Eccles to compete in new regionalised Level 8 league.
The long awaited new league structure has finally been annouced by the RFU. Nearly three years in the planning it delivers the most significant changes in 30 years to the Adult Male Competition Structure.
The new structure is intended to deliver:
- Reduced travel time and distance for the majority
- More localised matches
- New Cup competition to begin in March 2023
Following the unification of the RFU and Lancashire ADM leagues, Eccles have been placed in the ‘Counties 2 North West' division (Level 8). This will see the men in Navy and White hoops enjoy local encounters against De La Salle, Trafford MV, Tyldesley, Wigan and Orrell as well as trips to Fleetwood, Heaton Moor, Littleborough, Liverpool Collegiate, Oldham and Ormskirk. At the time of writing it’s believed that the league winners and runners up will be promoted to 'Counties 1 North West’ (Level 7).
The season will kick off on Saturday 3 September. 2022/23 1XV Fixtures are published here
The 12 team leagues means less 1XV home games than previous seasons but there is a prospect of cup competitions and the opportunity for friendlies to fill the gaps in the schedule. Eccles will also be fielding 2XV and 3XV teams next season so there will be no shortage of competitive mens rugby to enjoy at Gorton Street.
The Eccles 3XV, Captained by John Whailing, will face Bolton 4, Bowdon 3, Bury 3, Buxton, Carrington, Crewe & Nantwich 3, Heaton Moor 3, Holmes Chapel 2, Manchester Hawks, Marple 3, Newcastle (Staffs) 3, Wythenshawe in the Halbro NW Division 5 East.
The Eccles Senior Colts (a homegrown combined sqaud of U17s and U18s) have been seeded in North West Colts League ’Senior E’ and will face tough competition from Aldwinians, Burnley, Glossop & Marple, Hoylake, Trafford MV, West Park St Helens and Widnes when thier season kicks off Sunday 4 September.
And let's not forget there will also be regular games for our Eccles 'Elephants' Vets team.
So, plenty of exciting challenges ahead for the Eccles Senior Section and lots of rugby to look forward to come September, in the club's official 125th Anniversary year.
Before the new season kicks off, there will be the ‘Eccles Cup’ Invitational Mens Rugby Tournament and Beer Festival on Saturday 20th August; and there’ll be a 1XV and 2XV away day preseason fixture vs Rhyll & District RFC on Saturday 27th August.
Our Mens section is growing. Why not join us. We offer rugby for all levels of ability and experience and new players are welcomed.
Mens preseason training starts on 28th June 18:45 and will continue every Tuesday & Thursday thereafter.
For more information on the club's teams, facilities and activities contact us at mensrugby@ecclesrfc.org.uk or call Sam Simpson 07935 403171
