Rugby: North Midlands One South

KINGS Norton coach Ian Jackson says he is looking forward to an entertaining derby clash against near neighbours Woodrush on Saturday.

The Kings coach took an ill-concealed swipe at the former regime at Woodrush claiming 'they play rugby nowadays rather than fighting'.

"It always used to be a fruity fixture," said Jackson in the build-up to a keenly-anticipated derby at Woodrush (ko 3pm).

"Kings Norton has always had a bit of history with Woodrush but since Matt Elwell started coaching Woodrush that has changed.

"They want to play rugby these days so you can look forward to a good game rather than just brawling."

Jackson is set to be without unavailable winger Pete Noonan and centre Jamie Clayton on Saturday as his plans are again disrupted in a season which has seen Kings use five fly-halves already.

The club's Powergen Junior Vase hopes took a dive in Round Two at the weekend with a 29-7 home defeat to Sleaford.

Jamie Clayton crossed and converted his own try as the hosts briefly levelled in the first half.

But Jackson was this week turning his thoughts to the next game.

"It's a very important game for us," he added.

"The league this season is so small we only have 14 games of rugby this season so if you are going to go for a promotion challenge you can't afford to lose many games.

"After finishing third for the last three years we have to be positive and aim to go up this season.

"But I'm not underestimating Woodrush."