Sandal RFC were promoted last season as runners up in North One East, beating Northwich in the play off, having previously played in this league back in the 2001/02 season.

They have had a very similar season to us, with eight wins, a draw and eight losses so far and prior to last week’s home defeat at Lymm (15 – 23), they enjoyed an unbeaten February, with wins over Penrith, Middlesbrough and Bradford & Bingley, whilst sharing the points away to Chester.

The corresponding away game, saw us just edge a win (20 – 23), therefore a tough encounter is expected.

After a very decent performance in a loss at runaway leaders Stockport last week (22 – 16), player/coach Pete TAYLOR and assistant coach John NEWTON will be expecting build on that display. The only change to the starting line up is Will Kay at hooker, replacing the unavailable Chris Strong. Ralph Appleby (pictured) returns after injury to occupy a slot on the bench along side Pete Taylor and Charlie Massarella