HARLOW Rugby Club face a massive game and test when they visit third-placed Norwich in London division three north east this Saturday.
The second-placed Rams lead Norwich by seven points after the latter won 22-16 at Sudbury five days ago.
A win will play a big part in getting Harlow nearer to securing a play-off spot (second place).
Rams coach Lee Harron said: “It’s a very big game. If we win this week it creates some distance from us and Norwich.
“We take one game at a time, but if we beat Norwich it puts in a good strong position. It will be an exceptionally tough game we must be ready for.”
Harron added: “The Holt game [at home on February 4] does not have meaning until we have played Norwich.”
However, Harlow’s coach said other results will play their part, not least those games involving Stowmarket.
Stowmarket’s own claims have been affected by a five-point deduction for fielding an unregistered Colts player but they can help Harlow by beating teams around them.
“You have to remember that Stowmarket [in fourth] have to play Norwich, and Holt have to play Stowmarket,” he said.
Harron said that number eight Kain Claridge could be involved after coming back from a shoulder injury. He also expects hooker Martin Mallia to be fit.
“He [Mallia] came off more as a precaution against Newmarket,” said Harron.
“Kain will be back in the frame for selection. Danny Smith [fly-half] is back from university for two weeks and he will give us another option.”
However, there is a doubt about lock Darren Hawkins after he sustained a head injury against Newmarket 12 days ago.
