MAIDENHEAD RFC’S new-found confidence will be severely tested when they entertain Oxford Harlequins at Braywick tomorrow (Saturday), kick-off 2.30pm.
Coach Simon Edwards is expecting an exciting match and believes his team can take their winning run in the league to three matches.
However, his prediction is only based on his players turning in above-par performances.
He said: “Oxford will score points so we must front-up otherwise we’ll lose.
“If we perform as we can we will win.
“Either way I’m expecting a close match. I watched them three weeks ago against Bridgwater and was impressed.
“They are well coached and have worked hard on their defence. They have always had a good set of backs, but now they have quality up front also.”
He added: “They are nothing like they were a couple of seasons ago.
“They’re a good side and can compete with anyone at this level. Although they were relegated last season, and then reprieved with a wild card, this will only make them more determined to do well.
“It should be a cracking match.”
Although showing a healthy respect for his opponents, Edwards also knows that he has an exciting squad capable of producing top quality rugby.
Edwards said: “This is the best squad I’ve ever had at the club.
“The 2nds on Saturday will include 12 players who have played for the 1sts in South West Division 1 this season.
“Whether we have the quality to challenge at the top in years to come, only time will tell.”
This strength was underscored when Maids 2nds and Oxford Harlequins 2nds met on Saturday, with Maids coming away easy
78-19 winners.
But don’t expect a similar scoreline in the 1st XV match tomorrow.

Maidenhead: Danny Martin, Simon Cripps, Alex Greer, Jonny Hammond, Stuart MacKay, Mark Ruddick, Gareth Edwards, George Blackwell, Malcolm Eddington, Cormac O’Byrne, Mark Mueller, De Wett Booysen, Jacques Botha, Paul Jones, Danny Walton. Subs: Allan Greene, Ben Ayres, Piers Morgan.