Round 26 Preview: Dings Crusaders vs Birmingham Moseley

Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Venue: Shaftesbury Park, Bristol
Kick-off: 3:00 PM

Head-to-Head History
This season marks the first time Dings Crusaders and Birmingham Moseley have faced each other in National League 1. Their only previous encounter this season was on the opening day, where Birmingham Moseley secured a 40-20 victory at Billesley Common.​

Current Form
Dings Crusaders:
After a challenging start to their inaugural National League 1 campaign, Dings have shown resilience, particularly at home. Boasting a strong home record, with notable victories amassing bonus point wins which have aided the campaign this season.

Birmingham Moseley:
Birmingham Moseley has had a mixed season, with impressive wins such as a 19-0 shutout against Rams. However, they have also faced setbacks, including a 30-19 loss to Rotherham Titans.​ They travel well and will bring a large support with them this Saturday

Players to Watch
Dings Crusaders:
Tomas Gwilliam: The young, but experienced hooker has been instrumental in Dings' forward pack, contributing significantly to their attacking play.
Tom Foot: A dynamic fullback with solid experience, Tommy has been a key figure in Dings' backline, contributing to the scoresheet and creating a safe space in the Blue and Black red zone.

Birmingham Moseley:
Aquile Smith: Celebrated his 100th appearance with a try against Rams, showcasing his finishing abilities.
Dan Brough: A consistent performer in the back three, Brough has been a reliable try-scorer for Moseley.​

Promotion Battles in National League 2
As the National League 2 season concludes, the champions of each regional division earn promotion to National League 1:​
National League 2 North: Leeds Tykes have clinched the title, securing promotion.
National League 2 East: Tonbridge Juddians have emerged as champions and will move up.
National League 2 West: Clifton and Camborne are locked in a thrilling race for promotion. Both teams have identical records, with 19 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses, but Clifton leads the table with 102 points, just ahead of Camborne's 99 points. The final round will be decisive in determining who secures promotion to National League 1.​
These promotions will reshape the competitive landscape of National League 1 in the upcoming season.​
Will we have a couple of local Derby's next season?
Exeter have to travel well to beat Clifton at home, and Camborne head all the way to Macclesfield for their end to the season. Nothing less than a win will do for them.

Relegation from National League 1
At the bottom of National League 1, two teams face relegation to National League 2 for the 2025–26 season. Darlington Mowden Park has already been relegated and can do no more. The second relegation spot is still to be determined, with the final round of matches set to decide which team will join them in the second division.​
Leicester Tigers are having a resurgent end to the season in almost a carbon copy of last year.
Esher could be bowing out as they have to win and Lions have to lose for any hope of survival

Teamsheets to follow