Mayfield preview

Rochdale Mayfield play their last game in this abridged season at the Mayfield Sports Centre today against old Pennine league rivals Ovenden.

The Halifax based side beat Mayfield earlier on this season in a dour game which left coach Sam Butterworth commenting: “They should never have beaten us they were no more than a pub team” - well today is the day when his side can redeem themselves.

Mayfield come off the back of a polished win over Elland while Ovenden experienced a similar win over Saddleworth and are currently occupying second spot in the group.

Butterworth included himself in the starting line up last week and proved yet again that his organisational skills on the pitch coupled with the endeavour and the will to win, of the rest of the squad proved to be an irresistible force.

“We haven’t had the best of seasons,” said Butterworth, “but we have tried different things and different combinations of players in preparation for the real competition when summer rugby kicks off in March, we have been unlucky with injuries up to now and this has been reflected in some of our results.”

He added: “This season has been about preparation for the summer season and as I’ve said all along we are not far off being a very good side. We have an almost full strength squad out this afternoon and have trained well all week, the team and I are confident we can end on a high and give our spectators what they deserve, a good win over Yorkshire opposition.”

The alliance side also have a home fixture when they entertain mid table Wigan St Judes.

The Alliance team are enjoying a fantastic season so far with only one defeat from six starts, coach Ashworth is delighted with the showing his young charges have put up so far, he said: “The lads who have come through from the under 18s have been outstanding, along with the more experienced lads we have the makings of a team not just for this season but for years to come as well and one thing that is for sure, we will only get better.

“St Judes are not to be underestimated they have a quality squad and on their day are capable of beating the best.”

NCL Group D, Mayfield v Ovenden; kick off 2.30pm
NCL alliance Mayfield v Wigan St Judes; kick off 1.00 pm