As the end of the 2019 is just around the corner, Rising East caught up with East London Rugby Head Coach, Eddie Gooby to get his thoughts on his side’s progress thus far this season.
East London currently sit in fourth place in the London 3 Essex league.
They are just four points behind Harlow and have a real shot at ending the year in the top three.
East London have been enjoying what looks like a strong season so far, currently fourth on the table what has pleased you most about the season thus far?
“This season was always going to tough matching the standard we have set ourselves last season. So i am really pleased with the start of the season we have had a large influx of players and 12 of which have played first team rugby in the first 9 games. . My main aim was to consolidate and change the style of play to a freer flowing game and we are making great strides in this area. We need to stay patient and I know we will get strong as the season progresses. Unfortunately, because of the clubs make up players will be away throughout December and we will be tested, and I will be able to see what depth we have in the clubs 2nd team.”
As we approach the end of 2019, are there any players in particular that have impressed you? Any young players coming through that have really kicked on from last season?
“My Ethos as always been the team comes first and the better individuals will shine through and yes this is happening. We have now got a established 2nd and 3rd Teams something we struggled with last season. This is mainly due our hard work off the field recruiting and the introduction of Queen Mary’s University based in Mile End. Currently both teams sit in the top three in their respective leagues. The facts speak for themselves at least 12 of these players all under 22 are 1s and 2nd team rugby.”
You have Dagenham and Redbridge coming in tomorrow to play in the cup match, I believe you are facing some challenges with a number of experienced players choosing to rest this week before the return to the league next week against Basildon? What are you hoping to get out of the match?
“Yes, Dagenham have come at the wrong time for us we have 14 first team squad members unavailable so 4 players will make their first team debuts and another 6 players are moving up from the 2s squad. I will be interested to see how they cope with the pace and the aggression of the game. I am under no illusions is going to be a very tough day at the office the following weeks game against Basildon I will have at least 7 players back so hopefully we will pick up the win to keep us on track and then its cup final day against the Steelers.”
With two more league games to go before the new year, is the plan to consolidate a top four position or make a big push towards the top three with Harlow just four points ahead?
“The Christmas break cannot come quick enough for us our injury list is growing, and the months rest will mean I will get back at least 6 players. We have a lot of work to do over the next two weeks and if we get the results, we needed I expect to be in the top four and looking forward to the new year and a trip to league leaders Chelmsford. I still feel that are not far away from hitting the form of last season our previous league games have proven we are going in the right direction. Only time and our commitment will tell.”
Finally, on the 14th of December you have a big battle with a side you know well in the Kings Cross Steelers, firstly what does this match mean? Is it very much another day at the office or is it about a bit more bragging rights around the club? Secondly what do you feel the Steelers have brought to East London Rugby Club?
“First of all, both teams have great respect for each other. Every time we play them its like a cup final and the passion from both clubs is tremendous. The bottom line for us is we need the win to maintain our push up the league and that’s our focus. I talk to the Steelers coaches all the time and I would be lying if I said I would rather be talking to them with a win under my belt instead of the other way around. Regarding what the Steelers have bought to the club firstly a rivalry and a buzz on training nights. No other club in the country can say that they anything from 100 to 200 players training on Tuesday and Thursday nights and every week have four games at East London Rugby club. To sum all this up East London rugby club is the club to join its thriving on and off the field and the committee are working tirelessly behind the scenes to get sponsorship and push the club forward and long may this continue.”
