Mayfield preview

Mayfield’s National Conference side are back in action tomorrow (25 September) with a trip over the Pennines to Leeds, where they face an Oulton Raiders side who currently boast a 100% record in division one.

The Raiders are averaging over thirty points per game, so the Rochdale defence will have to be at their best to halt the free scoring Yorkshire men.

Butterworth is hoping to have a full squad to select from with no injury worries, so welcomed back to the fold tomorrow will be the vastly experienced Damian Gibson. Gibson starred at the back end of last season, and was instrumental in the surge in form that saw Mayfield clinch seventh spot in the league table, after while before they looked like candidates for the drop.

The team has not yet been selected, but it’s looking likely that Butterworth will again name himself in the seventeen, after his second half contribution helped put Myton to the sword in Mayfield’s last outing.

Big hitting forwards Maroney, Robinson and Matty Moores have started the season in fine form, along with the marauding Ben Simpson, and are relishing the prospect of bringing about Oulton’s downfall, and with Todd O’Brien leading his forwards around the pitch, it will be no surprise to the Mayfield faithfull if the points make their way back to Rochdale this afternoon.

It’s derby day for Mayfield NWC tomorrow too, as the Rochdale Cobras make the short trip to the Mayfield Sports Centre.

After a fantastic season in division 5 and promotion to division 4, the Cobras have struggled to come to terms with the step up in class. But Mayfield could not find the right strategy to defeat them in the recent Riley Cup games, and the Cobras were victorious on each occasion.

The Mayfield squad has strengthened since then, and is currently undefeated in the league, with three wins from three outings. The addition of Marvin Connolly to the coaching team has added another dimension to the play and, under the leadership of Leon Ashworth, a fine balance has been struck, and the future certainly looks rosy.
As with most teams, the forwards are laying the platform and the backs are reaping the benefits. Biggins and Ellis have been outstanding in the pack with Lee, Duffy and Marsland catching the eye in the backs. The whole squad are relishing the prospect of a local derby tomorrow afternoon, and training has seen the intensity move up a notch or two.

Due to commitments at the club, this game may kick off early. Please ring the club for more details on 01706 527103.

All club members are reminded that subs are now due and can be paid at club; full players subs £30, social members £10. This entitles you to discounted prices at the bar or when booking the function room.

Fixtures; Nat Con div 1; Oulton Raiders v Mayfield ko 2.30. NWC div 4; Mayfield v Cobras, ko TBA

For further information contact the club on 07530420241 or email rochdalerugbyleague@live.co.uk