Essex Eels travel to Luton Vipers tomorrow looking to secure second place in the TotalRL.com Conference.

The two sides are currently level on points, trailing in the wake of runaway leaders Ipswich as they go for a play-off spot.

But the Basildon-based Eels, in their first season in the game, are working hard to add new recruits to the squad.

In addition to Aussie stars Blair Tonkin and Alan Glyde, they have attracted players from Colchester Barracks who have been involved with the British Army squad.

And they are also drawing in players from South Essex and Chelmsford, several of whom have played the game as students.

"We are not that far from putting out two teams in one day, which is a real sign that our club is developing," said coach Stuart Hogg.

To meet this interest the club will hold a junior registration day, followed by introductory coaching, on Saturday June 28 at 10am.

The session runs at Basildon Rugby Club before that day's match with Ipswich Rhinos. More details from Stuart Hogg on 07759 477824.

Published Friday, June 6, 2003

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