Preston Grasshoppers 2nd XV v Rochdale 2nd XV – 3.00pm
This week sees Hoppers 2’s entertain Rochdale 2’s in what will surely be an entertaining game of rugby. Hoppers have had a great start to the season and lie joint top of the Cotton Traders Premier League with 4 other teams all tied on 21 points. The guys are in buoyant mood after defeating local rivals Fylde Hawks two weeks ago, and are looking to improve on the performance, and keep their position at the top end of the league. Rochdale are yet to register a win this season, and come off the back of a heavy defeat at home to Caldy two weeks ago so they will be eager to get that first elusive ‘W’. They currently lie in 13th position and i’m sure they will be going all out in order to climb out of the relegation zone.
The front row of Daniel Burns, Harry Holden and Tyler Sloane will surely provide a solid yet dynamic platform for the forwards. In the engine room, the seasoned and experienced Jonty Wilson partners the dynamic Matthew Lambert, whilst the back row provides some real excitement as Rob Bramhall and Danny Linn command the flanks, and Matt Frings starts at 8.
The backs sees a change at 9 with regular Michael Searle injured representing his uni this week, so the ever versatile skipper Andrew Deakin takes the jersey. With Will Hunt taking his opportunity with the first team, Alex Zavallis-Roebuck takes the fly half role and brings a wealth of experience to the team and will look to get his back line creating at every opportunity. Oli Yates is also given an opportunity to impress at inside centre and will be ably supported by RL convert Jack Swarbrick, an exciting partnership that could trouble most defences. On the wings, Hoppers new boy and RL convert Harvey will be looking to show his impressive form from training and will be partnered by the Fijian Falemaka. Tom Forster takes the 15 shirt and looks to continue his impressive form. On the bench, we have great strength in depth with Andrews covering the front row, Aspinall covers the forward back 5 and Elwood with provide backs cover.
With the 1st XV away from home this week, tell the wives the usual rugby excuses or that you have to pop out for some groceries and get down to the club and cheer the lads on as they continue to challenge the top of the table.
Paul Moran
2nd XV Coach
