Round 15: Leicester Lions v Albion

UPDATE - Match postponed due to freezing conditions

Albion continue their campaign in 2025 with a long trip to take on Leicester Lions at Westleigh Park.

The Lions are currently placed 12th in the league having only one three of their fixtures to date, but have secured 4 LBPs and 5 TBPs so shouldn't be taken lightly. The reverse fixture back in September saw them recover from a 27-5 scoreline 15 minutes into the second half to end the game 27-22 which included 2 tries with the handicap of only having 14 on the field. The corresponding fixture last season also saw them come out 19-12 victors with Albion salvaging a point in the last moments of the game.

To date, the Lions have scored less than 3 tries per game and appear to be most threatening from the centre and wing positions. Their scoring has tended to improve in the second half. Meanwhile, Albion have scored a little over 3.5.

In terms of defence the Lions have let in 60 tries during this campaign, although they appear to have tightened up the their defence over the last 4 fixtures. They also appear to defend better in the final quarter, although this could be put down to the opposition easing up towards the end of their games. Their main weakness appears to be in ruck/maul situations but can be exploited through the back line.

Player to watch Jake Sterland, frequently starting on the left wing, he is the Lions top try scorer

Referee / cards The Referee will be Jamie Parr, who has officiated most weekends in Nat 1 this season. Quite restrained with cards, about one every other game, but did award Albion's first of the season to Jake Bond. Whilst Albion have only accrued 3 cards to date, the Lions have conceded nine cards which is still on the lower end of the scale. 

Weather - Near freezing but little wind. Whilst no rain forecast the game may start in misty becoming more foggy through the afternoon.

Prediction: A close win for Albion. 

Other games of note: 

Rosslyn Park v Blackheath - Occupying 4th and 5th place respectively both sit just above Albion, so a win for Albion should see further progress up the Albion - the exception will be in the event of a draw.

Bishop's Stortford v Birmingham Moseley - Just below Albion in 8th and 7th, although a 6 point gap to Mose. However, Birmingham Moseley have 2 games in hand so a win for BS would suit Albion.