ROCHFORD Hundred are enjoying a change of ethos as they bid to bounce back this season.

Hundred line up in Regional Two Anglia this term after suffering two relegations in succession.

But head coach Danny Cleare is enjoying being part of a different approach.

“We’ve had a complete change of squad and a big change of ethos at the club to try and promote from within,” said Cleare.

“It’s been a really nice challenge and pre-season has been really good.

“The attitude of the lads has been second to none and numbers have remained high each session which makes it enjoyable too.”

Rochford kick off their campaign against Chelmsford at Magnolia Road on Saturday.

But it will be a new look Hundred side which takes to the field.

“We’ve brought in a few players in key positions to try and replace what we’ve lost but as previously mentioned we’ve looked more inwards to promote to the first team,” said Cleare.

“We’ve looked at bringing through some of our really talented academy players.

“Two players to really keep an eye on are Jack Aungier and Isaac Mayungbe.

“They’re both 17-years-old and making their first team debuts this weekend.

“I predict both will really shine.”

But Cleare is still remaining realistic when setting targets for the season ahead.

“The aim of this season is to stabilise and be competitive in both first and second team leagues,” said Cleare.

“On top of that we want to bring through as many academy players as possible and integrate them into senior rugby.”

That quest will be begin this weekend but Cleare is expecting a tricky opening game.

“This weekend I am expecting a really tough challenge,”

“They have a very talented player coach in Jack Lavin who made the team of the year in National 2 for Esher the year they won the league.

“They also have other very talented players across their team such as our ex player Josh Cavey who will no doubt be a handful in the back row.”

Elsewhere this weekend Southend Saxons begin life in Regional One South East at home to Bedford Athletic.

Southend won promotion from Regional Two Anglia last season and will now be looking to start the new campaign in fine fashion.

Basildon were also promoted last season and begin their Counties One Essex campaign at East London on Saturday.

In Counties Two Essex, Canvey Island go to Harwich & Dovercourt while Billericay host Old Brentwoods.