TO ADD to Maidenhead’s deepening injury crisis, a key player went AWOL this week, following derogatory comments about him on the club website
First choice scrum-half Chris Perkins, 21, moved to Maidenhead earlier this season from national league team Bracknell, where he was the second string No.9.
His intention was to gain more experience through regular 1st team rugby.
However, despite some excellent performances, one critic logged on to the club website and accused the youngster of being unable to pass the ball.
The comments so upset Perkins he decided to take an unscheduled break, leaving his side in the lurch for its important home clash with title hopefuls Cheltenham.
However, coach Simon Edwards has said he stands by his young protege and is determined to retrieve the situation.
He said: “I’ve been in contact with Chris and he’s very upset about the article on the website.
“This is a young player who came to the club to improve his play at a lower level of rugby.
“He’s only 21 years old but he is an immense talent and I found the comments on the club forum appalling.
“I haven’t got enough players as it is, without this sort of nonsense.”
Edwards is now hoping to have Perkins back in the fold by the New Year.
Another unhappy loss this week was No.8 Paul Jones, who broke his hand in Saturday’s defeat at Braywick.
Edwards said: “It’s his third bad injury in the last two seasons. He broke his other hand early last year and then had an horrific injury to his ear.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if we didn’t see him again this season, which is a disaster for us. He’s a tough player and a very, very good No.8.”
With no game tomorrow (Saturday), Maids travel to the West Country to take on Dings Crusaders in a week’s time.
Dings have lost four of their 10 league games so far this season, but have yet to be bettered on their home ground.
Edwards said: “Dings away is a massive game. Nobody has beaten them down there.
“Most people would say we don’t have a chance, but upsets happen so let’s just wait and see.”

The club website can be found at www.maidenheadrfc.com