UEL Face Royal Test

Ben Smith runs through the two sides ahead of what promises to be an intriguing match up.

UEL are looking to build on a promising second half of rugby in their most recent  game against University of Arts when they face table toppers Queen Mary’s of London this Wednesday.

UEL currently lay third in the South Eastern 5B division on nine points.

Form

Queen Mary’s have won all three outings this season, and collecting all three bonus points in the process.

UEL have also had a successful season so far, winning their last two games and running Greenwich close in their first game of the season.

As it stands, Queen Mary’s of London sit on top with 15 points.

Permutations

A win for UEL would see them close the gap on first place and have them within touching distance of the promotion place. If UEL win by more than seven points and score four tries, they’ll be one point away from Queen Mary’s.

However, a win for Queen Mary’s would put them in a commanding position at the top of the table and will subsequently make them hot favourites for the title.

UEL look to be in no danger whatsoever of being relegated so can play calm yet expressively in a bid to hand Queen Mary’s their first defeat of the home season.

UEL’s Home Fortress

While it’s expected that Queen Mary’s score in the clash, UEL’s home venue, East London Rugby Club, has become a fortress as of late.

To win the last three home games is an impressive feat but to not concede in any of their three previous encounters (albeit one being a walkover) is something rather special.

Queen Mary’s didn’t have everything their own way last time out against Kent 3rds, narrowly winning by just 11 points at home to Kent.

An away game to UEL promises to be the sternest test Queen Mary’s have faced this season.

Prediction

This doesn’t look to be a one-sided match on paper, yet promises to be a high scoring game.

While the UEL side are in good form and have an impressive home record I believe Queen Mary’s will come through the match and showcase their class, proving they deserve to be where they are.

Prediction: UEL 15-24 Queen Mary’s