MIKE SCHMID has made an emotional plea for support before Esher’s curtain-raiser against mighty Exeter on Saturday. Director of Rugby Schmid wants fans, sponsors and council to help the club retain its place as one of England’s elite 24 clubs.

Following on from their encouraging victory against Newport Gwent Dragons last week the Blues announce another strong line up to face Cambridge this Saturday. 

There were several excellent presentations made at the club’s recent successful AGM. According to comments on the Moseley Message Board and other feedback, the statistics causing most astonishment and applause were not the commendable year on year improvement in the Moseley 1st XV’s playing performance; nor was it the great achievement of doubling overall income in only four years; nor even the quadrupling of gate attendances since the dark days at the University.

With their first pre-season 'friendly' against Redruth behind them, the Cornish Pirates can be expected to step up a gear this week when on Saturday they face strong Italian 'Super 10' team Almaviva Capitolina at the Recreation Ground, Camborne (ko 5pm).