Southport RFC Set for Plate Final at Doncaster After Strong Season

Southport RFC will close out a hugely positive 2024–25 season with a chance of silverware as they take on Coalville RFC in the Counties 2 North Plate Final (Papa John’s Men’s Community Cup) at Castle Park, Doncaster on Saturday 17 May (1:00 PM kick-off).

The First XV head to Doncaster full of confidence after a campaign that saw them finish 4th in the Counties 2 ADM Lancashire & Cheshire league, just five points off the top. The team remained unbeaten at home all season, turning Waterloo Road into a fortress. Notable wins included a 66–19 demolition of Oldham, a tight 16–15 victory over Warrington, and a superb 36–24 win against promotion-chasers Littleborough in March.

In the Plate competition, Southport progressed with a 46–29 victory over Sefton, a 30–15 win against Bolton, and a strong 29–12 semi-final result against Barnard Castle RUFC. Tries in the semi-final came from Lewis Fusco, Joe Parkinson, and two from Lewis Johnson, with Jake Mann adding three conversions and a penalty.

Coalville RFC, from Leicestershire, finished 3rd in Counties 2 Midlands West (East) and reached the final after a 31–17 away win over St Ives (Midlands). They will provide a stern test.

The match forms part of the RFU’s Finals Day at Castle Park:
11:00 AM – Pershore v Wheatley Hills (Counties 3 & Below North Plate Final)
1:00 PM – Southport v Coalville (Counties 2 North Plate Final)
3:00 PM – Leamington v Peterlee and Horden (Counties 1 North Plate Final)
5:00 PM – Walsall v West Bridgford (Regional 2 North Plate Final)

Supporters’ Travel: The club has organised a coach for supporters, departing Southport RFC at 8:45 AM and returning by 7:00 PM. Prices are £20 for adults and £10 for children under 14.
To book your place or for further information, contact Enda Rylands on 07913 253872 or by email at endarylands74@gmail.com.

All supporters are encouraged to travel and help create a strong Southport presence on this special day.

This final is a fitting reward for the players, coaching staff, and volunteers who have driven the club forward this season. Whatever the result, the season has laid down a strong platform for further success in 2025–26.