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Rochdale Mayfield

Mayfield will be hoping there is no repeat of last week’s drama as they hit the road again on Saturday. The only fire Matt Calland will want to see is that inside of his team’s collective belly as they take on league leaders and long-time rivals Siddal.

Saturday’s opponents have been top of the league for most of the season but went down to a surprise defeat at Castleford Lock Lane last week. They are strong right across the pitch and have had the luxury of a settled side this season with not too many injuries, whereas Mayfield have rarely been able to field the same side in consecutive weeks.

Last week’s game was a prime example of that, with ten first team regulars missing from the line-up.

Calland and Sam Butterworth will be hoping to welcome back some of those players but face some tough decisions for the team selection after the side’s performance at York last time out.

One thing is for sure, if the young players turn out again they will show no fear in the face of the best side in the league. These youngsters have come through the Mayfield ranks together and really do play for one another. With the more experienced players set to return, this squad is fast becoming a force to be reckoned with.

The NWML side is in action at the Mayfield Sports Centre on Saturday as well, where they will face local side Oldham St Annes.

Annes won the last meeting quite easily as Dave Harmer’s side struggled to get their season going, but Saturday’s encounter should be a different story as more of the u18s become available for selection. As in the first team, there is a good blend of youth and experience in this side.

Fixtures

6 August 2016

NCL Premier Division: Siddal v Mayfield - 2.30pm
NWL Division Two: Mayfield v St Annes - 2.30pm