Waterloo are rugby aristocracy. As recently as twenty years ago, they were playing in the top division of England rugby. Just over forty years ago, they were in the John Player Cup final at Twickenham, narrowly losing to Gosforth. They have won the Lancashire Cup seven times; their most recent victory was only ten years ago. They have provided numerous internationals to a wide variety of countries.
This league, the sixth tier of English rugby union, is the lowest they have ever played. It is the highest level we have ever played! It goes without saying that this game is our first meeting.

Waterloo have won four of their six games so far. Impressive wins against Penrith and Manchester are alongside defeats in the Isle of Man to Douglas and the one point loss, 23-24, at home, to Birkenhead Park.

They are currently 6th and, last season, their first in North One West since being relegated from the old National League in 2016-17, they finished fourth.

Last week’s two bonus points at Manchester is a start and Anselmians have shown talent, application and determination in their games so far, but they have been punished for their errors. They have played better when it seems the game is lost, but they must concentrate for the full eighty minutes if they are to get any joy from their distinguished visitors.