AFTER their heroic display at Kingsholm on Saturday, Henley firmly believe they can go even higher up rugby's ladder.

The Oxfordshire club tested themselves against Gloucester - one of England's best teams - and although they lost the Tetley's Bitter Cup tie 31-9, coach Nigel Dudding believes they can survive at a higher level.

"We're certainly capable of living in Premiership 2, I have no doubt about that,'' said Dudding, after a cup run that saw them shock Bedford and give Gloucester a real test.

"The key after promotion is to keep your squad togther. I've no doubt that most of this squad can play at a higher level.

"Having seen the pattern and style of play of the two Premiership 1 sides we have played, I am sure there are a number of clubs we can beat, given more time in preparation.

"It's all down to organisation. We've got the pace, we've got the skill, but the Premiership sides can spend all day on organising, while we've got just three or four hours a week." Gloucester coach Richard Hill was generous in his tribute to Henley. "They were very spirited and actually made very few mistakes. The handling was good and they were very adventurous at times and they also sneaked a couple of our line-outs which was a bit disturbing."

Hill singled out Henley open side flanker Mark Venner for particular praise. "The Henley No 7 was very good. When we were running the ball in midfield, setting the ball up well and clearing out well, he was coming in from behind and snatching good ball. I was very impressed with him."

Hill also paid tribute to the 1,000 Henley fans in the 4,000 crowd.

"There was a terrific roar when Henley took the field,' said Hill. "I've not heard many louder roars than that for Premiership teams.

"The players and supporters can be proud of themselves."

After the match, Henley came back out on to the pitch to applaud their fans.

Mat Maudsley said: "We certainly heard our fans out there, they were tremendous."

"This cup run's caught the imagination of the town," added Dudding.

More good news for Henley on Saturday, was that Manchester - their main rivals for the National League 1 title - lost to Otley, leaving the Oxon team as firm title favourites.

The key now is to get back down to earth from this high, and dig in for the rest of the season.

Who knows, in three years time they might be playing Gloucester in the league! Then, Henley will be known for more than rowing.

Story date: Wednesday 03 February

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