READING RFC head coach Paul Gaster is delighted with the club’s preseason as their gear-up for the start of the South West One East campaign.

The Sonning Lane side pulled off a Houdini act to survive in 11th place last time out, but the return of half backs Rob Sweeney and Steve Mills, along with the acquisition of American Dave Henry and back row Luke Titley, have added an air of optimism to the club.

Gaster revealed: “Rob and Steve have come back which has strengthened us and Dave and Luke have really impressed.

“Andy Sparks has made the step-up from the 3rds into the senior squad and I’ve really been impressed by him. He’s got an engine like I’ve never seen before and is a hooker who throws in really well, so that’s very positive.

“Stuart Borthwick is also back fit again at scrum half or centre which is great after damaging his shoulder at the start of last season, and Alex Dorliac is also looking great and fitter and stronger."

He continued: “I’m confident we’ve got a much stronger player base this season, particularly as during the last two campaigns at this stage of the season we’ve been asking ‘Whose our nine? Whose our 10?’ “So we’re in a better place than we were regarding players, the attitude is the best I’ve ever seen it since I’ve been here and, so, while I won’t say it’s going to be brilliant, because you never know, but everything seems to be setting up nicely.”

There is a new captain in place as well with back row Jon Cranton taking over from Mark Roberts.

And Gaster admitted: “It’s his first season as first team captain and already he’s really impressed me as he has taken control of a lot of things with regards to bringing the boys on board.

“He has been a strong driving force behind some of the things we’re trying to bring in this season.”

Gaster, now in his fifth season in charge at Reading, has also strengthened his coaching staff with Andy Arter taking over as the new defence and skills coach and linking up with forwards coach Stuart Tait.

And with Reading Abbey joining Newbury, Maidenhead and Windsor in the division, Gaster is excited.

He said: “I think it’s brilliant that Abbey are in. The derby matches are fantastic, that’s what it’s about. I think the league is probably stronger this season, particularly with Old Centralians coming in.”

Training is on Tuesday and Thursday evenings (7.30pm). Anyone interested in joining should turn up on either night or contact Kevin Rackley on 07720 883827.