THE waiting is almost over for Knutsford Rugby Club.

Grassroots rugby has been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But now, as the club president Tony Evans explains, matches will return in the new year and training is being stepped up in readiness.

“It’s the news we have all been waiting for, rugby at Knutsford RFC returns,” said Tony.

“Following the Government’s announcement that outdoor team sport can resume from December 2 the Rugby Football Union has confirmed that 15-a-side contact rugby can return at grassroots level, subject to some adaptations.”

These adaptation include no scrums, which will be replaced by free kicks, or mauls and limited numbers in lineouts.

Friendly matches are now allowed and the club’s officials await further details as to when competitive games can be played.

“With so little time before Christmas Knutsford have decided that the senior squad will not arrange any friendlies before the new year and will instead use the time to become match ready after such a long lay-off,” said Tony.

“All members of the squad are eager to resume competitive rugby and will take the time available to play inter-squad games, including a modified rules squad match on Saturday the 19th.”

It has been tough for rugby players to be missing out on their weekly fix during the periods when the likes of grassroots football has been up and running again.

“We would like to thank all club members, both playing and non playing for their loyal support since the cancellation of competitive rugby back in March,” said Tony.

“Here’s hoping for a better year in 2021!”