Nicolle returns to his horror scene

GARETH NICOLLE tomorrow returns to the ground at which he broke his neck virtually a year ago to the day. Nicolle, who will not play again following his serious injury incurred in a scrum, is the designated GRUFC official who travels with the Guernsey first XV for the match against Tottonians.

It was in the corresponding London Three South-West game last year that he was stretchered off with his life in the balance.

A year on, Nicolle has made an amazing recovery and now plays an active role in the club, coaching the under-16s and as youth co-ordinator.

'I think it's very brave of him to go back there, which is sure to bring back some strong memories,' said skipper Andy Bailey.

'But it sums up the way Gareth dealt with his situation in the first place.

'If we need any extra motivation tomorrow we need only look to him on the sidelines.'

Nicolle admits it will be odd going back for 'the one year anniversary'.

'I'm a little apprehensive as it was a significant turning point in my life, but it will be good to get some closure.

'Well as much as you can when you can't play the sport that you love.'

Guernsey's win over Effingham and Leatherhead a fortnight ago and the previous draw against table-toppers Dorking, have lifted the green-and-whites into eighth spot in the 12-team section and five points clear of the relegation zone.

Tottonians will be a difficult game, though, being just one point behind the joint frontrunners, Dorking and Chobham.

'It's a big game for us this week,' said Bailey.

'We're playing the most fluid rugby we have played all season and we need to maintain the momentum we have generated if we are going to get ourselves up the league table.

'Barring the last 10 minutes of our last game our defence has been very strong in our last three games and away from home it's imperative we don't give away any soft points.

'Provided we get our basics right there is no reason we can't come away with a win.

'There are a few injury concerns, the main worries being Dave McGall and Jason Mroch.

'But our physio has indicated they will be fit.'