Thirds

Longton Rugby's Third team play against other local third and second teams (also some 1st teams) in the Staffordshire Merit League, and won Merit League B North in 2008/9.

On the back of a successful season last year, the Thirds saw a few of their regular players move up to play for the Seconds occasionally. This season they expect to lose a few more players to the Phoenix again, particularly with Gareth Edwards - last season's 3rd team Vice Captain taking the lead role with the 2nds during the forthcoming campaign. 

The Thirds' Captain for the 2009/10 season is Gary Humphreys, who comments "I feel that this year we will be trying to repeat what we did last year as we have some good young players coming through.  We've also got some old heads in the team to help the younger players with their development, enabling them to progress through the ranks.  Consequently, I expect that some players will move up to the 2nds on occasions, which will be good as it will give them some experience of the different level of commitment needed to perform at a higher level".

Gary continues, "We will  be in the same league as last year but without Ashbourne as the league restructure has placed them in a different division.  But we have still got some mouthwatering ties with Newcastle, Leek, Linley, Trentham, Cannock and Lichfield Vets to look forward to."

One of the features of the Thirds is that they always try to play with a smile on their faces and have a laugh, whether they win, lose or draw.  Gary confirms that "Our ethos will always be that we will try our best to enjoy our rugby at all times, whatever the score and whoever we play."

If you are interested in playing for the Thirds - and enjoy your rugby but don't take it too seriously - why not come down to training at Trentham Fields on Tuesday and Thursday at 7.00 p.m. or turn up on a match day with boots and kit?

Everyone is welcome to come and have a go at playing rugby with the Thirds. You can get in touch using our Contact Us page or call Longton Rugby on 01782 594016 if you would like to speak to someone for further details.