FOSROC Super Series Championship– Ones to Watch
Ahead of the 2023 FOSROC Super Series Championship beginning this weekend, we asked each Head Coach to nominate one player from their squad who is ‘One to Watch’ this year's competition.
Ayrshire Bulls
Head Coach: Pat MacArthur
One to watch: Brad Rodrick-Evans
Pat said: “Brad arrived at the end of last season and has added a different dynamic to our ten-position helping us secure the Sprint Series win.
“He is a physical and smart standoff that does not shy away from contact and has a good boot. I am hoping he kicks in from where he left off last season.”
Boroughmuir Bears
Head Coach: Graham Shiel
One to watch: Mason Cullen
Graham said “Mason joined Boroughmuir Bears from Premiership Club Jed Forest where he was very effective and has an ability to find his way to the try line. Mason settled in well at Meggetland during the Sprint and the aim is for more progress through the Championship.
“Mason is an exciting and threatening runner with ball in hand whilst also being a brave defender when he does not have the ball.”
FOSROC Future XV
Head Coach: Scott Lawson
One to watch: Liam McConnell
Scott said “The Futures one to watch would be Liam McConnell, current Co-Captain of Scotland U20. Having played previously in Super Series Rugby as an with Boroughmuir Bears he has displayed the ability to perform at this level.
“A hard working, skilful back rower who is comfortable across all positions of the back row. A very good lineout operator who shows up well in the loose.
“He has shown excellent leadership skills while with the U20s and will undoubtably make a strong impression on the FOSOC Future XV squad on his return from the Junior World Trophy in Kenya.”
Heriot’s Rugby
Head Coach: Ben Cairns
One to watch: Grant Hughes
Ben said “Grant came into our squad just before the Sprint Series got underway and is a player I know well having coached him previously with Scotland U18 and Stirling Wolves.
“He is one the most competitive players I have worked with, he has a real drive to succeed and has really grown as a leader for us through the Sprint competition. He still has realistic pro ambitions, he would be more than capable of stepping up, and we are really looking forward to him showing everyone what he can do through the Championship Series.”
Southern Knights
Head coach: Alan Tait
One to watch: Johnny Rutherford
Alan said “Johnny is currently recovering from an injury but is due back in a few weeks .He starred coming off the bench for the U20 in the Six Nations this year and I think was sorely missed in Kenya for the Junior World Trophy.
“He’s very good in the contact area and that’s mainly down to his physique and strength. We will be working hard to develop his game further through his carrying and link plays with the backs but overall, he is a young man with a bright future ahead.”
Stirling Wolves
Head coach: Eddie Pollock
One to watch: Sam Rockley
Eddie said “Sam has joined us from the London Irish Academy. The Scotland U18 winger excelled throughout the recent home nations series.
“He is a powerful elusive runner who knows his way to the try line. Sam has spent the last few weeks training with both the Edinburgh squad as well as the Stirling Wolves in preparation for he upcoming Championship.”
Watsonians
General Manager: Alistair Hamilton
One to watch: Connor McAlpine
Alistair said “We are excited to see Connor return to action during the Championship. Connor has been on the long road to recovery following a serious knee injury sustained 12 months ago and is almost back in full training.
“A real live wire scrum half, Connor (19) is a product of George Watsons College and has represented Edinburgh and Scotland at U18 level.
“Whilst Connor will be delighted to be back playing, he will face stiff competition for the number 9 jersey from Murray Scott and Murdo McAndrew.”
Find out where to watch all FOSROC Super Series Sprint games HERE.