Friday Night Lights return to the Richmond Athletic Ground this week as Richmond host Nottingham in Round 16 of the Champ, kicking off at 7:45pm.

The RAG has earned a reputation for producing memorable Friday night occasions, and with four evening fixtures scheduled this month, anticipation is building once again. Up first is a Nottingham side who edged a thriller when the teams met earlier in the season, and Richmond will be eager to respond in front of a home crowd.

The sides last met in October at Lady Bay, where Richmond produced a spirited performance, fighting back from a 22-6 half-time deficit before falling narrowly short in a 29-27 defeat. That night showcased Richmond’s resilience and attacking threat, dominating the final quarter and pushing the Archers all the way to the final phases. Fine margins separated the two sides, and Friday presents an immediate opportunity to turn that result around.

With the season now moving into its second half, momentum and consistency are key. Richmond will take confidence from how they finished that reverse fixture, as well as from recent performances, knowing that execution and discipline against one of the league’s most physical sides will be crucial.

This Friday night. Under the lights. Back at the RAG.

THE OPPOSITION: NOTTINGHAM RFC
Nottingham arrive as one of the Champ’s most formidable teams, built on defensive steel and forward power. They boast the league’s strongest defence, leading the Champ for both total successful tackles and tackle success rate, and pride themselves on winning the physical contest.

No 8 James Cherry remains central to their approach, ranking second in the league for carries while also sitting fourth for total tackles, underlining his influence on both sides of the ball. Around him, Michael Green leads the entire Champ for successful tackles, setting the tone defensively, while David Williams ranks second in the league for offloads, adding attacking threat out wide.

Their narrow win in October highlighted Nottingham’s ability to absorb pressure and capitalise when it matters most. Friday night promises another intense encounter, where territory, accuracy, and breakdown control will again prove decisive.