Otley XV make the short trip up ‘dale to Grassington. The Saracens play Ripon 2nd XV at Cross Green.
As we sit close to each other in the league, twelfth and thirteenth in the league after the first match of the season, Otley will be looking to kick start their season. The dogged spirit they showed in the second half needs to be there for the full 80, without the cohesion errors and penalty count that blighted them in the match against Stourbridge. Wharfedale went down 41-15 away to demoted Macclesfield last week and will be looking to leave their home supporters happy.
Last season saw two great matches that went the way of the home sides, although Otley just squeezed the aggregate points tally by just two points. These matches epitomise the friendship that goes back many years. However, these ties will not stop both sides giving their all, and doubtless friendships will be renewed with ex-Otley players such as Joel Gill, Harry Dunne and Oliver Cicognini in the home side’s line-up, Jack Mackie and Simon Willett having played for Wharfedale in the past.
Otley’s line up sees Freddie Watson returning to the squad after an injury he picked up at Billingham, and Joe Graham slots into his preferred slot of hooker and Brett Mitchell moves up to the second row. Otley have signed Charles ‘Will’ Scholey a tight-head prop from York, who has also played for Harrogate, Newcastle University and York.
The Saracens are playing Ripon Seconds at Cross Green - Kick Off 3pm. Should be a very competitive match. The viewing balcony will be open and free to use, and so if you can’t make the trip up to Grassington why not try the balcony whilst it is sunny and warm (hopefully!)