Physical examination awaits Rae's in-form charges

COVENTRY

- 

Rugby will be looking to carry their perfect December form into the New Year this afternoon when they face opponents with a point to prove.The Blue-and-White enjoyed a stellar end to the year, including home wins over London Scottish and Nottingham, while they also overcame Caldy and Cambridge on the road to make it four wins out of four in an excellent month.

It has left them fifth in the Champ table and looking upwards going into 2025, but for today’s opponents, Cornish Pirates, the long trip north represents a chance to hit the reset button after a polar opposite December.

wash of Cambridge and their victory over Richmond at the end of November, the following month saw a reversal in fortunes for joint-head coaches Gavin Cattle and Alan Paver, who oversaw four defeats on the bounce.

The last two have been particularly painful, a 47-10 hammering at Chinnor followed by Saturday's crushing 41-14 home defeat to Ealing Trailfinders.

But there is nothing more dangerous than a wounded animal and the hosts will be looking for a strong performance in front of their New Year's Day supporters at Butts Park Arena (3pm kick off).

Jordon Poole captains Alex Rae’s side from hooker, leading an experienced front row alongside Aristot Benz-Salomon and Matt Johnson.

In the engine room, Dan Green partners Senitiki Nayalo, while the back row sees Allan Ferrie and Tom Ball flank Morgan Strong at number eight, with Strong continuing his influential role after an outstanding first half of the season.