After last weeks positive showings from both the 1st XV and Saxons its a really pleasure to say we have 2 full sides out again, despite the ongoing challenges with COVID isolations, injuries and general unavailability.

The first XV are off on their travels and visit Winlaton, the last time we won was in the reverse fixture at home where we took all 5 points winning 45 - 17 and we would certainly settle for another win. However, we know this will be another tough test and certainly wont be taking them lightly. Winlaton have had a tough season, like us and have struggled for numbers and player losses to local clubs, they sit 5 points above us but have picked up 3 wins over the season all at home so we know they will be a vastly different proposition.

Sedgie faired well last week, pushing 2nd placed Hartlepool all the way in a frustrating game that we felt we deserved more from, However it was still a good performance and we hope to take that positivity into Saturday.

The Saxons are also in action playing their first home game of the season (Believe it or not), they host Northallerton in a 2pm kick off at the wok

TEAM NEWS

1st XV

Skipper, James Watson misses the game with an injury sustained last week, Andy Shepherd, Lawrence Oliver and Dave Hewitson are all unavailable and Dom Ryan, who has been in exceptional form is also missing from the 1st XV.

We pack down with Graham Brennan and Tom Ducker propping up Seb Wilkins at hooker. Dan Lawson and Pedro Gray are in the second row and the pack is completed by an impressive back row of Massimo Impagliazzo, Will Johnson and Mitch Corney.

Tom Flatters continues at number 9 with Gaz Pratt retaining the 10 shirt. John Pope gets a shot at his favoured inside centre whilst Terry Cook returns to the side after missing a few weeks with work. Out wide Kyle Smith comes in for Andy Shepherd, Ryan Towler and Andy Fife completing the back three.

The finishers sees returns for Andy Broere, Bobby Blackburn and Danny Wolfe who will all have a huge role to play during the game.

Saxons

The Saxons have turned the corner and name a full squad again, Michael Bishop, Neil Hetherington and Keith Corrigan make a poweful front row with Dan Martin and Stu Walton backing them from the 2nd row. The back row sees newcomer Thomas Cramp continue his learning journey and he will have experience campaigners Nick Stringer and Ian Storey to help him through.

Lee Keillor is at scrum half, we are in danger of Dougie Wardle donning the 10 shirt, Rob Wade is a welcome return to us after a period away is at 12 with Stephen Portlock at 13. Jordan Portlock and Jordan Cooksey are out wide and Lewis White is at full back

The finishers are Chris Frater who returns from injury and Dan Machell