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Page last updated at 14:40 GMT, Wednesday, 15 April 2009 15:40 UK

Moseley can cause upset - Smith

Moseley rugby club
Moseley are back at Twickenham for the first time since 1982

Moseley's first team coach Ian Smith is confident his squad will rise to the challenge of facing Leeds Carnegie in the EDF Energy National Trophy Final.

The sides meet at Twickenham on Saturday and Smith is confident his side can cause an upset.

Twelfth-placed Moseley pushed Leeds to the wire a fortnight ago, eventually slipping to a 31-26 defeat.

"Pressure is a wonderful thing, it can do strange things to people," Smith told BBC WM.

"We've got to make sure we handle that pressure and relax," he added.

Leeds secured the National One title with a 57-14 victory against Newbury on Saturday.

We can try to enjoy the day, though perhaps both eyes will be on the league game next week

Moseley coach Ian Smith is prioritising league survival

But former Scotland flanker Smith is well aware that survival in National One is much more of a priority for the club than their first big final for 27 years.

"The boys know exactly where the Twickenham game stands in our thoughts," he noted.

"We can try to enjoy the day, though one eye, half an eye, or perhaps even both eyes will be on the league game next week."

Smith has hinted that he may make some unexpected choices in the starting line-up, with a view to make sure Moseley have the best chance of maintaining their league status.

"It might be a harsh call, but that's what we've got to do. It might be people missing out who perhaps should be normally starting," said Smith.



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see also
Beaten Moseley stay in drop zone
14 Apr 09 |  Rugby Union
Smith happy with Trophy rehearsal
06 Apr 09 |  Rugby Union
Moseley win fixture delay appeal
01 Apr 09 |  Rugby Union


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