Bridlington RUFC travel to Old Otliensians this Saturday determined to return to winning ways following a difficult fortnight for the Blue and Golds.
Both Bridlington sides face away fixtures this weekend, with the first team travelling to Old Otliensians, while the Colts face a tough test on the road against league leaders Wheatley Hills.
Callam Sanderson’s side have suffered back-to-back defeats, beginning with a narrow 17-5 loss away to Keighley before falling to a 29-23 defeat against Old Crossleyans at Dukes Park. The latter result brought an end to Bridlington’s impressive unbeaten home record, which had stretched back to March 2025.
Old Otliensians, meanwhile, have enjoyed a strong start to the campaign and currently occupy third place in the league table. They edged past West Leeds in a thrilling 43-36 victory on the road before suffering a 16-3 defeat against league leaders Goole RUFC.
The two sides are certainly no strangers to one another, having met last season in Counties 2 Yorkshire. Their previous encounter at Chaffers Field proved to be a dramatic affair, with Old Otliensians snatching a 15-14 victory courtesy of a last-minute penalty kick.
Callam Sanderson shared his thoughts ahead of what promises to be a tough but exciting clash with Old Otliensians.
“I think there are mixed emotions in the camp now. Obviously, we’re disappointed to be coming off the back of two losses, but having watched the Old Crossleyans game back, there are a lot of positives to take from that.
“We’re full of excitement going into this weekend. We don’t need to say too much about the rivalry between ourselves and Old Otliensians. They pipped us to the championship last year and they’re a top side who are flying in Yorkshire One.
“They’re obviously doing well and they’re riding a wave now, so it’s going to be challenging to go away from home and get a result. But if we focus on ourselves and play our game, there’s no reason why we can’t go there on Saturday and get a result.”
By Alexander Fynn.
