Round 1: Rosslyn Park v Plymouth Albion
By Dark Prophet
September 3 2026
It's a tough start for Albion as they face Rosslyn Park for the opening fixture at the Priory Lane ground.
Rosslyn Park finished 4th last season, 9 points behind Albion ,winning 17 games and securing losing bonus points in 4 other games. In Addition, Park scored try bonus points in all but 3 games.
Against Albion they won comfortably 29-14 at Priory lane early on last season, but the reverse fixture Albion dominated winning 41-10. This defeated coincided with a mid-season slump of form for Park.
Park have been busy over the summer recruiting a lot of players (about 25) including many with Champ experience as well as some emerging talent including 4 from their own development squad. They have retained much of their 'go to' squad from last season. Notably, two thirds of the recruitment has been focussed on building the pack. Overall, this has given a roster of 59 players (possibly more!).
If last season is anything to go by, Park conceded a considerably more tries than Albion, particularly through the forwards, although, as mentioned previously, Park have recruited heavily in that area. The backs were the source of two thirds of their tries.
The Referee for the game is slated to be Owen Taylor. Mr Taylor officiated for 4 National 1 games last season issuing 5 cards in total. One of these games did involve Albion (Away at Mose) which Albion won 20-27, and avoided receiving the card that was shown.
Player to watch: Whoever is playing hooker. It would not be a surprise if Park do a 'Blackheath' this season.
The weather will be dry with sunny intervals and barely a hint of wind - Temperature at 26°C should be 'comfortable'.
Prediction: A strong Park side will dominate the scrum, and a proven threat provided by the backs may be too much for Albion to overcome at this stage of the season. A convincing win for Park predicted.
Leeds v Camborne: Camborne (Albion's next opponents) start with their furthest away trip. Leeds finished 9th last season - close to the relegation zones. This should give a good indication of the Cherry and Whites' fortitude for the season.