CLUB STATEMENT
Rugby is a physically demanding sport, which is why we love it. Unfortunately injuries are a part of it, which all clubs have to deal with. However, the injuries within the men's section at Eccles RFC this season have reached unprecedented levels.
Following four season-ending injuries our 1XV picked up in our first game back in August our casualty list escalated each week, particularly within the "tight five" forwards. Some of those players are still awaiting surgery from serious injuries suffered several months ago. We currently have over 50 players, across all levels, unavailable for selection. As consequence our homegrown playing reserves have been tested and a total of 54 different players have represented Eccles 1XV this season, including several young men making their senior debuts.
This week, we finally reached breaking point. After exploring every avenue, our strongest available XV required asking casual 3XV players to play Level 6 1XV rugby. This clearly presents a serious player welfare risk that we are not prepared to condone.
Unprecedented times call for unprecedented action. After exploring all possibilities with League Officials, we were left with no option other than to concede tomorrow's 1XV fixture vs. Bowdon. This also requires we concede our 2XV vs Kendal and 3XV vs North Manchester games this weekend.
This decision was not easily reached and was done with full consideration to the consequences. We extend our sincere apologies to all the clubs involved and thank their officials, players and supporters for their understanding.
