RUGBY UNION: The Ipswich YM play host to the Norwich outfit, Crusaders, at Rushmere tomorrow and coach Noel Holloway has stressed the need to improve performance if the undefeated run is to continue.

RUGBY UNION

THE Ipswich YM play host to the Norwich outfit, Crusaders, at Rushmere tomorrow and coach Noel Holloway has stressed the need to improve performance if the undefeated run is to continue.

"Last week's trip to Norwich Union was quite pathetic really. Just because the opponents are struggling this year the pack ran around doing just enough and yes, any win is a good win and two league points, but the manner of the victory is important too," he said.

Crusaders have lost a few games this season, but always step up their efforts against the old enemy down in Ipswich.

A last-gasp try from winger Carlton Ford clinched the YM a sweet win at Hethersett in November 16 and the Ipswich squad are expecting another tough battle.

The Rushmere side face a crucial period over the next few weeks as the four opponents lined up after Crusaders are all in that chasing pack near the top of the division. Games against Wisbech, Newmarket, Southwold and Cantab's could prove decisive in the promotion aspirations at The Street.

This week the squad welcomes back Tim Styles. The versatile back, who lines up at centre or winger, has been out with injuries throughout this campaign but he has looked very sharp in training of late and fully deserves his call-up.

The YM Hawks are away to Sudbury's third XV in a Merit Table fixture. They will be without the guiding influence of the veterans manager Kenny Reeve, who fancied an early shower in the latter stages of a "frustrating" contest against Colchester.