The upcoming run of four home games are pivotal for Aberdeen Grammar as they look to get their season back on track.
Grammar are without a win in their opening eight games and sit bottom of the Premiership, with injuries and Covid having a hugely detrimental impact on their fortunes.
However, this weekend’s game against Edinburgh Accies is the first of four in a row at Rubislaw, an unusual but vital run which Grammar must capitalise on to drag themselves away from the foot of the table.
Centre Mark New, who has overcome ankle trouble to be fit for Saturday, understands the importance of making home advantage count.
“It’s been really tough for the lads traipsing down to the Borders and Edinburgh,” he said. “When it’s back-to-back, it takes it out of you.
“Four games on the bounce here puts us in a really good position to get away from the survival battle.
“Everyone is aware of the position we’re in but it’s nothing new to the lads. Don’t get me wrong, it has been tough, but the mood has been good and with these four home games we’ve got something to be really excited about. ”
After Accies this weekend, GHA, Glasgow Hawks and Marr will all come to Aberdeen, as Ali O’Connor’s side look to grasp some much-needed momentum.
New joined the club last year but did not get to make his debut until 2021 because of the pandemic. In his first game he injured his ankle and missed seven games.
The injury crisis is something which has dogged Grammar all season and New is one of a few bodies which are close to a return, along with Nat Coe and Bryn Perrott.
“It was disappointing but I’ve been playing rugby long enough to expect it I suppose,” added New.
“But I took it on the chin and looked forward to playing rugby again. I feel I can bring a lot to the team; I’m a bit of an older head even at 23 and hopefully, over the next few weeks, hopefully we can add a bit of clarity and structure in the midfield and really kick on.
“Hopefully we can get a few boys back sooner than expected and give ourselves a bit more depth over the next few games.”