Mayfield preview

Matt Calland Sam Butterworth and Lewis Sheridan

Mayfield are on the road again on Saturday for their fourth consecutive away game - they will face division one side Featherstone Lions in the semi-final of the NCL Challenge Trophy.

The Lions should not be underestimated, as they are currently fourth in the first division with a realistic chance of promotion at the end of the season. This is a big game for the hosts as they try to show they are capable of living with the best, and a win would be a massive boost to the club.

For Mayfield, this is another in a string of big games, as coach Sam Butterworth said: “We are really looking forward to this game. It will be tough – it always is in Featherstone. They have a dynamic wing/ centre pairing on the right with 27 tries to their credit, but as long as our defence performs we have it in us to snuff out that threat.

“We will once again be taking a young squad but we have complete faith in these lads. The way they have performed recently is an absolute credit to them. Not many go to Siddal and Kells and perform how they have over the last fortnight.

“They have shown no fear and their commitment on the pitch is absolute, so we will be confident going to Featherstone on Saturday. If we play as we know we can, our young side have what it takes to get us through to the final.”

Chairman Simon Howe echoed Butterworth’s sentiments, saying: “We are proud of the efforts of all involved at this great club. Volunteers, players, coaches and supporters alike have all played their part in getting us here today.

"The role played by coaches Matt Calland and Sam Butterworth and the teenagers in the squad cannot be underestimated either.

“Matt and Sam also coach the under 18s where these young lads have come from, so they know them intimately in terms of both their strengths and weaknesses. The faith they have placed in them over the last few weeks has been repaid by their performances on the field.

“For them to come through with a place in the final would be a fitting tribute indeed, so we’re hoping they can do it for themselves, the team and the club.

"I firmly believe that rugby league is ‘the greatest game’ and our aim at Rochdale Mayfield is to make the game accessible to all and our reward is games like this on Saturday.

“Whatever happens, we will go to Featherstone and enjoy ourselves and hopefully be rewarded with a place in the final.”

For any supporters interested in going to the game, there will be a coach setting off at 12.00pm from the Sandbrook, Sandbrook Park. There will be a charge of £5.00 to cover the cost of the bus. There are still a few places left - contact Simon on 07920865106 to reserve aseat.

The NWML side is also on the road again on Saturday - they travel to face Blackpool Scorpions. Both sides are in the bottom half of the table but Mayfield have shown the better form recently, with a particularly strong performance at league leaders Pilks last week.

Like the NCL side, the team has been bolstered by the inclusion of players from the under 18s who have been magnificent. Coaches Dave Harmer and Craig White will travel with a new found confidence on Saturday as they look to bring back two much needed points.

Fixtures 
Saturday 20 August

NCL Cup Semi-Final: Featherstone Lions v Mayfield. Kick-off: 2.30pm
NWML Div Two: Blackpool Scorpions v Mayfield. Kick-off: 2.30pm