As the Northants Knights gear up for their highly anticipated season opener against the Somerset Wyverns, excitement and anticipation are reaching a fever pitch among players and fans alike.

Stepping onto the field for the first time since their promotion to Division 1, the highest tier of U19s football, the Knights are poised for a thrilling showdown against formidable opponents. With both teams eager to make their mark in this new season, all eyes will be on the gridiron as these young athletes prepare to showcase their skills and determination in a clash of titans.

Before the annual curtain raiser, we caught up with Knights u19 Head Coach, Jack O’Beirne to hear his thoughts on the match up.

What are your expectations for the team as they enter their first game in Division 1?

Our expectations never change. We have a saying here that ‘best is the standard’ and we want to always be the best we can be. We’re not just in D1 to make up the numbers, we have earned the right to compete at this level and we are ready to make a statement.

How has the team prepared differently for the higher level of competition in Division 1?

It’s been a completely different ball game for a lot of the players. They have never had to deal with special teams before and a lot of the guys had stepped up from under 16s where they play on a small sized field. But we have been working hard in the off season and prepared like warriors. The intensity at practice has been off the charts and we are ready. This season we took the mantra ‘Dare to be Great’ and taking the step up to division one is the first part of this. I’m excited to see us go to work.

What specific challenges do you anticipate facing against Somerset Wyverns in this matchup?

Facing off against the Wyverns is going to be a battle there is no doubt about it. I know they are as hungry as us to make their name in Division 1 and I’m sure coach Lambell will have them ready. Our biggest obstacle though will be the travel as we have a 180 mile journey to the game and the lads will need to be up early. It’s going to be a tough test but that’s what we live for. We thrive on challenges and on the field we will show it.

Are there any key players or strategies you're relying on to make an impact in this game?

We have a squad full of playmakers across the field. I think in previous years we have a run heavy team but we are a lot more balanced this year with the addition of Marcus at quarterback. He is a maestro on the field and orchestrates our offense really well. On defense we have filled some gaps in the off season and it could be one of the strongest defences we have ever had when every body is healthy and on the field. Ryan has stepped up from under 16 football and has really impressed in the secondary, I can not wait to see him on the field.

How do you plan to maintain the team's morale and confidence, especially considering the transition to Division 1?

With this current group it’s easy. They are a confident bunch and that stems from the practice field. Hard work breeds confidence and this group has worked tirelessly since the final game of last season. We trained right through winter and every week we got 1% better. The transition to division one might sound daunting, but I have got full faith in my squad.

What are the team's long-term goals for the season, and how does this first game fit into that picture?

Our long-term goals for the season are crystal clear: we're aiming for greatness. We didn't come this far, work this hard, just to settle for mediocrity. Our goal is to make a statement in Division 1, to establish ourselves as contenders, and to compete at the highest level week in and week out. This first game against the Somerset Wyverns is just the beginning. It's our chance to set the tone for the rest of the season, to show the league what we're made of, and to lay down a marker for the rest of the year.

Finally, how do you see this game setting the tone for the rest of the season in Division 1?

Like I said previously, this is a chance to set the tone for the rest of the season. This is the first piece of the puzzle and I know our team is only going to get stronger as the season goes on. This game will set our standard of excellence, and our identity as a team. We’re ready to leave it all out on the field and show everyone what Northants Knights are made of.