Glenn Delaney column

By Glenn Delaney
Nottingham director of rugby

The aim for the rest of the league campaign is to finish in the top four in the division

For a long time during the game against the Cornish Pirates it looked like 2009 was going to begin with a defeat but the players dug deep, as only they know how, and to my relief we kicked off the new year with a victory.

It was not a vintage performance but we have proven time and time again that if we are within touching distance going into the last 10 minutes, then we have the mental toughness to pull through.

Obviously, I would prefer that we did not leave it until late in the game but it is testament to the hard work that Jo Brun [strength and conditioning coach] has put in with the players.

The team have been training from the start of June to prepare themselves for the long National Division One season and last-minute victories, when it looks like we are out of the game, are proof that we are on the right track.

Cup ambitions

The win has moved us back into the top three of National One and the aim for the rest of the league campaign is to finish in the top four, which could potentially bring qualification to the Anglo-Welsh Cup next season, should the proposals be finalised.

We were the surprise package in the 2007/8 season and to finish joint second in the league and semi-finalists in the National Trophy was a tremendous achievement but it is vital that we back it up this season and so far we are on target to do just that.

We have solidified our growth in the league and improved our consistency which in turn has established Nottingham Rugby as one of the top teams in National One.

The EDF Energy Trophy begins this weekend as we enter at the fourth round with a home tie against Blaydon.

Our philosophy with the cup is that we must do whatever it takes to get back in the hat for the draw on Monday and that will be the case at Meadow Lane on Saturday afternoon.

We were one step away from a dream Twickenham final last year and we would love to go further this season and give the supporters, who have been amazing during some tough times for the club, a fantastic day out.