Mayfield in the Challenge Cup

Sam Butterworth and Matt Calland with last seasons player of the year Paul Brearley

Mayfield kick off their season on Saturday with the first round of the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup.

They are drawn away to NWML premier division champions Widnes West Bank.

As well as being league champions Bank also clinched the NWML cup in a thrilling final against local rivals Clock Face.

Despite their lower league standing the Mayfield coaching duo of Matt Calland and Sam Butterworth will not be underestimating their opponents knowing all too well the possibility of an upset, after last season’s reversal at second division Thornhill Trojans in the Conference Cup.

Team selection will be the toughest for a long time for the coaches with the team having been back in training since early December they have had the chance to have a long hard look at the players.

There have also been some personnel changes with Joe Quanici signing for Rochdale Hornets and Eric Johnson and Todd O'Brien being tied up with work commitments.

Popular Aussie centre Dave Wood will be returning home next month after an absolutely outstanding last season. These are four quality players who will be missed at Mayfield.

On the plus side there have been some exciting signings, Matty Moores returns after a season out of the game. Also back is Si Moore after a season playing and coaching in Australia, where he gained some valuable experience.

Moore didn't return empty handed he also brought back two players, powerful back row forward Sean Watkins and pacy wing/centre Rhys Carruth.

A massive boost to the club is the return of young hooker Callum Ogden after two years at Bradford academy.

Ogden is a quality hooker who passes well from the floor in either direction, he has a good understanding of the game and will be a great asset to the side.

Also in the running for places will be a handful of last years' all-conquering U18 side.

Dec Sheridan has already established himself in the side while Jack Rush and Ste Paul both had runouts last season.

There is a real buzz among the players and the staff with a real 'let’s make it our year' feeling at the club.