Banbury RUFC are back on the road this weekend as they travel to Nuneaton RFC for Round 8 of the Regional 1 Midlands season. After a run of narrow defeats, the Bulls will be eager to turn strong performances into points and rediscover the winning touch that marked their earlier-season victories.

Head Coach Soane Tongaʻuiha and Director of Rugby Matt Goode take their squad to Liberty Way knowing that the margins have been incredibly tight. Banbury have been competitive in every contest, and their resilience will again be key against an experienced Nuneaton side.

Banbury’s Season So Far
Banbury’s campaign has been a story of close contests and frustratingly fine margins. Despite positive spells in every match, Banbury have seen several results slip away late on.

R1: Bromsgrove 31–19 Banbury
R2: Banbury 50–15 Newent
R3: Dudley Kingswinford 14–27 Banbury
R4: Banbury 19–20 Lichfield
R5: Lutterworth 42–18 Banbury
R6: Stourbridge 30–28 Banbury
R7: Banbury 19–20 Newport (Salop)

With three losses by two points or fewer, Banbury have shown they can compete with any team in the division. Now, the task is converting that competitive edge into victories, something Tongaʻuiha will be pushing for as the squad approaches the midpoint of the season.

The Challenge Ahead: Nuneaton RFC
Nuneaton RFC, one of the Midlands’ most established clubs, are known for their disciplined structure, strong set-piece, and home-ground advantage at Liberty Way. Their physicality up front and speed on the edges make them a difficult side to break down.

Traditionally strong at home, Nuneaton are organised, well-coached, and experienced at this level, a combination that demands accuracy and composure from their opponents.

Banbury will need to start fast, impose themselves at the breakdown, and play with the attacking tempo that has caused so many teams problems already this year. Keeping pressure on Nuneaton’s defensive line and taking points when they’re available will be crucial.

Key Focus Areas for Banbury

Converting Opportunities
Discipline & Territory
Set-Piece Stability
Staying in the Fight

From the Coaches
Head Coach Soane Tongaʻuiha will be demanding a clinical performance, while Director of Rugby Matt Goode continues to emphasise progression, cohesion, and belief within the squad.

With Banbury’s travelling support always vocal, the Bulls will head to Nuneaton determined to produce a complete performance and bring valuable league points back to the Graf UK Stadium.

Final Word
This Round 8 clash sets the stage for a compelling afternoon of rugby. Nuneaton’s home strengths and Banbury’s desire to turn narrow losses into momentum make this a key fixture for both sides. Expect a physical, tactical, and fiercely competitive battle at Liberty Way.

Kick-off is at 2:15pm. Safe travels to all supporters making the journey, your backing could make all the difference.