Kick Off Time: 1300hrs
Venue: Allianz Twickenham Stadium
Every grassroots team competing in the Papa John’s Cup envision walking out at the headquarters of English rugby, Twickenham Stadium. On Saturday, Brunel University’s men’s team will realise that dream for consecutive seasons. They will face the East Midlands’ Stamford who were crowned champions of their respective league like Brunel this season.
Despite a day out at Twickenham (now named Allianz Stadium) being a very rare accolade either side of the result, both teams have not come just for the experience. Brunel hope to get their hands on this year’s trophy in a bid of redemption after falling short last year. Regardless, it will be a great memory for every player out there on Saturday.
The Papa John’s competition was not always in the minds of the Brunel squad this year; despite finishing top of the table, it was a competitive league battle throughout the season right until the very end. Only ten points separated Brunel and fourth place compared to Stamford’s thirty-three-point surplus over fourth. After all wins, losses and bruises this year, can both teams bring confident spirits and provide a high-octane clash for those in attendance this weekend.
After being awarded a home walk over in the first round, Brunel have gone on to accrue one-hundred and seventy-eight points in just three games leading up to the final. This blitz attack has been led by captain and fly-half Jack Thorn, most notably a kicking virtuoso but has been play-making all season, landing on the scoresheet last game.
Stamford have had a contrasting cup run so far, with several close games they have often found themselves having to go to a deep dark place to find the win. Their most convincing performance being against Finchley, a team that Brunel has faced in the league this season in two cagey fixtures. The best example of the grit this side possesses would be the 49-44 semi-final win over Novocastrians, the game had it all and it even saw extra time, a rare sight in knockout rugby. Will Stamford’s resilience be enough for them against a young and hungry opponent.
Brunel’s men’s team is much different to most grassroots clubs in the competition as it is a part of Ealing Trailfinders academy. This team is pushed on with development in mind, giving great experience in the adult game to a team which is made up of young men. What is lacking in war stripes from this side is certainly made up for in skill and desire. After all, many of the players on the pristine Allianz pitch this Saturday dream of walking out to 82,000 people with their countries badge on their chest.
A Papa John’s final, in fact the whole competition provides an opportunity for family, friends and club supporters alike to show their passion for one final time this season. And for the players an opportunity to wear the badge proud and bring home a new piece of silverware for the clubhouse cabinet. The winner is not certain but what is certain is a sea of fans arriving in high spirits to see their team lift the cup. Can Brunel redeem last year, be crowned champions and ultimately be able to call Twickenham Stadium home.