Andy Mead

Warren excited as Barking prepare for Essex derby

Colin Munford Friday, March 8, 2013
9:00 AM

Director of rugby Nick Warren confident going into derby with Southend on Saturday at Gale Dtreet.

Barking may well be condemned to life in National Three South East next year but director of rugby Nick Warren says games do not come any bigger than their Essex clash with Southend this weekend,

Southend come to Gale Street fighting to keep their place in National Two South and off the back of a 32-23 victory over Bournemouth last weekend.

And Warren has already questioned his side if they cannot get themselves up for a game of this intensity.

“Whatever league you are in, any Essex derby is a big match and for the club it means a lot,” said Warren.

“They have had a bit of a revival of late and have made their intentions clear of their desire to stay in the division.

“Since Christmas they have had a change in the coaching setup and they have spent a bit of money to try and keep themselves in the league.

“I have said to the players already that if they can’t get up for a game like this — and be prepared both physically and mentally — then it brings into question next season.”

The Goresbrook side have six games left this season and face the five teams directly above them in the table.

And Warren is hopeful of a strong end to the campaign as they play a vital role in who will go down with them.

“I am very excited about the final six games,” he added. “After Southend on Satuday you have Clifton, who are another young side, and Taunton who appear to be struggling with internal problems.

“We also have games against Bournemouth and Lydney, so I’m hopeful of a good end to the season. Two wins would boost confidence massively.”

Andy Mead and Jay Udo-Udoma could be back in the squad at the weekend after missing the last couple of weeks with injury, while Barking will assess skipper Craig Ratford later in the week after he went off with a pulled quad muscle in Saturday’s 65-7 loss at Henley.

Warren said: “There is a bit more depth than there has been in the past, but with both Andy and Jay back the squad isn’t looking too bad.”