Following the third consecutive international victory in as many weeks, we now look ahead to the final two matches against Germany & Czechia, both away from home.

Head Coach Dave Hunter, gave the following update from camp;

“Five test matches in consecutive weeks was always going to test the depth of our squad. Luckily we’re in a position where we can rotate players and bring in guys to cover injuries. It’s a real testament to the work being done domestically by volunteers that we find ourselves with quality players to call on.

The first three matches have provided us with some great challenges and it’s given us the opportunity to really work on our weaknesses. While the matches against Norway and Albania were pleasing from a scoreboard perspective, as a squad we were far from happy with the display. I think that Saturdays performance against Serbia showed what the squad is capable of when they stick to a game plan. The effort they put in for one another was outstanding and they should be very proud of themselves.

The support we’ve received from the Dutch public has been great! I’m not sure they fully appreciate how much they mean to the boys. We’ve got a massive match against Germany this weekend and we’re hoping as many as possible will make the trip over the border to support us!

We now enter the last 2 matches of the year. Both away games where I’m expecting the players to raise standards once again. Germany always turn up with a very strong team and will be desperate to keep hold of the Griffin Cup. A trophy that means a lot to both teams. And I know from experience that the Czech Republic are a very difficult team to beat at home. They’ll have huge support there and we’ll have to keep the standards high in order to compete with them.”

Operations Manager Matt Rigby, added;

Operationally, off-field has been fantastic. We have recorded a new annual figure of attendance at 780 supporters for home international matches. This record is over 8% higher than the previous record set in 2022. It’s been great to see so many committed supporters who have followed the team to all three matches, but also really exciting that we have welcomed new audiences to the sport for their first taste. The number of younger & female supporters have also been outstanding, and remains an important target for us with the addition of the Womens & Youth Sections to our sport this year, and will create a pathway for all.

The support in general this year has been exceptional from our fans. It would be fantastic to see our “Wall of Oranje” with us when we face Germany on Saturday! There is also availability on our team bus for supporters to follow us as we complete the campaign to face Czechia next week.

I’d like to finish by saying a huge thank you to all of our hosts this year, who have helped make this years home fixtures a success; RC The Bassets, Zaandijk Rugby & RC Zwolle for their hosting of the internationals, and also to RC Nieuwegein for hosting our Mens, Womens & U19’s sessions all season”

Supporters who want to book on the team coach from Wroclaw to Vrchalbi on Saturday 28th October, are asked to contact info@rugbyleague.nl to reserve their complimentary spot.