Rugby league: Mayfield Preview

Photo: Aidy Gleeson Snr

James Mulvaney is available for Mayfield this week

Mayfield make the journey to St Helens this weekend to take on Thatto Heath in the NCL Premier Division this Saturday 14 May.

This is, as always a massive game. Last week's win lifted the spirits at the club and coaches Sam Butterworth and Steve Wood are looking to capitalise on that. A change in the training regime has meant a better effort at sessions and better training usually equates to better results.

The performance against Siddal was patchy to say the least but that won't do this week. Thatto always have a big robust pack driven on by good half backs. This combination means that any weakness will always be exploited by them, Mayfield will be hoping that there is no sign of weakness on Saturday and that they have it them to take two points and leave themselves in a much better position in the division.

Thatto have lost two and drawn one showing that they are definitely beatable. Last week they narrowly edged out Dewsbury side Thornhill in a hard fought contest, setting up a great contest today. Butterworth hopes to have a full squad to select from with Si Moore back from holiday and James Mulvaney back from his university rugby. There were a couple of players in last week's game who were under the weather with illness and they are are reporting in as fit so Mayfield should be able to put out a strong side and Butterworth is looking for a strong performance.

Andy Reed and Craig White welcome Thatto Heath to the Mayfield Sports Centre in the NWML Division 3. Thatto are top of the table and will present a tough challenge to the young Mayfield side. Reed is confident that with a full side and a good performance they have enough in them to take the points from the league leaders. Whatever happens the lads know they have a hard game on and only the best will do on the pitch this afternoon.

Fixtures 14 May 2022

• NCL Premier Divison: Thatto Heath v Mayfield, kick off 2.30pm
• NWML Divison 3: Mayfield v Thatto Heath, kick off 2.30pm