Mroch joins crocks

INJURY problems are starting to worry Guernsey Rugby Club coach Rob Box. Last weekend's excellent 16-5 cup win over United Services Portsmouth has taken its toll on the Sarnian squad, with key players picking up knocks.

It has meant Box has had to delay naming a first-team squad for the important Hampshire League One fixture away to Eastleigh tomorrow as well as a second team to play in the JRA League top-of-the-table clash with Beeches on Sunday.

'We have got so many injuries we are starting to struggle,' said Box.

Front-row forward Jason Mroch was added to the injured list last weekend with a damaged shoulder.

Meanwhile James Regnard, who was on top form against US Portsmouth, will be rested. The big number eight has had long-term back problems and has been playing through the pain barrier.

Skipper Carl Johnson will be back though. He missed the last match to spend time with his new-born son.

The knocks picked up in the cup game are hard on Box whose men turned in a superb display.

'We came up against a pack that was just enormous, we are talking props who were 19-stone plus.

'But we dug in, battled hard and turned them over more than once,' said Box.

The coach gave glowing reviews for several of his players, one or two of whom are unsung heroes of the side.

'Hooker Paul Thomas did brilliantly to steal their put- in even though we were often being pushed back - he won a lot of ball for us - and in the second half his brother, Steve, came on and strengthened the pack.

'The second row of Dave McGall and Graham Hards were absolutely fantastic and Jim Regnard had an excellent game.

Guernsey's reward of a place in the last four was tempered slightly by the draw. They will travel to one of their Hampshire League One promotion rivals.

'We have drawn Trojans in the next round and that is not a good draw for us,' Box said.

Before then Box is wary of Eastleigh, although they were well beaten 41-0 at Foote's Lane.

'Last season we went away and lost to them. I cannot see them doing it again but it is getting so tight now in the league that every game is vital.