Preview Titans at home against Hull

Taunton Titans return to action at Veritas Park on Saturday for their only home fixture of February. And they do so full of confidence, having won their last home game– against fellow relegation battlers Esher – and off the back of a sensational28-50 victory at Chinnor last time out. The result leaves the pride of Somerset just two points behind Esher and five points adrift of Chinnor heading into this weekend’s encounter with Hull.

Hull’s debut season at National One level has been a difficult one. With no wins after eighteen rounds, they are rooted to the bottom of the table and in their most recent match lost 12-41 to Plymouth Albion. If every remaining match this season feels like a cup final for Tony Yapp’s Taunton team, it really is now must-win for Hull each time they take the field if they are to preserve their National One status.

Promoted as champions of National League Two North last season, Hull RUFC is playing at the highest level it has yet reached since its formation in 1992 following the merger of Old Hymerians RUFC and Hull and East Riding RUFC (1989). Back row Alex Todd will be familiar to the Titans’ coach from his time at Exeter University and they have recently welcomed back experienced scrum-half Rob Watts to their colours. They are coached by former Samoan international Mike Umaga (brother of All Black legend Tana and father of England international Jacob). Dual-code Tongan international winger Tevita Vaikona is possibly their most famous alumnus.

When the two teams met for the first ever time in the East Riding of Yorkshire in the autumn it was a close game that Hull felt they could have won. Taunton led throughout and were victorious by 28-36 but it was not a conclusive triumph and Hull were disappointed not to secure at least a losing bonus point. This Saturday they have to target their first win in the division– they can afford nothing less. Which means that Taunton Titans must be every bit as magnificent as they have been in their last three outings if they are to claim the choccies this Saturday.

It promises to be a busy Saturday at Veritas Park with no further places available for the pre-match carvery lunch. The Titans will be hoping for a big West Country roar from the supporters and, with the weather set fair, let’s hope that the free-scoring Taunton side can continue their recent winning form. The pre match lunch will also have over 100 former players all casting their eyes across the current squad wearing the Taunton Badge. The2^nd XV are also playing at home with a visit from Oldfield Old Boys. Following both games the 6 Nations will be on the big screens showing Wales Vs England.

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We are delighted to welcome RDA Insulation as our match sponsors this weekend and they are also proud sponsors of Taunton Stalwart Isaac Dalton. Established in 2007 after 25 years in the industry, RDA was established by Roger Doble,  who’s philosophy is to provide client service that is:

• Responsive to client needs to meet time pressures our clients may be experiencing
• Workmanship that meets and at times exceeds the expectations of clients in the biggest and smallest contracts
• Quotes that are competitive, easy to understand, and meet the requirements of the most demanding contract terms.

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They understand that jobs have to be delivered on time; deadlines are agreed and met.

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Entrance to Veritas Park is £15 per adult. The fabulous two-course pre-match carvery lunch is sold out but the bars will be open and those with no carvery booking will be able to buy delicious pasties. Parking at Veritas Park on Hyde Lane is available and costs £5 per vehicle. Kick-off is at 3pm.

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