OLD Otliensians now know who stands between them and a place in the final of the RFU Junior Vase at Twickenham.

Staffordshire club Eccleshall defeated Lincolnshire's Bourne 27-13 to set up a last-four clash at Chaffers Field on Saturday, March 31.

Eccleshall currently top the Midlands Four West (North) League while Otliensians are second in Yorkshire Three.

With their away match against Knottingley postponed last Saturday due to the weather, Otliensians coach Kris Stafford travelled to watch Eccleshall win their tie.

“It was a useful trip. We’ve analysed their strengths and weaknesses in both attack and defence and this will shape our tactical preparations for the game,” said Stafford.

“They are an organised side with a big pack and some strong ball carriers in midfield.

“We will need to continue to defend how we have done all season and be strong in the set -piece to prevent them getting anything out of the game.”

Stafford is aware that his side face an important league game against Old Modernians on Saturday and cannot afford to take their eye off the ball.

He said: “Everyone wants to play in the semi-final, and that buzz has contributed to an increase in competition and everyone being available.

“We have strength in depth across the whole playing squad, and the coaching team have some very tough decisions ahead.

“At the moment I have no idea what the starting XV will look like, which I think is a positive as the lads still have time to prove themselves.

“Prop Tom Howard should be back involved in the squad after a couple of weeks off with illness, and we had a pleasant surprise last week with winger Connor Bateman returning to training after his recent injury.

“However, it will be up to the medical team to consider if he will be fit for the semi-final.”