This Friday DMP Elizabethans 2s take on Sedgefield 2s in the 3rd Team County Cup under the Friday Night Lights. The game follows the culmination of the Elizabethans 1s league season, and is a chance for the 2s to progress in the County Cup competition.

Asked about the importance of the Elizabethans 2nd XV, Elizabethans Director of Rugby Stu Edwardson said: "As DMP Elizabethans DOR I had 2 main goals at the start of the season; to keep DMP Elizabethans 1st team in DN2, and to build a squad of players capable of getting two teams out on a regular basis."

"This I’m pleased to say has happened with DMP Elizabethans maintaining there DN2 status and the 2nd team playing regularly with a squad of 18 plus players."

"The whole point of the Elizabethans was to enable the talented colts coming through the system at DMP to be able them to play senior rugby at their hometown club. This has happened with more and more ex-colts and junior players pulling a shirt on for the Elizabethans this season. Moving forward as a club this is vital to to sustain senior rugby at our club and in general throughout the North East."

Speaking about the growing numbers in the squad, Stu added: "As some senior clubs in the area are struggling to put a 1st team out, we are building our player base to ensure we as a club we will continue to grow and flourish over the next 2 to 3 seasons."

"So please get down to the Arena on Friday night to support the 2nd team and the numerous ex colts that we be playing senior rugby for the Elizabethans."

"A special mention to Gareth Essex who has worked tirelessly as the 2nd team manager ensuring the 2nd team has as written above grown throughout the season."

Looking ahead to Friday's game, Essex added: "In one of our final games of the season we welcome local side Sedgefield Saxons in county cup action. It’s been a vastly improved season from the last one where the team has produced some big wins and performances!"

"After a good win in our Friday Night debut against neighbours Darlington we hope to carry this on this Friday! A chance for some of the 2s to shine under the lights, produce some fast paced rugby and entertain what we hope will be a decent crowd!"

Entry to Friday's 7.30pm kick off is free of charge for all spectators via the CrossBar, with the bar open from 6pm.