‘We can get the result we need’: DURFC vice-captain speaks ahead of Hartpury clash

Durham University’s rugby vice–captain, Harry Willard, has led his team through an inspiring turnaround this season, transforming a tough start into a series of victories that have propelled them to fourth in the BUCS Super League standings.

Reflecting on the team’s early challenges, Harry didn’t shy away from the reality of the situation: “The squad had lost a significant number of senior players at the end of last year, including key third–year player sand postgraduates,” he admitted. “That meant losing a lot of experience.” But the vice–captain, alongside the team, has risen to the occasion, refusing to let those setbacks define
their season.

Turning point: From Swansea disappointment to Exeter triumph

One of the most defining moments of the season came after a tough loss to Swansea earlier in the year. That game forced the team to confront some harsh realities.

“Swansea was a tough week. We had to take a good hard look at ourselves,” Harry admitted. “We knew that if we wanted to be real competitors in this league, we needed to be better, more focused, and more committed.” That introspection galvanised the squad, and the lessons learned were quickly put into action.

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The impact of those changes was evident in their next game—an away match against Exeter at Sandy Park. Playing in front of 2,000 fans in a high–pressure environment, Durham delivered an unforgettable performance. “The boys just absolutely turned up,” Harry recalled.

“We were underdogs, but we played with heart, with the energy of a team that had something to prove. We gave everything on that pitch, and I think that was the moment that
gave us belief in what we could achieve together.”

Willard also highlighted key contributions from his teammates, including Ethan Knight’s pivotal effort. “Exeter made a line break and Knighty tracked back, using his little legs making a try–saving tackle, then getting up to win the penalty,” he recounted, grinning. “It was absolutely huge for us, and moments like that make all the difference.” The victory over Exeter not only erased the sting of the Swansea defeat but also set the tone for the rest of the season.

Durham fall short against Bath in a thrilling contest

Despite their upward trajectory, Durham’s latest outing saw them fall to Bath in a nail–biting encounter. In a game that showcased the intense competitiveness of the BUCS Super League, Durham gave everything but narrowly missed out in the final moments due to a strong showing from the Bath bench, eventually losing out 27 points to Bath’s 41. Harry expressed his disappointment but remained optimistic: “It was a tough loss to take, especially with how much we put into that game. But it’s all part of the journey, and we’re focused on bouncing back stronger.”