Banbury RUFC head to Gloucestershire this weekend for their final league match before the Christmas break, travelling to face Newent RFC at The Recreation Ground. With the Bulls coming off a convincing 32–15 home victory over Drybrook, confidence is returning at just the right moment as Soane Tongaʻuiha’s side looks to build momentum heading into the second half of the season.

This will be the second meeting between the clubs this year, following Banbury’s emphatic 50–15 win at the Graf UK Stadium back in September. But with winter conditions settling in and Newent always tough to beat on home turf, a very different contest is expected this time around.

Banbury’s Season So Far
It has been a season defined by resilience, hard lessons, and flashes of high-quality rugby from an improving Banbury squad. After a spell of narrow losses and difficult away trips, the Bulls have responded well with two composed, confident performances in their last three matches.

Results to Date:

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)
R8: Nuneaton 5–63 Banbury
R9: Banbury 7–14 Bridgnorth
R10: Bournville 54–17 Banbury
R11: Banbury 32–15 Drybrook

The most recent performance against Drybrook showcased many of the qualities Tongaʻuiha has been driving throughout the season: improved discipline, stronger set-piece control, sharper decision-making, and a clear attacking identity.

Momentum now needs to be carried into another difficult away trip.

The Opposition: Newent RFC
Newent RFC remain one of the most competitive and spirited sides in the division, with a proud community rugby culture and a reputation for being extremely difficult to beat at home. The Rec is a challenging venue, and Newent’s familiarity with winter conditions often gives them an advantage in tight, physical contests.

What to Expect from Newent:

Physical Battle Up Front – Their forwards relish contact, especially in home fixtures.
Defensive Tenacity – Newent often force opponents into errors through line speed and channel pressure.
Territory-Based Rugby – Smart kicking and pressure in the corners are hallmarks of their game.
Work Rate and Commitment – Regardless of recent results, Newent always bring intensity and pride to their performance.

Banbury will need to be prepared for 80 minutes of close-quarters rugby and ensure they adapt quickly to the state of the pitch, weather, and tempo.

Key Focus Areas for Banbury

Physicality & Breakdown Efficiency
Set-Piece Foundations
Patience with Ball in Hand
Momentum Management
Confidence from Last Week

From the Coaches
Head Coach Soane Tongaʻuiha has emphasised consistency and concentration this week, while Director of Rugby Matt Goode continues to stress the importance of taking chances and closing out tight games, something Banbury have steadily improved upon.

Final Word
A trip to The Rec is never straightforward, but Banbury head to this Round 12 clash with renewed belief and a strong platform to build upon. A win before Christmas would provide a major boost and set the tone for a positive run into the new year.

Kick-off is 2:15pm in Newent.
Safe travels to all supporters making the journey.