CURRENTLY on a strong unbeaten run, Dorchester were due to face Supermarine from the Northern section of the Wadworth 6X Dorset & Wilts League in a Twin Counties Vase knockout competition on Saturday.

However, the Swindon outfit have withdrawn from the semi-final citing an injury crisis.

This puts Dorchester into the final for the first time in a number of years and they will face either Bridport or Oakmeadians for the chance to pick up some silverware.

With no other senior men’s games this weekend the squad have been a given a well-earned rest by coach Ben Parker.

However, at the same time, reminded to train hard and keep focused on the next big challenge which is Wimborne away the following weekend.

This game is crucial to both sides’ promotion aspirations and will no doubt be a hard-fought cagey affair.

Coach Parker said on hearing the news: “It’s disappointing that Supermarine have withdrawn as we were relishing the challenge but with the final scheduled for December 2 we now have a chance tick off one of our targets before the mid-point of the season.

“This does mean that we now have two solid weeks to prepare fully for the game against second-placed Wimborne in what will likely be a title deciding game.

"Whoever comes away from this with the win will feel they are in a very strong position to push on for the league title."

With all of this in mind, training has really stepped up a gear and the break in play has given Parker time to reflect on the season thus far.

He added: “It’s going to plan so far with a fantastic start and this is adding to the momentum of the club as a whole.

"It’s not just about first-team rugby but all three senior sides and the whole set up here at Coburg Road.

"Competition is getting tough for places and it is exciting as a coach to see players developing and improving week on week. "We have many who have come through our own youth system and we must all give back to this to keep the club moving forward.”

Youth section games this weekend at Coburg Road see the under-6s and under-12s entertaining Sherborne, the under-13s face Bournemouth and the Colts welcome Swan Minster at 2pm.

Meanwhile, Weymouth & Portland are without a game.