Bridgnorth handed a Plate walkover
Bridgnorth have secured an end-of-season shot at silverware – despite not taking to the field on Saturday, writes Nick Elwell.
The All Blacks progressed through to the final of the North Midlands Plate after Shropshire rivals Whitchurch were forced to forfeit Saturday's semi-final due to a shortage of players.
Strangely, Hereford also had a walkover when Dudley Kingswinford suffered from the same problem and will now meet Bridgnorth in the final on May 7.
Bridgnorth will now turn their attention to their battle to secure National League Three Midlands survival.
The All Blacks travel to Old Halesonians on Saturday looking to build on their superb victory against table-topping Nuneaton in their last outing.
And their attacking strength should be bolstered by the return of Simon Fletcher,Matt Farrington and Darren Brick.
Meanwhile, some of Bridgnorth's talented juniors have been mixing it with England rugby's elite. The youngsters shared matchday at 10-time English champions Leicester Tigers as well as taking part in the club's coaching clinic.
The group from Bridgnorth joined a 20,434-strong crowd for the Aviva Premiership fixture against Exeter Chiefs at Welford Road before honing their skills with the professionals the following day.
Bridgnorth coach Julian Dwayne accompanied the group and said: "We've all had a really good time just soaking up the atmosphere at Welford Road and everyone really enjoyed themselves."
