Craig Newby, the coach of Cambridge Rugby Club, reflects on a challenging season, where the team's struggles culminated in a disappointing relegation from the Championship. Despite the lack of wins, Newby expresses resilience and optimism, emphasizing the unwavering support from fans, the board, and players. He acknowledges the club's history of resilience and believes that the team can recover and bounce back.
Newby highlights the team's struggles, noting that the only game they avoided defeat in was a draw at Doncaster in January. The relegation was confirmed with a 31-7 loss to Ealing on April 15th. He acknowledges the difficulty of motivating players in the final games, given the team's earlier relegation. However, he praises the collective spirit and determination of the players.
In his assessment of the season, Newby admits that the team's performance fell short, stating, 'We just haven't been good enough from number one through to 23.' He acknowledges the challenge of transitioning to National One, recognizing the presence of strong teams with similar aspirations. Yet, he remains hopeful, emphasizing the importance of consolidation and improvement.
Looking back on the final Championship game, Newby describes it as a 'festival game' with both teams playing without league pressure. Despite a strong start, the team faced a late surge from their opponents, leading to a disappointing finish. He reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of the season, acknowledging the disappointment of the final results.
Newby's commentary underscores the importance of resilience and unity in sports. He suggests that the team's struggles serve as a learning curve, providing valuable lessons for future success. Despite the setback, he remains confident in the club's ability to rise again, drawing strength from past challenges and the unwavering support of the community.
