Medical factors added to Moseley backlog appeal

Moseley’s club doctor fears the fixture list imposed on the Billesley Common outfit not only jeopardises their chances of beating relegation but also poses a threat to player welfare. Dr Peter Grime, a consultant plastic surgeon at the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, says the prospect of playing six matches in three weeks would place too much physical and mental strain on a

part-time squad.

And Dr Grime estimates that the absence of adequate recovery time and the pressure of playing midweek games would reduce performances by between five and ten per cent over the time frame – a shortfall that could cost Moseley their place in next season’s Championship.

But more pressingly he is concerned about the short-term dangers faced by what is a small first-team squad following last week’s ruling by First Division Rugby Ltd that Mose will have to reduce their four-game fixture back-log by playing twice a week.

As things stand Ian Smith’s men face league leaders Leeds on April 4, London Welsh on April 8, Bedford three days later, Otley on April 15 and Plymouth the following Saturday. They end their campaign on April 25 at Manchester.

Grime thinks this is unacceptable and his evidence will form part of the club’s case when they appeal to the Rugby Football Union a fortnight today. “I believe the FDR proposal would pose a significant risk to player health and welfare and as a doctor it is my recommendation that increase is not acceptable,” Dr Grime said.

“There is little doubt that overplaying is a clinical governance issue and an essential part of any risk management strategy. There is overwhelming evidence that performance decreases as the frequency of matches increases.

Click here for on this story.