By Coventry Rugby 
After a statement win over Hartpury RFC, Coventry Rugby full-back Tom Bacon believes the Blue-and-Whites are building something special – but insists there is plenty more to come as they prepare for a return to Ampthill RUFC this weekend.
Facing an in-form Hartpury side and sitting close together in the table, Coventry knew the challenge that awaited them. In difficult, windy conditions, they delivered a clinical performance to secure a full five league points – while denying Hartpury anything from the contest.
“As a group we knew how tough a game it was going to be,” Bacon reflected. “Hartpury were in good form leading up to the game. It was great to come away with five points in windy conditions and keep them to zero, especially because of how close we are in the table.”
Having now put together a strong run of games in the Champ, Bacon has embraced the intensity of England’s second tier. Even with previous experience in the competition, he admits this season has raised the bar.
“So far this year the Champ has been really competitive – it feels like anyone can beat anyone,” he said. “Having played in the Champ before, I thought I knew what to expect. But the level of speed, structure and physicality definitely exceeded my expectations.”
For Bacon, the heightened tempo and contact level have provided exactly the kind of challenge he relishes.
“It’s been a great challenge to throw myself into and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this year so far.”
After a spell playing in Australia, the Coventry full-back has also had to readjust to the nuances of the English game.
“The main differences since coming back from Aus would have to be the physicality of every team and the amount of kicking during each game,” he explained. “I’ve definitely had to catch a huge number of high balls this season compared to last.”
The tactical kicking battle and the speed at which sides organise defensively have stood out, while off the field Bacon faced a different test – joining a squad that had already bonded through pre-season.
“At first it was quite daunting knowing the squad would already be tight-knit and ready for the season. But all the boys and coaches made it incredibly easy and I felt very welcome straight away.”
Attention now turns to Ampthill away – and for Bacon, it is a fixture that carries added personal motivation. Having previously been on the other side of the contest, he knows exactly what Coventry are walking into at Dillingham Park.
“It’s always a nice feeling to get one over on an old team,” he admitted. “Having been on the other side of this fixture, I know how tough it is for teams to go to Dillingham Park and win.”
Building on the Hartpury victory is now the clear objective. Bacon believes the blueprint is already there – but refinement will be key.
“Our main focus will be to keep things pretty similar to last week while cutting out unforced errors and maintaining good discipline away from home,” he said. “We hope to put on a good display of attacking rugby for the travelling Cov fans and come away with the full five points.”
With confidence growing and standards rising, Coventry’s full-back is determined to ensure last week’s result – and the denial of any reward for a close rival – becomes another step in a season gathering serious momentum.
