HEAD COACH Danny Brown is confident Darlington Mowden Park will hit the ground running when they kick off the new National One season with a trip to Cinderford tomorrow, writes Laura Wilson.

Having finished their maiden campaign in National One in a hugely creditable ninth position, Mowden will head into the new season determined to cement their reputation as one of the most upwardly-mobile clubs in the country.

Their move to The Northern Echo Arena has been a huge success, and later this autumn, they will welcome world champions New Zealand as part of the All Blacks’ defence of their Rugby World Cup crown.

For now, though, the focus is on maintaining standards on the field, and after presiding over friendly wins against Hawick and Old Albanians, Brown is looking forward to getting back into things for real this weekend.

“We decided to reduce the amount of pre-season games, so it’s been a case of so far, so good,” he said. “We have new boys in, and a new-look team. Our boys are looking sharp, and I can already see that there will be scraps between individuals to keep their place.”

Mowden have looked overseas for their summer signings, with Italy A international back row Luca Petillo and former Argentinian sevens scrum-half Bruno Bravo both moving to the Arena.

“They are enjoying playing here,” said Brown. “We focus on integration, and those two have settled in well. We knew they were quality players before they arrived, but like the others, they will still have to work hard to keep their position.”

Another summer boost was the successful retention of brothers Grant and Max Connon. Fly-half Grant, who earned his team more than 100 points last season, has signed a two-year deal, while scrum-half Max has committed to another 12 months as he prepares to enter his fifth season as a Mowden player.

“Experienced players are the backbone to our team as they know how we train, our ethos and our work ethic,” said Brown. “Grant and Max will progress with the club, and in time, we won’t be surprised if they eventually move on. Whatever happens, we won’t hold them back.

“As a team, we want to better the previous year, which we believe is achievable. Obviously, we want to target promotion, but we won’t get too carried away too soon. We will evaluate our progress against at Christmas, and take it from there.”

Mowden’s other main focus is the visit of the All Blacks, who will use the Arena to help prepare for their Rugby World Cup pool game with Tonga at St James’ Park in Newcastle on October 9.

The details of the All Blacks’ visit to the North-East are still to be revealed, but it is hoped their itinerary will include an open training session in Darlington.

“It is hugely exciting, and an honour for the club and the town,” said Brown. “We didn’t think it would be an option.

“This event will help our players as they can integrate with a different team and be surrounded by the world’s best. We will allow them to do as they please, and out base will give them the best opportunity to succeed.”