It was the old cliche that cost us last week, " we were still on the bus" 20 minutes into the game. We must learn to start games at a much higher intensity if we are to compete against teams like Whitehaven away from home. Conceding 29 points in the first quarter is unforgivable and hopefully we can look to improve how we start games this week as we welcome Upper Eden to Melbourne Avenue.

Like many Cumbrian teams Upper Eden's game is built on a big pack who like to mix it up front. From last year they had a strong rolling maul, so we will be looking to counter act that and stop them at source. They also have an accomplished fly half who isn't afraid get stuck in with the dirty work.

Fleetwood have a couple of unavailabilities this week including Pete Benny and player coach Steve Woodburn who has a calf tear. However, Jamie Moran is welcomed back into the front row and Michael Jackson in the second row following a nasty head injury. Danny Atkin has impressed with the 2nds and deservedly makes his debut on the bench for the 1st team. Karl Bowling gets his first start of the season on the wing after a number of appearances as a replacement in which he has established himself as a first team regular.

There is no doubting Fleetwood's attacking threat but lessons must be learnt. We must ensure we start games better and tighten up around the kick off. If we continue to make these improvements then things can only get better for the Green & Golds.

Squad:

1. Jamie Moran
2. James Lilley
3. Scott Dobbie
4. Michael Jackson
5. Ricky Newton
6. Danny Tomlinson
7. Harrison Lumb
8. Rob Brookfield (Capt)
9. Tom Evans
10. Paul Bamber
11. Karl Bowling
12. Jamie Mayall
13. Tom Wilson
14. Kris Phillips
15. Ali Cheal
16. Danny Atkin
17. Luke WIlson
18. Harry Pilkington

Meet 1330. Numbers 1s post game.