DES Brackett has been impressing on his Oxford University team what a big deal it is to box at the York Hall.

But the coach is confident they will fired up and ready for the 100th Varsity Match.

Brackett said: "As a boxer myself, it took me to reach an ABA final or an international match to fight at the York Hall.

"They are lucky to be given this opportunity, many of them after just two or three fights.

"My message was that I didn't want to send someone to Bethnal if they were green. I was trying to get them as much experience as possible.

"I think this is going to be one of the closest matches for a long time. Last year's, which we won, was over quite early on."

As an amateur boxer, Brackett was a junior ABA and young England champion and fought all over Europe.

Despite this, he stressed: "Coaching the team this year is up there with some of my best achieve- ments.

"Not being a student, I will still be proud to say I was the coach that took the team to the 100th Varsity Match.

"It's history and it's great to be part of that."

He added: "The supporters can effect a close decision, swaying it one way or the other. Hopefully we can bring a big crowd."

Team selection was decided by Brackett, his assistant Dave Mace and captain James Webster.

"There were a lot of things that we had to consider," said Brackett.

"It's always disappointing having to leave someone out, but there were certain things throughout the season that made us reach our decision."

Oxford's build-up has included a 10-5 victory in the Town versus Gown match, fighting a Portsmouth select team, and the British Universities Sports Association (BUSA) championships.

Brackett said: "The Town versus Gown match was good for them. Everyone has got a grip on the sport now.

"At the BUSA championships we came away with two gold medals and we've been improving during the season."

Brackett has been struggling himself in the build-up after trapping a nerve in his back during his work as a brick layer with Oxford City Council.

"It's frustrating for me because I should be down there instructing them," he admitted.

What does the final week look like for the team?

Brackett said: "We start easing down. What we are doing now is technical preparation. We've done the hard build up and the long runs.

"A lot of it is about getting them focussed and putting them at ease. I'm the coach and I'm still nervous, so that is important, but there's been a good feeling in the team this year.

He added: "At the end of the day, and if everyone gives 100 per cent, you can't ask for anything more."