Moseley coach Ian Smith concerned about British & Irish Cup cancellation
Dec 17 2010 by Brian Dick, Birmingham Mail
MOSELEY will press Ulster to make sure this weekend’s British & Irish Cup match goes ahead whatever the weather throws at the Belfast-based outfit.
The sides are supposed to meet this evening in a Pool C fixture due to kick off at the rather odd time of 4pm and Ian Smith’s men are not leaving until this morning.
But with snow and sub-zero temperatures forecast to last for all of today and tomorrow – and Moseley’s return passage booked for tomorrow – there is a concern the trip will be a wasted one.
However, having already played one midweek match this season – Tuesday’s 22-15 defeat to Bedford – and given the cost of getting to Ulster, the Billesley Common men are keen to ensure they do not have to make the journey twice.
Thankfully the RFU are helping out with airline and hotel bills but Moseley are still left having to find the four-figure balance - which is why they are so keen to make sure the game takes place.
“We need to get it played this weekend,” said head coach Smith. “We will not be flying out again so it’s got to go ahead.
“We need to find somewhere to play it, either on Friday or Saturday and if not the points should be given to us.”
That eventuality, albeit a remote one, would leave Moseley superbly placed to qualify for the quarter-finals after they got their cup campaign off to such a superb start last Saturday.
The 24-21 victory at London Welsh, their first in the competition, was the product of their best performance for several months.
Not only did Moseley score four tries, for only the second time this season, they played with a freedom and creativity that was in stark contrast to their offerings of the last few months.
Perhaps even more than winning without playing, Smith would love to see a reprise of last weekend’s display. “We need to get back to that London Welsh level where we played with an enthusiasm and boldness.
“There will be some tired boys there but after this weekend we will have a nine-day break that will be their reward.”
Smith will attempt to freshen up his side by bringing Andy Borgen into fly-half following his excellent cameo in the pivotal role at Old Deer Park.
“Borgy is a good bloke to have around,” Smith said. “He’s got loads of energy and you want that in your side so it’s a good opportunity for him.”
Callum MacBurnie will also be given a rare chance after starting the season poorly and losing his confidence.
“We took him out to give him the chance to relax and regroup in training. He knows this is an opportunity to enjoy himself and not feel any pressure.”
The former Scotland Under-20 player has not started a game since October 10 when Mose were routed at Nottingham. Mike Ellery, Andy Reay and Mike Gillick have also been recalled.
