With rugby on hold for Christmas, St Ives Rugby Club's head coach Paul Humphreys has said he expects his rejuvenated Bulls side to "shock" a few teams once the season recommences.

St Ives are currently tenth in the Counties 1 Midlands East South division, only two places from the bottom, but Humphreys has said once his side starts to take their chances, the bulls should start to climb the table.

Humphreys said: “I think we always knew it would be a bit of a challenge with Max Domino (the former head coach) standing down and me taking over.

"I think it’s going well; the boys have welcomed the changes, we’re definitely making strides in the right direction, and I think we’re in a good position to launch the second half of the season."

Humphreys is currently in his first year in charge of St Ives, having stepped up from coaching the colts, and after adapting to senior rugby, he said the side is just starting to turn a corner.

The Hunts Post: Backrow Ollie Raine has been one of the standout players for St Ives in the first half of the season.Backrow Ollie Raine has been one of the standout players for St Ives in the first half of the season. (Image: Paul Cox)

Humphreys added: "The boys are a bit more comfortable with the style of play, they’re a lot more at ease with it.

"Second half of the season should be interesting. Certainly, a few teams will be shocked I think."

Despite losing 10 games and winning two so far this season, St Ives have been unfortunate to be on the losing side, with many games separated by small margins.

Humphrey said if the team's composure and structure can improve when getting into scoring positions, the league position should look after itself.

He said: "If we play well and convert our chances, then there is not a team that can beat us in the league, and I truly believe that.

"I don’t believe we’ve been beaten by many sides, we’ve beaten ourselves at times.” 

"We just have to trust in the things we’ve done to get to the 22 and just keep doing it, and the tries will flow."

Injuries have also blighted St Ives at times this year, with the Bulls yet to name the same side twice.

However, having not played since December 3, the break has allowed players to recuperate.

Humphreys added: " I’m looking forward to the second half of the season and the challenges it brings in a good way.”

“We’re there or thereabouts. A bit more conformity in selection and the league will be a different place.” 

St Ives will return for the second half of the season at home to Stamford on January 7.