Rugby League: Mayfield preview

Mayfield could do themselves a massive favour on Saturday if they can take two points from their opponents, bottom club Thornhill.

That said, it will be no foregone conclusion.

Thornhill although having had a poor start are a decent side, especially on their own ground.

Mayfield beat Thornhill 20 - 30 in the Challenge Cup back in February and know that they are big side with a very physical pack.

To win on Saturday Mayfield will have to match that, and go forward with aggression.

Sam Butterworth said: “We hope the side will be boosted by players returning, with Si Moore, Sean Mulcahy, Nick Hargreaves, James Mills, John Stott and Alex Davidson all back in contention for places.

“Whoever makes the final 17 knows it won’t be an easy game and they will have to be ready for a tough uncompromising game of rugby league.

“The pack is where this game will be won or lost, on a small pitch with a sloping corner, that the home side play to their advantage.

“The half back pairing will also be crucial, and Steve Wood and I will hold fire on selection until we are sure we have the right balance.

“It’s too early in the season to be saying that this is a must win game, but if Mayfield want to begin pushing and improving their league position, these are the games they need to be winning.”

The NWML side are again struggling for numbers after going through a stage where they had to leave players out. Craig White's side will be hoping the AWOL players get back to the club and start playing rugby.

There is a home game scheduled against Shevington Sharks.

This will be a tough encounter no doubt about it, but the coaching staff know they have the players to go into games like this with their head held high.

Fixtures 15 June 2019

• NCL Premier Divsion: Thornhill v Mayfield KO 2.30pm
• NWML Premier Division: Mayfield v Shevington KO 2.30pm