Richmond Rugby manager Andy Quigley says his side are capable of beating top of the table Cornish Pirates this weekend despite two successive defeats.
The London-based side were beaten 28-17 by Doncaster last time out and have lost both games since their win over London Scottish on the opening day.
Pirates though go into the weekend boasting a perfect record after three wins from three. Wins over Doncaster, Coventry and last time out against Hartpury RFC, who they dismantled 46-17, have proven them to be the front runners for promotion to the Premiership.
Quigley said he recognises his side have a difficult task but that they are more than capable of overcoming the league leaders.
“The last few weeks have been a challenge and we realise they’ve (Cornish Pirates) had a fantastic start, averaging 38 points per game,” he said.
“Our defence is going to have to be good but we believe in ourselves and our strengths.
“We’re under no illusions it’s going to be tough, but two years ago we went there with nobody giving us a chance and came away with the win. There’s no reason why we can’t do the same again.”
Quigley praised his side for their performances so far and says the goal for the rest of the season is simply to improve on last year.
“We need to improve our first phase and our line-outs to cause an upset but these are small changes,” he added.
“We’ve put ourselves in a strong position to win the last two matches with ten minutes to go and just fallen a little short so we’re hoping this weekend is when we can make it count.
“Ultimately the players are the ones that set the goals for the season ahead.
“Since being promoted to the Championship we have been a continually improving side. In our first season we came 10th, then last year we came ninth. So, I suppose this year our aim should be to come eighth and see where we go from there.”
Elsewhere, it’s a bottom of the table clash at the Athletic Ground where London Scottish host Jersey.
The Exiles will be looking to build on what was an impressive second-half display against Nottingham last weekend when a 26-0 half-time deficit was reduced to 29-19.
Scottish will be hoping to pick up their first victory of the season against the only other side in the division that is yet to pick up a win.
Feature image from Richmond’s defeat to Doncaster, courtesy of Roger Wooldridge, with thanks
