BUDE RFC team manager and joint head coach Simon Jeffery feels his side are on the right path after a positive start to the season.

Despite Saturday’s home clash with Wiveliscombe being called off due to Storm Darragh, the Seasiders sit eighth in the 12-team Counties One Western West, a real improvement on last season which saw them finish second bottom and only avoid relegation due to issues higher up the pyramid.

But having brought through some youngsters and had the core of the same side each week, results and performances have started to turn.

Jeffery told the Post: “I think encouraging a mindset change within the senior set up has had a massive impact on how we are playing this year.

“It’s been great to have enough players to be able to comfortably put out a first and second team most weeks, which has been a real change of pace from previous years.

“We have only been able to do this by having the continued support and commitment from the players. Last season was a tough year for everyone and one thing we all worked on at the start of the year was that we weren’t going to be that team this season.

“We wanted to be the team with energy and a team that doesn't let their heads drop, and that’s been the case.”

Bude have had youngsters Matt Maniglia, Ollie Rowland and Alfie Hurwood start the majority of their matches and Jeffery feels they’ve added to the group, as well as the more senior players.

He said: “Bringing young faces in is always good for a team as they bring so much energy and talent with them.

“It’s exciting times in Bude this year with our first colts team for several years up and running, so it’s looking good for young players coming up through the system into the senior set up.

“Lots of things have changed from last year, but myself and Joe Wilson started this season with a plan to bring enjoyment back to the senior teams and start playing basic competitive rugby. Everyone has been putting in the effort and it’s starting to come together. We aren’t the finished product yet but we are improving week in, week out.”

Bude may have only won three of their ten outings, but they have picked up five try-scoring bonus points and a losing bonus point, whereas last year they managed just eight in total from 22 matches.

Jeffery added: “I feel mid-table for our first season of trying to rebuild the team would be a good finish, although I’m sure Joe and I wouldn’t complain if we could sneak up another couple of places!”

Bude have a tough run of fixtures either side of Christmas before a much more favourable run-in.

On Saturday they visit a Kingsbridge side who are renowned for their strong home form before taking on leaders Paignton and third-placed Plymstock Albion Oaks either side of the festive break.

Jeffery said: “Every game in this league is a tough game, so we will continue to do what we do week in week out and that is to continue to work hard in training and build the effort ready for the Saturday.”

Despite struggling for results in recent times, Jeffery is delighted with the feel around Bencoolen Meadow, adding: “Thank you to the players for their continued support and also to the spectators who watch us home and away. I know it isn’t always easy to watch Bude, but having you there is really appreciated!”

Bude Seconds are also back in action this weekend in Counties Three Cornwall when they welcome their Truro counterparts (2.30pm).