Mayfield to host York Acorn in the first round of the play offs this weekend

Joe Taira is suspended for the play off game against York Acorn

It's down to the serious business now as the National Conference League Premier Division play offs begin this weekend. After finishing third in the table Mayfield have earned themselves a home tie against the sixth place finishers, York Acorn.

Mayfield beat Acorn in both the regular league fixtures and go into this game as favourites, but we all know that stands for nothing in these types of games. It's all about who brings their A game, who performs on the day and leaves nothing in the dressing room.

While Mayfield were battling out a hard fought victory over a very tough West Bowling side last week, Acorn were coasting to a 70 point victory over already relegated Egremont, so they will be coming into this one brimming with confidence. Sam Butterworth's boys will look to exploit that and hit them hard right from the whistle.

There will be changes to the side from last week, as there has been every week this season. Joe Taira is suspended following his sending off at West Hull a couple of weeks ago so he will miss out and their are a couple of late fitness tests as the lads get over recent knocks. But as it has been shown this season there is a new found strength in depth within the squad and Butterworth knows whoever comes into the side will give nothing less than 100%.

As if any further incentive was needed, the winners of this game receive a home tie next week against the winners of the fourth v fifth place game, Hunslet v Wath Brow. First and second placed Siddal and West Hull get to rest for a week, before facing each other next week at Siddal.

Fixtures 14 September 2024 - NCL Premier Division play offs round one

• Mayfield v York Acorn, 2.30pm kick off
• Hunslet v Wath Brow, 2.30pm kick off