14th November
This weekend, Dorchester RFC’s senior men’s first and second teams take a short break from league action, while the third XV—known as the Gladiators—prepare for a Friday night clash under the Monmouth Avenue floodlights against Weymouth & Portland’s second XV (7.30pm).
Just two weeks ago, the same sides met in ideal conditions for a friendly, fast-paced game of social rugby, drawing an unusually large and enthusiastic crowd. On that occasion, the Gladiators emerged victorious.
Co-captains Mark Egan and Mark Cope will lead a refreshed 25-strong Gladiators squad, which includes several newcomers from Dorchester’s touch rugby programme. Touch rugby lead Sheon McBride is set to introduce these players for their first experience of Gladiator rugby.
Strong Start for the First XV
Dorchester’s first XV currently sit third in the Counties 2 Tribute Ale Dorset & Wilts South table, having suffered only one defeat in their opening six games. Developing combinations, smooth integration of former colts, and continued player progression are driving momentum within the squad.
Reinforcing cohesion, clarity, belief, and character remains central to the coaching team’s philosophy. With a competitive league featuring several local derbies, discipline will be crucial in converting performances into wins.
Dorchester boast the league’s second-highest points scored and second-highest points difference. Remarkably, their positive points difference mirrors the negative tally of local rivals Puddletown—adding extra intrigue to their meeting on November 29.
A XV Building Nicely
The A XV sit fourth in the Counties 3 Tribute Ale Dorset & Wilts South standings, with two wins from three matches. They are also one of just three teams to have passed the 100-point mark this season. Their next test is an away trip to Poole, who sit just one place below in the table.
A refreshed coaching setup, led by Sam Cload, has brought renewed energy. Cload has introduced a game plan—nicknamed “Victoria Sponge”—that the senior squads have fully embraced.
Cload said:
“I got lucky. I walked into a group who really wanted to move forwards. Success isn’t just results or league position—it’s how people feel being part of our squad. Anyone walking in now would feel respected for the contribution they make and the personality they bring. Our senior teams have become one team, all playing for the same thing—Victoria Sponge.”
A Club in a Strong Place
Across the board, Dorchester RFC continues to thrive. With two senior teams competing in leagues, a vibrant social side introducing new players to the game, a rapidly developing girls’ team, and a junior section exceeding 250 young players, the club’s foundations are strong.
The positive atmosphere is evident throughout the club—rugby played with commitment, community spirit, and smiles on faces.