Chiswick RFC are determined to get rid of a seven-year itch once and for all when they take on Maidstone in the London & SE Intermediate Cup final next month.
The Dukes Meadow side reached the regional final by coming from behind to beat Crowborough 17-10 in the semi-finals last Saturday, and could now be just one step from Twickenham.
Victory over Maidstone would put them into the national semis, which could be held at the home of rugby, and a further win would get them into the national final, which will definitely be held there.
Being so close once more brings back memories of seven years ago, when Chiswick got all the way to the national semis of the Junior Vase, but dreams of Twickers were shattered when they lost at Doncaster Phoenix.
Club chairman Kelvin Campbell, who is the club's record appearance holder with 604 games, was part of that side in 2008, and remembers the disappointment only too well.
He said: “With games like that one, with us having to travel all the way to Doncaster and playing in front of a big home crowd, it's pretty much nailed on that the home side will win.
“But we only lost by five points, and in the last round of this year's tournament, we came from behind to win at Norwich in the last round, so it can be done.
“We won't start as favourites against Maidstone as they were relegated two divisions last year, not because they weren't good enough but as an RFU punishment for not giving up a player who gouged someone's eye.”
Back in 2008 Chiswick were a London Three NW side, but they are now in London Two NW and looking good for a chance at playing at their highest ever level, London One.
Despite being the only side to beat leaders Harrow this season – twice – they appear too far behind them to wrestle away the title, but are in prime position for second place and the sole play-off spot.
Campbell added: “We're hoping to secure a home play-off to give us the best possible chance, but there's a long way to go yet.
“Going up would be both a poisoned chalice and a holy grail. It would mean more investment, which is the price you pay for success, but you have to take these chances when they come.”
Chiswick found themselves 10-7 down at half time against Crowborough despite a Dan Godfrey try after Sam Leslie Miller was halted just a metre from the posts, and Gabs Lowe converted.
A Lowe penalty levelled things up after the break, before two minutes later, Jon Joyce took an inside pass from Dan Sutherland to touch down the winning try, with Lowe again converting.
The game against Maidstone will be played on March 14, with the venue yet to be decided.
