Richmond 1st XV hit the road this Saturday for a tough test against Sale FC at Heywood Road. As the league leaders, Richmond will look to extend their unbeaten streak, while Sale aim to make a statement against the top side in National League 1.

Richmond come into this clash full of confidence after a dominant display against Esher last weekend. With a slightly different looking team, the cohesion was in full display into the second half firming Richmond’s place at the top of the table. Head Coach Rob Powell has switched things up again this week, refreshing the squad by making 7 changes to the starting XV ahead of a crucial match with vital points on the line.

Sale, on the other hand, have proven themselves a formidable force at home and will be eager to bounce back from recent setbacks with a strong showing.

Key Players to Watch

Richmond: Jake Monson
As Richmond head north with a much-changed side, the influence of vice-captain Jake Monson will be pivotal. A relentless presence at the breakdown and a powerful ball-carrier, Monson’s physicality and consistency set him apart. His leadership, composure, and tactical awareness make him a key figure in high-pressure moments, providing the stability the squad needs. With his ability to disrupt opposition play and drive momentum forward, Monson’s performance could be the difference in securing a crucial result and valuable league points.

Sale FC: Joshua Brown
Sale’s experienced hooker remains a crucial cog in their attack. With 9 tries under his belt, he remains Sales top try-scorer. Expect mauls near the Richmond tryline as he’ll be looking to score again this weekend.

Kick-off is at 2:30 pm, for those unable to attend, follow live updates on Sale Fc social media channels (@SaleFc on X)

Last time we met:
Watch highlights on our last match-up in October HERE.

Richmond by the numbers
Top try scorer: Chidera Obonna - 7 tries
Top point scorer: Callum Grieve - 138 points
Dominant tackles (last game): George Nugent
Most carries (last game): Sam Pim
Points per game average: 31 points
Position in League: 1st

First XV (1-15)
1. Theo Bevacqua - Sponsored by Andy/Lynda Quigley
2. Will Goffey - Sponsored by Chris Mills
3. Jimmy Lichfield - Sponsored by Robert Vallings
4. Cameron Gray - Sponsored by Richmond Diehards
5. George Nugent - Sponsored by Ian Hart
6. Jake Monson - Sponsored by Ollie Quigley
7. Henry Wills - Sponsored by Metatrak
8. Sam Pim - Sponsored by Molloy/Barnes/McGee
9. Alex Schwarz - Sponsored by Simon Barber
10. Lewis Dennett - Sponsored by Mermaid Gin
11. Josh Addams - Available to Sponsor
12. Callum Grieve - Sponsored by Willie Munday
13. Ellis Rudder - Available to Sponsor
14. Chidera Obonna - Sponsored by Mermaid Gin
15. Alex O’Meara - Sponsored by Tim Forrester

Replacements
16. Alex Post - Sponsored by Molloy/Barnes/McGee
17. Chris Freeman - Sponsored by Andrew Gordon
18. Miles Wakeling - Sponsored by Colebrook Offshore
19. Rhett Butler - Sponsored by William Lyth
20. Werner Nel - Sponsored by Tom Tootal