MATT Williams is calling on Chinnor to start 2020 on the right foot when they face Hull Ionians this weekend.
The Thame-based side return to National League 1 action in Yorkshire on Saturday (2pm) following the Christmas break.
Chinnor’s players reported back for training on Monday and are raring to go for the second half of the season after their seven-match unbeaten run was ended by Richmond in the final game of 2019.
It saw the side slip to sixth in the table, but they are only nine points behind the leaders and director of rugby Williams is hoping to begin the new year with a victory.
He said: “We were pleased for the Christmas break - it came at the right time.
“It was obviously a disappointing result against Richmond, but after 16 games the boys needed a break and we’re looking forward to Hull away on Saturday.”
Chinnor are boosted by the return of Ehize Ehizode (concussion) while Camilo Parilli-Ocampo (torn bicep) is in contention for his debut, but Chris Elder (ankle) is still injured.
Williams added: “The boys are fresh, they’re feeling good and enjoyed their first training session back on Monday.
“It was just a blow out to get the Christmas turkey out of their legs and we’re back to it again on Thursday evening.”
Saturday’s fixture goes ahead despite the death of Hull player Billy Hardy earlier this week.
The thoughts of everyone at Chinnor Rugby Club Thame are with Billy’s friends and family at this difficult time.
Williams added: “All of us at Chinnor send our condolences to Hull.
“It’s always a tough time when you lose someone within a club.”
SATURDAY’S SQUAD
Chinnor (v Hull Ionians, away): from Ashby, Ehizode, Fidler, George, Goss, Harries, Hodson, Kirwan, Laverick, May, McNulty, Parilli-Ocampo, Pieterse, Rees, C Ryan, W Ryan, Selway, Thomas, Treviranus, Tyas, Watson, Worrall.
