“We need to be more clinical”: Fylde RFC joint-head coach’s message after their first two matches

Fylde RFC need to be more clinical and finish their chances – that’s the story of the new season so far, according to team boss Chris Briers.

The opening National Two North games of 2026/27 have seen Fylde follow a 17-7 victory at Billingham with a 31-12 derby defeat by Preston Grasshoppers in last Saturday’s first home fixture.

Joint-head coach Briers saw similarities between both matches, telling the Gazette: “We’re disappointed but we had lots of opportunities against Hoppers.

“We were slick and created really good chances but didn’t quite finish them off.

“That’s been the story of both games in that we’ve had more chances than we took, although we got the win at Billingham.

“We have attacked well at times but we need to be more clinical.”

It was Hoppers’ first win over Fylde since regaining National League status in 2022, though they did draw at the Woodlands last season.

Briers added: “The scoreline doesn’t reflect how close Saturday’s game was, though Preston did scramble and defend well to prevent us getting over the line.

“They scored a try from a penalty and we knew that if we gave them those opportunities, they would kick to the corner and drive.”

Fylde picked up more injuries in the game, having started the season without some senior players.

With captain Toby Harrison and vice-captain David Fairbrother not expected to feature until around November, Corey Bowker captained the side at Billingham - only to be ruled out of the derby by injury.

“We did pick up a couple of knocks and we’re waiting to find out the severity of those,” said Briers.

“We do feel we have added more depth to the squad in the last couple of seasons.

“Behind the tried and trusted players, we have others who can fill their shoes without a dip in quality.”

Those who have boosted the ranks include summer signing Theo Hulbert.

The prop marked his full debut on Saturday with a try and Briers added: “Theo has gone well and has impressed so far.

“He can play on either side of the scrum and it’s good to have people like him.

“We already have Corey injured and, over the course of the season, you’ll need plenty of players for those front-row positions.”

Like Hoppers, this Saturday’s hosts Hull Ionians (3pm) have won both games to date.

Their Brantingham Park home is fresh in the memory for Fylde, who lost there on the final day of last season.

Many of those players then returned with Lancashire in June for the second Roses clash in the County Championship.

Briers said: “We always expect a tough game at Ionians and it will be the same this time.

“If we play as we have so far but finish off more of our chances, we’ll be very competitive.”