This Friday night, all eyes will be on Old Bath Road as Richmond 1st XV and Reading Rams face off in a titanic top-of-the-table clash. Both teams sit level on points at the summit of National League 1, with only points difference separating them. Richmond’s recent rise to the top comes after Rams stumbled against Rotherham Titans last weekend, making Richmond the league’s only unbeaten side heading into Round 12.

With two of the league’s standout teams colliding, this promises to be a contest worthy of the occasion. Kick-off is at 7:45 pm, and the stakes are sky-high.

Players to Watch

Richmond: Sam Pim
Sam Pim led the way against Sedgley Park with dominant tackles and carries, setting the tone in a physical battle. His work rate and ability to control the gain line will be crucial against a powerful Rams pack.

Reading Rams: Max Hayman
Rams captain and hooker Max Hayman is the league’s top try-scorer with 12 tries. His influence in the set piece and open play makes him the focal point of a pack that thrives on physicality.

The set piece will be a key battleground, with both sides boasting formidable packs and influential leaders in Pim and Hayman.

This game is more than a top-of-the-table clash—it’s a defining moment in the season. We fight to keep our unbeaten streak alive, while Rams aim to protect their fortress and reclaim their place at the summit.

Kick-off is at 7:45 pm, with a supporters’ coach available—tickets can be purchased [HERE]. Let’s make Reading feel like home and turn up the volume for the boys. For those unable to attend, follow the action live on Next Gen XV’s YouTube or our social media channels.

Richmond 1st XV vs. Reading Rams – Friday night rugby at its best.

Last time we met:

Watch highlights on our last match-up in April [HERE]

Top try scorers: Chidera Obonna and Alex Schwarz – 5 tries
Top point scorer: Callum Grieve – 115 points
Dominant tackles (last game): Sam Pim and Sam Dardis
Most carries (last game): Sam Pim
Points per game average: 34 points
Position in League: 1st

First XV (1-15)

1. Theo Bevacqua - Sponsored by Andy/Lynda Quigley
2. Callum Torpey - Sponsored by Molloy/Barnes/McGee
3. Jimmy Lichfield - Sponsored by Robert Vallings
4. Jake Monson (VC) - Sponsored by Ollie Quigley
5. George Nugent - Sponsored by Ian Hart
6. Ethan Benson - Sponsored by Aaron Adams
7. Toby Saysell - Sponsored by Brad Day
8. Sam Pim - Sponsored by Molloy/Barnes/McGee
9. Luc Jones (C) - Sponsored by Tony Dorman
10. Lewis Dennett - Sponsored by Mermaid Gin
11. Chidera Obonna - Sponsored by John Heaton
12. Sam Dardis - Sponsored by Andy Cuthbert
13. James Langston - Sponsored by Patrick Way
14. Alex O’Meara - Sponsored by Tony Dorman
15. Callum Grieve - Sponsored by Willie Munday

Replacements

16. Will Goffey - Sponsored by Chris Mills
17. Luke Spring - Sponsored by Steve Hardwick
18. Lucas Schmid - Sponsored by Nick Preston
19. Miles Wakeling - Sponsored by Colebrook Offshore
20. Alex Schwarz - Sponsored by Simon Barber