Sam Bowers, Reading Women's Head Coach, talks about the lead up to their home derby against Abbey.

Derby Day: Kites ready for Reading Abbey

On Sunday the Reading Kites host Reading Abbey at Holme Park in the biggest game of their season so far. We caught up with coach Sam Bowers ahead of the derby.

Sunday 11 October, kick-off 2.30pm, Holme Park

"There's a lot of excitement," says Sam. "The whole team have built up to it."

There are new faces in the Kites squad this season, and they are learning fast what this fixture means. "We've got new players that don't know the background between the two clubs," Sam explains. "The people that have been here a long time are getting everyone else excited for it."

The build-up has been lively, with social media going back and forth between the two clubs all week and the WhatsApp groups busy too. "It's a really good environment. It's tribal," says Sam. The respect runs just as deep. "For 80 minutes we're trying to beat each other. Then afterwards we'll all be in the bar with a drink and some food. That's the nature of our sport."

Underdogs, and happy with it

Abbey arrive having come down from the league above, they've made a good start to the season, and they beat the Kites in the cup last year. Sam is happy to embrace all of it.

"I've said to them all week, on paper we are the underdogs, and that's a great place to be," he says. "Both squads are a bit different now. We are definitely in a better place, and mentally we are very much up for a big challenge. We know that if we perform well, the result will take care of itself."

He has seen this mood before. "The preparation and the attitude from all the girls have been exactly the same as the week of our big win at the end of last season, which is a really positive thing."

One club behind them

Support has been building around Holme Park all week. "The support's been great," says Sam. "All sorts of people have messaged to say they're coming down on Sunday and can't wait to watch. This game shows the Kites are very much a part of Reading Rugby Club, as much as any team is."

Abbey will bring a strong following of their own, and with two local clubs going head to head, Sam expects plenty of emotion and a few nerves. "It's a derby. Both sides are going to put it out there for 80 minutes. It's going to be a good game to watch, and good for everybody."

Whatever happens on Sunday, there's a second chapter to come when the sides meet again in January.

Come and get behind the Kites. Sunday 11 October, kick-off 2.30pm at Holme Park. Bring your voice, and stay for a drink afterwards.