This weekend, we welcome our friends from “over the water”, Sefton. They are currently ninth, having recorded their sixth victory last Saturday at home to Manchester Medics.
This was a welcome return to form because, hitherto, they had not won since Armistice Day, 11th November, last year. However, their league position is deceptive because, of their nine losses, no less than five have been by five points or less. In addition, lest we forget, they pulled off the shock result of the season when, on the first day of the season, 2nd September, they defeated promotion favourites, Broughton Park, 24-22.
Anselmians cannot afford to be complacent!
Our visit to West Derby village last autumn was successful. We emerged with a hard fought victory 25-14 and this bucked a trend of recent years. Games between the sides have usually gone with home advantage. Last season, we lost at West Derby, 0-17, but prevailed at Malone Field 32-25. The previous season we won 40-18 at home, but lost the return fixture 22-35, despite being 0-35 down at half-time.
Sefton have a distinguished history. Founded in 1907 by a group of schoolmasters, none of whom were native Scousers, it was decided that the new rugby should be called “The Aliens,” and for the first few years, the membership was restricted to the teaching profession.
Our connections to Sefton are well known, of course, with several Anselmians having long and distinguished service for both clubs, but all this amity will count for nothing as the Saints press for a play-off place.
As usual, spectators can look forward to an open and entertaining game.