With the Consett climate in full force last weekend, all players were gifted a rugby free weekend. Although the match sharpness would have been welcome, this gives Consett an extra week on the training field to prepare for their away trip to Novocastrians RFC. Novos have struggled this season after a decent start, one that included a punishing 13-38 victory over Consett down on the 4G pitch back in September. Novos have been somewhat of a bogey team for Consett over the last few seasons, claiming 4 victories in the last 5 games. Consett will have to put this to the back of their minds and focus on the job at hand.

Consett 1st XV name just one change from the squad due to play Barnard Caste last weekend with Bradley Sotheran replacing Chris 'The Incredible Bulk' on the bench, due to Chris's poorly ear (say what?).