Founded in 1875, their Wood Terrace HQ, which doubles up as a cricket venue, is destined to shortly be confined to their history, as plans are at an advanced stage for a move to a new ground.

Westoe RFC appear to be enduring a difficult period at the moment and are currently languishing at the wrong end of the National League 2 (North) table in 14th position.

Westoe RFC have accumulated 22 league points to date, made up of 4 wins (3 4-try bonus points and 3 losing bonus points in that total) and 11 losses. Their last three games have not been good, with losses to Caldy (A, 66 – 12), Otley (H, 19 – 20) and last week probably predictably at league leaders Stourbridge (52 – 5).

Having said all that, to renew rivalries with DMPRFC will probably be sufficient motivation for them to lift their game on Saturday and as a result they will not be underestimated.

With a mixture of youth and experience and containing several former DMPRFC players, including their current player/coach Mark Bedworth, Westoe RFC will see it as a priority to start the second half of the season and the New Year in positive fashion.

Not having had a game last week, due to Yiewsley Drive deemed to be unplayable, may not be the ideal preparation for a derby match, but DMPRFC have trained well and have taken the opportunity to get over some niggling aches and pains.

All players will be anxious to get the nod for this game, but with the Development XV steam-rollering West Harltepool 2ND XV last Saturday (A, 66 – 0) the competition for the starting line-up is not a forgone conclusion.

(Match day squad to follow)