Watford RFC are set to play local rivals Chess Valley this Saturday, the third time we have played this fixture in 105 days. The teams are 1 a piece for 2023 as it stands, with Chess Valley winning 24-17 at Radlett Road in a close, tough encounter in January. Watford returned the favour at the Croxley Guild just last month in another tight affair at Croxley Guild winning 13-23.
The game this Saturday, a semi final in the Papa Johns shield, offers the opportunity for Watford’s second piece of silverware this season after Captain Scott Menzies lifted the Presidents Trophy last month. Watford come off the back of 3 wins against relatively unknown opponents so far in the tournament; London Media, Metropolitan Police and Lordswood RFC. The last of which included a weekend getaway around the M25 to Aylesford Bulls RFC, where Lordswood hosted Watts. Despite falling down to 12 men just before half time, the boys in red stood firm and held on for victory 18 points to 12 thanks to tries from Martin Cunningham, Tom Franklin and Kingsly Nwefo.
Chess Valley have also faced unfamiliar teams with victories over Kings College, Cranleigh and an away BYE from Greenwich.
Both teams will be relishing the opportunity to play in the final which is due to be hosted at Saracens stadium, the Stonex, on Sunday 7th May at 11am.

Watford vs Chess Valley – Radlett Road, WD24 4LL. Saturday 29th May, 3pm KO.