TAUNTON Titans have been building their preparation for the forthcoming 2018/19 season since the tail end of June and reports indicate that the players are now well prepared and honed for the big kick-off, writes Dick Macey.

Head coach Tony Yapp made it clear he was more than happy with the application of those attending the intensive training sessions and with only a few of last year’s crew moving on his squad has been bolstered by some very talented newcomers and the result is there is now serious competition for places.

The first real test for this year’s squad will be when they take on the Welsh Championship side, Cardiff Metropolitan University, in a friendly game at Hyde Park tonight (Friday).

The first National 2 South game will be against Worthing at Hyde Park on Saturday, September 1 (3pm), followed by a trip to The Duchy on the 8th to wrangle with old rivals, Redruth.

Then comes a home game on Friday, September 14 (7.30pm) against Clifton for what is always a keenly contested local derby game.

That game will be an opportunity to assess and review the beginning of the 30-game campaign – Tony Yapp’s comments are interesting in this context.

He believes the Titans have been building year on year and the big aim is to finish in one of the top two places.

He says the Taunton boys have been there or thereabouts for the last few seasons, finishing third and fourth, and although he acknowledges there are many good sides around it is time for the Titans to hand over the reins as the bridesmaid and look to become the bride.

He is confident that whatever the outcome he will have a competitive side to put out in the Taunton colours this time around.

As is usual, Tony keeps his cards close to his chest, not revealing too many secrets regarding players, but there is interest in some useful additions.

A notable name is that of Jarred Haylor, a Royal Navy player who plays in the back row, also Jordan Petherbridge who has been with Barnstaple and who, as a scrum-half and useful kicker of the sniping, yapping breed, will bring an interesting dimension to the half backs.

Sam Williams, an ‘in your face’ front row forward from North Petherton, will bring some steel to the pack.

The Titans are anxious to create a stir this season and the club looks forward to welcoming all rugby football supporters to Hyde Park to enjoy the atmosphere.

*** A MEMORIAL rugby match will be played between a Wyvern RFC XV and Chard RFC XV on Saturday, September 8 in memory of Mick Halligan, who passed away last year.

Halligan was a former Chard captain and committee member, as well as a founder member of the Wyvern Rugby Club.

The game, to be played at Chard RFC, will kick off at 5pm, after the Chard 1st XV match at 3pm.

All are welcome to attend.