Duffey keen to sign off in style

Duffey has been an ever-present for Nottingham since 2005

Joe Duffey is desperate to sign off his Nottingham career in style - by leading them to their first Twickenham final.

The 26-year-old hooker is joining Leicester at the end of the season and Nottingham face Leeds Carnegie in their National Trophy semi-final on Sunday.

"I would love to pay the fans back by winning and taking all of Nottingham to Twickenham on 18 April," said Duffey.

"Sunday is a huge game, but I know with the support of our crowd at 'Fortress' Meadow Lane we can reach the final."

Duffey joined Nottingham from Upper Hut, New Zealand, in 2003 and made an instant impact, helping secure promotion to National Division One in his first year.

He has since been an integral part of the forward pack that has propelled the Green and Whites to within touching distance of the first Twickenham final in their 132-year history.

We are really excited about Sunday, it's a huge day for the players

Nottingham's Nic Rouse

"Leeds are top of the table because they are a very good side and full of internationals, but we are playing well and full of confidence," said Duffey.

"Nottingham Rugby has been like a family to me during the last seven years and we have had some amazing times.

"To get Twickenham and lift the trophy would be the icing on the cake."

Meanwhile, giant second row Nic Rouse is aiming to continue his run of scoring a try in every round of the competition so far.

"My main goal this Sunday is to make sure we do everything we can to reach the final and if I get over the try line to help us get to Twickenham then I will be even happier," said Rouse.

"We are really excited about Sunday; it is our chance to win some silverware and a huge day for the players in front of a massive crowd."

Tickets are still available for the semi-final, with kick-off at Meadow Lane at 1500 GMT.