Mayfield preview

It would take nothing short of a miracle for there to be any games on on Saturday (4 December 2010), but if a big thaw does occur then Myton Warriors from Hull will be the visitors to the Mayfield sports centre.

Like Mayfield Myton had no game last week so should be rested and ready to go. They are in the bottom half of the table while their hosts sit proudly in the top four and look ready to progress further.

The weather has made training difficult this week with even all weather pitches falling foul of the snow and ice. Mayfield however have the luxury of using their own gym at the club so at least have been able to get together to workout.

As the half way stage is on the approach it is time to have a look at what has happened so far.

The campaign began with a home tie against Milford of Leeds and a narrow 16-19 defeat. This was followed by an away win then three losses, including one away to local rivals St. Annes. Since then ‘the field’ have won the last six games on the bounce to see them consolidating a creditable fourth spot in division one.

There have been a couple of new players come into the squad, most notably Saqib Murtza. Saqib spent some time in the pro game before playing at the Mayfield Sports Centre with the British Asian Rugby Association. He was so impressed with the set up at Mayfield that he agreed to become a Mayfield Player. Another new signing is the vastly experienced Paul Anderson.

Anderson is one of two Mayfield players who boast Super League experience, the other being Damian Gibson. This is a massive boost to the club and the players.

Chairman Simon Howe was delighted with the signing of Anderson, he said: “What players like Paul and Damian don’t know about Rugby League isn’t worth knowing. The benefit our lads will get playing with these twp is immeasurable. Throw into the mix players like Todd O’Brien, Maroney, Robinson and Ben Simpson and its east to see why we have climbed to second place. We are always looking to the future at this club and believe me the future looks bright.”

Mayfield NWC are scheduled for an away game at Eccles who are next to the bottom of the division 4, while Mayfield are next to top but this game to, is unlikely to be played.

The season so far is going well for the NWC side after a good start they then lost a couple but are now back on track with five wins from their last five outings.

Ashworth and assistant Connelly have combined well and are forging what looks like a team that will be challenging for honours come the end of the season.

“Our forwards have seldom been bettered this campaign,” said Ashworth, “and this has laid the platform for some great performances, all teams that do well have a good pack and we certainly have that.

“With Ellis and Biggins leading the way and Simpson, Hancock and White not far behind them it is giving the backs a chance to shine. Abraham, Lane, Connelly and Snape are all scoring tries and this is making us a difficult side to beat. More than anything though, to a man, we are enjoying our rugby league and that’s what it’s all about. Roll on the thaw.”


Fixtures 04.12.10: Nat Con div 1 Mayfield v Myton ko 2.30
NWC div 4 Eccles v Mayfield