Hoppers 2nd XV entertain an in form Sale 2nd XV tomorrow, knowing that their progression into the higher league has already been confirmed after Lymm conceded last week following an impressive win at Caldy the week before. Sale lie in 6th place and need something out of the game to ensure that they have the same progression in to the top league after Christmas. After losing against Caldy two weeks ago by a narrow margin, Sale had a fine home win against Fylde last week, so they are sure to be in a positive mood.
Hoppers name a strong team for the game and have had to make some tough decisions as competition for starting places picks up. In the pack, the front row consists of Daniel Burns and Tyler Sloane propping either side of Matthew Beaty. In the 2nd row, Johnty Wilson partners the returning Anthony Dennison. The back row see’s North U18s trialist Jack Granby start in the regular 6 shirt, Jack Edwards again pushes for first team contention in the 7 shirt, and the experienced Matt Frings takes the 8 jersey.
In the backs, the half backs is very much a family affair as Jack Swarbrick and Harry Swarbrick take the nine and ten shirt respectively. In the centres, the versatile Dominic Aspinal partners the returning league convert Harvey May. The back three see’s Rhys Llewllyn make his debut on the wing, with Ollie Kitchen on the opposite side and Jake Ellwood at fullback. On the bench there is plenty of fire power as Corey Logan, Danny Lin and Matthew Lambert look to add plenty of enthusiasm.
This is the final game before the league splits in two, and the team will be looking to continue their recent run of form and cement 2nd place before the competition picks up in the New Year. The lads will be ready for a break to get over the little niggles that they seem to be carrying, and with the 1st XV also at home to Sale, it will be a good day of rugby for all round at Lightfoot Green.
