ON SUNDAY, Maidenhead Under 19 Colts face a tough semi-final showdown with mighty Bath in the National Knockout Cup.
And, once again, Maids will enjoy the home advantage, with the West Country side having to make the long trip to Braywick.
At stake is a place in the prestigious final, expected to take place at Twickenham, where the minnows of Maidenhead would face Bristol or Saracens for a shot at the title.
However, coach Simon Edwards claims Sunday’s game is the real final, when a win would ensure national recognition for his young stars.
He said: It’s a fantastic thing for the boys. For some of them it could be the biggest game of their lives.
“This is the final for us, because when you make it to the final you are already winners.”
The good news is that all six of Edwards’ internationals will be back in time to play in Sunday’s game, kick-off 2.30pm.
Full-back Jon Hammond makes a welcome return after missing the quarter-final, James Haskell arrives home from England duty on Friday, and Steven Bennett flew back from the recent Junior World Championships in Italy on Tuesday.
Edwards added: “I’m just proud to be involved with them. On our day we can beat anyone in the country and if we can play to our potential on Sunday we will win.”