INJURIES are plaguing Cinderford RFC's preparations for the new season.
With further trial games planned for this week and Saturday, rugby administrator Dennis Hargreaves is worried his squad will be decimated before a kick or a pass has been made in cup or league.
"It's all or nothing. In last Saturday's game against Blackwood we lost both centres and the Welsh club were quick to expose it. We played well in phases but eventually went down 61-15 as they realised we were short in midfield," said Hargreaves.
He is looking positively on the hidings the club has received in the trials against Redruth and Blackwood.
"They will give the players a clear indication of what standard they have to achieve if they are to win the league. People are saying it will be comfortable for us but there are some good sides in there anxious to go up a grade and play National League rugby.
"Reading and Barnstaple have recruited well and Bridgwater were also a good side last season. It is not going to be easy," said Hargreaves.
Reading provide Cinderford with their first league opposition at Dockham Road on September 14 but first they have to overcome a Powergen Cup hurdle.
"We have to travel to either Banbury or Penryn. The league is obviously the most important target but the cup game will be up an opportunity to put things together," said Hargreaves.
The injury toll to date involves most of the back line.
Full back Mike Hart is out with a knee injury, scrum-half Lee O'Neill has a groin strain, and centres Stuart Chant and Alex Bennett have pulled hamstrings.
They will all miss Thursday's trial at Matson and Saturday's home game against Gordon League which will now be for newcomers and members of the development squad.