Bury Rugby Club’s director of rugby Terry Sands believes Saturday’s home game against Hertford is a must-win encounter.

Hertford overtook Bury in fifth position in the SSE National League Three last weekend after the Suffolk side’s heavy 73-35 defeat to leaders Dorking, and Hertford’s narrow 18-13 win over CS Rugby 1863.

“Hertford have nudged above us,” admitted Sands.

“But we’re committed in getting that position back.

“We’ve had Jon Curry from Northampton Saints training the lads this week and the pack are ready for two huge home games before the Christmas break.”

After the challenge of Hertford, Bury also face basement side Barking as they look to hold onto their top six position heading into the new year.

“We set our targets at the start of the season to come in the top six and if we can go into the Christmas period in that position then we are on course and have every chance of achieving those goals,” said Sands.

Bury were comfortably beaten against Dorking last weekend in a high-scoring affair that saw over 100 points accumulated.

“Dorking were a quality side as you’d expect being top of the league but our defensive indiscipline helped them achieve this,” said Sands.

“I think they scored five tries when we went down to 13 players and again we were punished.

“The lads have been working hard on defensive and set-piece sessions this week though and have taken advice from Jon and all the coaching staff on board.

“Things are very different from London One and I still think a lot of players have taken their time in realising what a big jump this level of rugby is.”

Bury full-back and vice-captain Casey Stone echoed Sands’ comments.

“Dorking were pretty sharp and clinical,” said the Kiwi.

“They capitalised and exploited us when we lost players and showed their experience.”

Stone, who has played a great deal of rugby at a higher level in his home country of New Zealand, has had to step into the captaincy role for the last two weeks after the absence of Matt Edison.

“It’ll be a bit of a relief to hand the armband back to Matt if I’m honest,” said Stone.

“I prefer to be in the background and just get on with my game.

“I’m hoping Matt can take the burden off my shoulders, so to speak, and lead us back to winning ways.”

Stone continued: “Being at home gives us a great chance to finish the year off strongly.

“The lads are up for the challenge and are looking forward to the rest of the season - we’re all enjoying it.”

The Haberden club are set to give academy product and 19-year-old prop Sean Davies his first start in Bury colours tomorrow.