Some would say that to have a better win record than the All Blacks would be neigh on impossible.  Yet this season, whilst the All Blacks tasted defeat in the autumn at the hands of the Irish, Sevenoaks 3rd XV have swept all before them to go into their crucial match this weekend against Cliffe Crusaders so far unbeaten this season.

Leader of the Gang.  3rd XV captain James Anderson will lead his troops into battle on Saturday

Leader of the Gang.  3rd XV captain James Anderson will lead his troops into battle on Saturday

Led by Phil Woolacott and James Anderson, the 3rd XV had to fight back from a deficit in a tight match against the Cliff Crusaders in the reverse fixture earlier on in the season and know that they need to be on their metal from the outset if they are to maintain their unbeaten run.

‘We are clearly delighted with the position we are currently in now.’ said captain James Anderson.  ‘But we can’t rest on our laurels.  Every match this season has been a challenge and we are only ten points in front of Cliffe Crusaders at the moment.  It sounds a lot, but its only two bonus point wins, which Cliffe are more than capable of securing, so it’s important that we focus on the next match in hand and don’t get ahead of ourselves.’

Having been the 3rd XV spiritual leader for a number of years, Phil Woolacott has built a side that has become a talented, committed, tight knit group saying ‘The consistency in numbers and core squad has certainly helped with our performances.  It means we are not turning up on a Saturday with half the squad having to introduce themselves.  We get on well on and off the field and the social element and the camaraderie we share is a hugely important part of the team ethos.  I’m sure that between now and towards the end of the season, that togetherness will come into play.  It’s the old adage but you can’t win matches with a group of individuals, and I believe we have showed that this season.’

And so to Saturday.  With a coach booked in and a throng of supporters set to travel, Anderson and Woolacott hope that the additional support spurs them over the line with Anderson commenting ‘We are looking to make a bit of a day of it and have organised a coach to take us there and back.  There’s been some great support already, but if anyone is around on Saturday and wants to cheer us on, it could make all the difference.’

Sevenoaks 3rd XV take on Cliffe Crusaders away from home in their top of the table clash, with Kick Off at 2.00pm.  All support is welcome.

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