Rugby League: Mayfield face Hornets

Rochdale Mayfield

Mayfield get their pre-season under way proper with the toughest of tests as they face Hornets at the Crown Oil Arena on Saturday 3.00pm.

Ian Kershaw from Mayfield said: “This will be a great opportunity for Mayfield, and new coaching team Sam Butterworth and Steve Wood, to see where they are in terms of preparation for the coming season.

“Despite last season being a poor one as far as results were concerned Mayfield players have been picked up by pro clubs in the off season like never before, Paul Brearley and Callum Ogden are trialling at Batley with Brearley in particular impressing a lot of people, Matty Chrimes is at Doncaster and Brandon Wood is at Hornets with a chance of a run out on Saturday.

“All at Mayfield wish these players all the very best for the future while accepting that this will impact on their squad for the new season.

“It’s great for the club to see these players go on and potentially, move up the playing ladder, but these lads will leave a massive hole.

“Sam Butterworth is hopeful that he has the players to step into the breach and that is what Saturday’s game is about.

“It’s a tough ask for any amateur club to go up against a pro team, but Mayfield are relishing the chance to measure their progress.

“This is a friendly and the coaching team will use it as such, with a very young squad they will be moving players about and trying out new combinations to see what works and what doesn't.

“They will be playing for the Steve Gartland Trophy, in honour of local rugby legend 'Garty' who played for both clubs before his death in 2016.

“The game will also raise funds for the Steve Gartland Foundation which raises money for local good causes.”