CLEE HILL Rugby Club captain Matt Bowen is confident the team will compete this season as they step up to Midlands Three West (North) for the first time.

Bowen's men travel to Newcastle (Staffs) this Saturday and will be hoping that they will carry on the momentum from that last season's historic promotion.

"We are all looking forward to it and are raring to go," said Bowen.

"We have had good numbers in training and they are looking strong and keen for the season to start.

"Apart from Bloxwich they are all new teams this season, so I don't know how we'll do but we are hoping for a mid-table finish.

"We would hope to finish near the top of the league, but we know it will be tough.

"But if we win our home games, then we'll be alright."

Clee Hill are hoping to sign Ludlow's Tom Rawlings in time for the match, while Richard Fletcher and Daniel Romeo return to boost the ranks.

"Richard Wozencroff is also not going to play as much this season, so Steve Adams will step in as number 10," said Bowen.

"We also have Robbie Jordan, who is a young lad and improving all the time.

"I will have to lead by example as captain and step up to the mark, as will the other lads.

"It will be a learning curve, but we are all looking forward to it."