Following the dramatic last gasp victory over promotion favourites London Scottish, Blackheath now look forward to another big match in their first home game of the new National League One season.

Newly-promoted Rosslyn Park will arrive at Rectory Field this Saturday to continue a rivalry which has existed since the two famous old clubs first met in 1890, but Yusuf Ibrahim is not getting carried away after last weekend's exploits.

“If anything I’m expecting Park to pose an even bigger threat than Scottish,” explained Blackheath's Performance Director.

“They've built a fantastic squad over the summer months, and with Wasps’ Dave Walder coming in as backs coach they’ll be highly competitive.”

However, although Yusuf is cautious he does see last Saturday's performance against a formidable Scottish outfit as a sign that his Blackheath side are equipped to compete with the top clubs this term and doesn’t expect a repeat of the difficult start to last season.

“Our senior squad members are all clear of injury and in good shape which wasn’t the case this time last year,” he continued.

“Younger players such as Ben Ransom (full-back) and Harry Allen (hooker) have both represented England U18 and gained huge experience as our side came together post-Christmas."

"New recruits Jack Walsh at scrum-half and wing James Stephenson have huge potential and are both typical of the youth talent we’re keen to develop.”

And Yusuf is confident he has the right people around him to take the Club forward.

“Mike Friday’s reputation as a backs coach (England Sevens 2004-06) precedes him and Bobby Howe is one of the most highly respected forward coaches around."

"They’re ably backed up by Andy Wolstenholme, Sam Howard and Damien Quinn and overseeing everything is our General Manager Albert Patrick who continues to work tirelessly.”

“It’s a tremendous honour to do this job,” he concluded.

“Working with such a great team of people for a club with so much history and fantastic supporters is a massive privilege and something I’m proud to have on my life-CV.”

Blackheath against Rosslyn Park is a 3.00 pm kick-off at Rectory Field on Saturday 11th September.

Admission is £12, inc programme, (U16s free of charge).