Cambuslang Rugby Club boss hopes for home comforts against derby rivals East Kilbride

Cambuslang Rugby Club head coach Gavin Blackburn is looking for some home comforts as his team prepares to kick off the new rugby season at Coats Park on Saturday.

And what an opener they have in store with a derby against old rivals East Kilbride being their first game back in West League 1.

Cambuslang return to the top division in the West after winning promotion last season and a key component of that success was their 100 per cent record at home.

“One thing is for sure, there will be no problem motivating the boys for this one,” said Gavin. “We want to be competitive throughout the season, but to be competitive you have got to win your home games.

“That is especially important when it’s the first game of the season and everybody wants to get off to a good start.

“We know it won’t be easy as East Kilbride are a good, strong side. But the fact that we are at home – and have the added motivation of a local derby – allows us to be confident that we can achieve the right result.”

The coach was reasonably happy with the way the build-up to the new season has gone.

The performances improved in each of the three matches – against Forrester, Hamilton and Cartha – with lessons being taken on board by the players.

As often happens at this time of year, Cambuslang will be without a couple of players for the derby, but the coach is hopeful of getting the campaign off to a winning start.

Looking ahead to the season, Gavin said: “We’re optimistic that we can acquit ourselves well. We have a good group of hard-working players. If we perform as we can, we shouldn’t worry about any game – especially at home.”

Kick-off on Saturday at Coats Park is 3pm.

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