Captain’s profile: Andrew Miles

Selborne captain Andrew Miles believes victory over Grey High on Thursday will erase much of the disappointment of a difficult season.

Thursday’s hosts have lost nine of their 16 matches this year and registered just a single win over a top twenty team when they trumped Framesby.

As a result, they head into Thursday’s match as underdogs despite having won the last three outings between the schools.

Miles, who was one of five Selborne players who played Craven Week this year, believes they have improved significantly and have gained momentum in recent weeks.

“We’ve been in quite good form in our last three games. It’s important that we stick to our game plan because everything is working,” he said.

On a personal level, Miles said playing Craven Week rugby for Border was a great opportunity to test himself against the best players in the country.

“It was eye-opening to see the talent out there compared to East London and Border schools. I really enjoyed it,” said Miles.

Miles, a fast fetcher flank with a good understanding when to commit to possible turnovers and when to stand off, is one of several matrics in the side.

He said a clash of this magnitude is equally enticing to the matrics and the younger players in the team, who have an opportunity to right the wrongs of a long season at home.

“I keep reminding the matrics that it’s our last game and the Grade 11s that they have everything to play for for next year and to enjoy it.

“For us matrics in the side playing our last game, the fact that it’s at home makes it extra special,” he said.