Crucial run will test Stratford RFC's mettle, says skipper Dan Kirby

“THESE are the kind of games you want to be involved in.” Those are the words of skipper Dan Kirby ahead of Stratford’s crucial block of fixtures before the festive break.

The Black and Whites, who have won their last five Midlands One West fixtures – and seven of their last eight – are one of six teams that are well in the mix for promotion this season, with seven points separating leaders Ludlow and sixth-placed Hereford.

The Pearcecroft men currently sit fifth in the table and their next block of fixtures in the run-up to Christmas begins with a trip to Hereford on Saturday. Stratford are then at home to third-placed Malvern on 3rd December followed by trips to Old Halesonians (2nd) and Worcester (7th) on 10th and 17th December respectively.