Rochdale Hornets News

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The Hornets head on the road this weekend as the men take on North Wales Crusaders in a Kingstone Press Championship fixture at the Racecourse and the ladies take on Whitworth in the ladies Challenge Cup Final at Post Office Road.

For Ian Talbot’s men, a tough task lies in wait but with North Wales lying just one point better than the Hornets, a good performance and points on the board are an absolute must.

Ian Talbot said: "Last week we didn’t perform but got the result, which is in stark contrast to the weeks before against Leigh. We got dragged into a slog, which isn’t our game. This week I have asked the boys for an improved performance and if we play to our capabilities we will come away with what we deserve. 

"The Good Friday game means a short turn around for the boys, who have taken advantage of the ice baths and recovery facilities at the excellent Cowley training facilities and Talbot will asses bumps and bruises before finalising his team on Thursday evening." 

The ladies head into their first final in their first year with only long term injury to prop forward Becki Etchells to worry about, as Beth Harris should recover from a leg injury to put herself forward for a place.

Community manager and Hornets Ladies coach Terri Davey commented: “It is going to be a tough selection and there will be some tears. We have nearly 30 girls signed on and ready to play, but I can only pick 17. I will pick the strongest team available.

"Whitworth are a good, experienced team and we will need to be on form to beat them.

"I am chuffed to bits at what we have achieved in our first season and I’m sure the 17 that are picked will do everyone involved in the Hornets Ladies proud.”

The Hornets Ladies will follow in the footsteps of the men, wearing specially commissioned polo shirts - the same the men wore to Leigh - thanks to sponsorship from Gumpy Maintenance Services.

The ladies will also be playing in their new kit - the same design as the men’s team - which has been kindly sponsored by Peritos, Ladies Only Gym, AAA Pest Control, The Flying Horse and Lifting’s Safety Services.

Club Captain Wayne English and Fiji International Ryan Millard will present the shorts to the girls on Thursday evening, at the Flying Horse, and pass on tips around playing in big games.

Coach travel to both games is still available, please contact the club on 01706 648004 or info@hornetsrugbyleague.com There are two coaches booked to the ladies final and places are filling up fast.

The men’s game on Good Friday kicks off at 2.30pm at the Racecourse Ground in Wrexham, and the ladies final kicks off at 2.00pm at the Big Fellas Stadium, Post Office Road, Featherstone.