This weekend London Skolars will travel to Pennine Way for the gigantic clash against local rivals Hemel Stags, a game that throughout recent history has been extremely ferocious, this time it has the added spice of feuding families. It looks likely that classy fullback James Anthony (pictured) will come up against his younger brother Alex (pictured) who is also set to feature in the outside backs. But what some will deem the more mouth-watering encounter takes place at the heart of each team, with the Coleman brothers (Head coach of London Skolars, Jermaine and Jymel) set to dictate their respective side’s tempo at half back.

Both teams enter the game in relatively poor form, making a victory in this game all the more necessary. Hemel Stags have notched up two victories in the last 8, the first of those two coming at home against South Wales Scorpions and the second coming against a depleted All Golds side. In the mean time they have had a host of relatively heavy defeats against some of the stronger competitors in the division. Although it should be noted that their coach was relatively pleased with the improvement shown in their most recent performance against Rochdale Hornets (In which they lost 32-14) they will be looking to build upon that, with a particular focus on their defensive attitude. James Woodburn-Hall who has represented Skolars several times before while on dual registration from London Bronco’s is set to play for Hemel.

London Skolars this weekend couldn’t have wished for a better opponent. The loss to previously winless South Wales Scorpions the previous weekend is easily argued as the worst in the clubs recent history. However in times like these, with adversity facing a side, the prospect of being dominated by your local rivals can motivate a side into a response. The side have had an extremely physical week this week as they attempt to rectify a multitude of issues that have been identified since the new coaching staff arrived at the helm and this week in particular, the group began to reap rewards which they hope will replicate themselves on the field come game day. The club have in recent times, played its best rugby against its Hertfordshire neighbours, last year beating them at New River 34-28 and away 24-27. As well as prior to that, obliterating them in what has possibly been the most meaningful game between the two sides, in the 2013 play offs 44-28. The club hopes that the fans will get down this weekend and back the side, as it is you who make this occasion as meaningful as it is. In turn, the side hope to repay your faith.