettiest reading for the fans of the Somerset outfit, however they will be full of new year positivity and vigour that will be crucial if they are to leave Cheltenham with four points.
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Key men
Max Olkard
The Patesians Hooker has been ever present this year, and has been a consistent performer across all facets of the game. The UoG graduate has demonstrated superb set-piece abilities at both line-out and scrum time, with his dynamism on the ball often putting opposition players on the backfoot. His performance will be key to the hosts success this weekend.
Finlay Mellis
After scoring a sensational chip and chase try during last weekend’s victory, the 20-year-old Hartpury speedster will be looking to cut loose again this weekend. With the weather beginning to turn for the better, Director of Rugby Downes has made no secret of the fact he wants his side to play more expansive, fast paced rugby as they look towards the business end of the season. The prospect of a more offensive game will be music to the ears of winger Mellis, who has shone throughout the season with limited opportunities with the ball in his hands. Wellington must be disciplined with their kicking game, or risk letting the young gun cash in.
Team news
Both official team sheets will be released on Friday at midday as per usual, there are some players we know for certain who won’t be involved on Saturday for the hosts. Danish International Centre Josh Jensen misses out after picking up a knock in last weekend’s game, and scrum-half Sam Cox has headed back to University so is unavailable.
In better news for the home side, second-row James Mcintosh looks set to return to the side after his absence last time out, and in a huge boost for the hosts, back-rower Dan Hewitt returned to training last night and is close to a return to action.
All eyes will be on Everest Road this Saturday as the home supporters will look to carry their side over the line and pick up a second straight win over fellow strugglers Wellington, who themselves are desperate to break free of the wrong-end of the table. Whatever happens, it’s not one to miss.
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