Elthamians secured 29 points out of a possible 30 in the home straight, to come up hard on the rails and snatch second spot in National Two South. Their ability to cope with the pressure and treat each game as a cup final proved decisive in the final reckoning.

“The Sale game is no different to our last six league games,” Howard said. “If we hadn’t won them with a bonus point we wouldn’t be in this position. So the players have had that pressure on them the whole time - and they have coped with it exceptionally well.

“They know from experience now what is required in these high stakes games which could be absolutely crucial in a match of this importance on Saturday.

“As I've said a few times in the past, we had put together 20-minute patches of outstanding play in the early parts of the season but not put an entire 80-minute performance together. We did that in the last six games and the rugby was unbelievable at times.

“We have not put any pressure on the players - the message has constantly been if we play as well as we can, then we probably have a good chance of winning. I think that applies to this Saturday as well.”

Howard and the OEs management team have not deviated from the preparation and routine that has served them so well this season in the build-up to what is the biggest game in the club’s history.

“We have a set way of doing things,” Howard said, “and it’s worked well for us so far – we had the best record away from home in Nat 2 South. The players don't want or need for anything and actually we are under less pressure, as the home team are expected to win.

“Sale play a direct brand of rugby with strong and dangerous ball carriers. We must stop their ball carriers at source so they don't get momentum. We have to play the same way as we have during the last six weeks with pace, tempo and precision.

"It will still be very difficult but the boys have risen to the occasion this year and will hopefully do it one more time this Saturday.”