Richmond forward Byron Hodge insists his club are ready for a ‘tenacious battle’ when they play host to the unbeaten Rams this Saturday at the Athletic Ground.

The top of the table clash between the two undefeated clubs in National League 1 will headline an exciting afternoon of local rugby in the Borough, with Richmond Women also in action against Worcester Warriors Women from 5pm.

Hodge, who joined Richmond from local rivals London Scottish in the summer, has been in impressive form for his new club, helping them to four wins from four this season, with victories over Darlington MP, Chinnor, Blackheath and Hull Ionians.

The 27-year-old Australian says he’s loving life at his new club and insists his teammates are more than capable of maintaining their 100% start to the season against a strong Rams outfit.

“It’s always nice to start the season playing good rugby. I have loved every minute of my time so far at Richmond and it’s brilliant to be given the opportunity to excel within a highly driven environment”, said Hodge.

“Winning all four games gives us a huge amount of confidence. We will definitely face our challenges as the season goes on, it will get colder, the pitches will get tougher and no doubt one or two results will not go our way. But we’re confident that we can continue our good run of form.

“Having watched the match footage from their last four matches, we know the challenge against Rams is going to be huge. They’re a tenacious side who play with enormous spirit and intensity. They’re second on the table for a reason and will arrive on Saturday full of enthusiasm and confidence.”

Meanwhile, Richmond Women will play host to their first home fixture of the season, with a highly anticipated clash against Worcester Warriors Women, kicking-off at 5pm.

With both clubs suffering heavy defeats in the first two rounds of the Tyrrells Premier 15s season, the Athletic Ground is set for an intriguing match-up, with Richmond hoping to bounce back strongly following a 46-0 loss to Saracens on Sunday.

For Ellie Boatman, who joined Richmond from Sarries in the off-season, Saturday provides another opportunity to gain further experience for her new club.

The outside back has been one of the standout performers for Richmond in the first two games this season and will again line-up in the number 13 shirt against Worcester.

“It’s always tough losing your first two games by big margins, but to be honest we’ve actually grown stronger from the two experiences”, Boatman said.

“Going into training after the losses, everyone has been extremely positive, we know where we need to improve and every player is committed to getting those areas right.

“Worcester are in a similar position to us. They’re coming off two losses against Wasps and Harlequins and will be very keen to prove themselves. I think it’s going to be a tight game but I am confident we can do well and score some points.”

As for playing her first home match at the Athletic Ground, Boatman says she can’t wait to see the home support.

“To have a double header with the men is very unique and something I’m sure the whole squad is looking forward to”, she said.

“It’s going to be a brilliant day out for everyone and I am extremely excited to play in front of our home supporters for the first time.”

Tickets are still available for Richmond’s double header this Saturday 5th October at the Richmond Athletic Ground (Richmond Men vs Rams, KO 3pm, Richmond Women vs Worcester, KO 5pm). Purchase via eventbrite.co.uk or at the gate.