A packed day of community rugby is in store at Surcouf Park this weekend as Dorchester RFC stage a bumper programme featuring three senior fixtures.
The county town’s first XV welcome Wheatsheaf in a Counties 2 Tribute Ale Dorset & Wilts South league clash, kicking off at 2.15pm. Dorchester currently sit fifth in the table, one place above their visitors, and a home victory could see them climb the standings if results elsewhere go their way.
While Wheatsheaf have been regular opponents for Dorchester’s A XV in recent seasons, it has been several years since the two clubs’ first teams last met. With both sides closely matched in the table, a hard-fought and physical contest is expected.
Head coach Sam Cload and his coaching staff are likely to field a settled line-up, with many familiar faces set to start. Half-backs Cohen Emery and Jack Hayward are both available, as is the front-row combination of Kensie Parker, Scott Clarke and Lewis McBride.
Lee King brings valuable experience to the second row alongside captain Brad Mullins, while the ever-reliable Tom Wood is set to resume his customary role at full-back.
Dorchester’s A XV also have league action, taking on Oakmeadians Seconds. The visitors currently sit seventh, two places below Dorchester in fifth, and with both sides having suffered recent defeats to table-toppers Blandford, the fixture promises to be fiercely contested.
The A XV will be bolstered by the experience of Alan Gale, Henry Quinney, Mark Egan and Tim Stephens, while youngsters Lennon Emery and Louis Batten are also available. Alex Sharp’s dependable kicking boot will provide further confidence for the home side.
Before the league fixtures get under way, Dorchester’s much-loved Gladiators open proceedings with a social friendly against a Wheatsheaf veterans’ side, kicking off at 12.30pm. An open and entertaining game is expected before festivities move into the clubhouse for the club’s annual Christmas jumper party.
Adding to the occasion, Dorchester’s junior players will form a guard of honour for the senior teams, as the entire club comes together to celebrate the festive season with music, food and plenty of community spirit.
Supporters are encouraged to bring along their best — or worst — Christmas jumpers for what promises to be a true family day at the club.
