As Hull RUFC prepare for Saturday’s derby with Ionians at Chants Ave, director of rugby Gary Pearce has warned his players that his players will face a very committed opponent. Ionians come into the game having won their four matches and they would love nothing better than to ruin the home side’s chances of winning the National 2 North title on home soil. Hull need one point to secure the title and promotion to National League 1 but Pearce knows his side will have to be at their best against their Brantingham Park neighbours.
“I expect Ionians to come here and play,” Pearce said.
“They have a good, rounded squad with plenty of experience of playing in National League 1.
“We know they will come and try to upset our plans.
“We respect them and we know they will be up for this game.
“They’ll be very committed but I think the game will be played in a good spirit.
“We always put a lot of emphasis on discipline and enjoyment.
“We tell the players to not be the person that lets the others down.
“We can tell this is a big game because the intensity in training has gone up a notch.”
HULL RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL CLUB 