Director of rugby Steve Hill reckons the depth of talent at his disposal is a sure sign Richmond are gearing up for a National Division Two South title challenge.

Richmond won 27-3 at Clifton on Saturday before a largely second string outfit lost out 45-29 to Oxford University under the Athletic Ground lights on Monday night.

Seven players with first team experience this season were on show against the Dark Blues and they made strong cases for inclusion for Saturday’s trip to Redruth – despite the defeat.

But Hill, whose side has seven bonus-point wins from seven games this season, insists his days of tinkering are over for the time being with, what he labelled, a massive six weeks ahead.

“We’ve used 38 players in the first team this year and with a 30-match league season you have to rotate your players at this time of year when most of the squad is fit,” he said.

“We’ve got a massive six weeks ahead with games against Redruth, Worthing and Henley to come.

“There won’t be that many changes this weekend. We want some continuity.”

A Tom George brace and further scores from Afi Okeshola and David Hughes provided the latest win, and, despite Monday’s defeat, Hill was left purring.

“Our aim is to try to finish top because you want to avoid the play-offs if you can,” he added.

“We need a big squad due to injuries. It’s been enjoyable and we’ll keep going.”