RFU chief says achieving promotion is tough

Owen became president of the RFU in July 2009

The president of the Rugby Football Union, John Owen, has said the top clubs in the South West face a tough task in pushing for the Premiership.

Exeter Chiefs, Cornish Pirates and Plymouth Albion will all be aiming to get promoted out of the Championship this season.

But Owen told BBC Radio Cornwall: "It's hard work to get there [Guinness Premiership], it's very difficult.

"The financial positions are difficult but they're all doing extremely well."

Exeter Chiefs are currently in the most promising position of the three South West sides in the Championship, sitting second in the table behind leaders Bristol.

"Exeter are a great club," said Owen. "I've been to the club, I've been to the ground and met them.

"But it is a major challenge and to stay there once they're there is also a major challenge. They have to be well run, professionally run and know exactly what they're doing. I really wish them all the very best."

The league's top eight clubs will enter into a promotion play-off competition at the end of the regular Championship season in March, with the eventual winners gaining a spot in the Premiership.

Both the Chiefs and Cornish Pirates are already assured of their spot in the top eight, whilst Plymouth Albion need to beat Doncaster in their final game of the season to make sure of their place.