Match Preview

TC return to the windmill ground after a frustrating loss away at 3rd placed Tarleton. TC left the game feeling it was one that they could and should have won. We are all anticipating a backlash on Saturday. Ormskirk have had a tough start to their own league season. They currently sit in 12th place. They will however be full of confidence as they picked up a precious win last week at home to Colne and Nelson.

Despite a few noticeable absentees Thornton name a very strong squad for this Saturdays game. A quick glance at the 2nd team squad sheet will show just how much strength in depth we have at the club and everyone in a 1st team shirt will need to be at their best to keep their places as the 2’s continue to destroy all in their path.

In the pack there is a welcome return for Thorntons powerhouse Simon Hoddinott at loosehead. Simon was sorely missed last week and his inclusion is a huge boost. At hooker Ben Calvert continues and I again hold onto the number 3 shirt. The second row sees a change as Tom Marland replaces 7 for 4 and Ralph Clarke again starts. Ralph is another in excellent form and despite his “joker in the pack” demeanour he continues to be outstanding this season. In the back row Nathan Crane starts at 6 and Toby Holder-Williams at 7. Michael Docherty takes the 8 shirt as Tom Cockcroft is on an expedition to the Isle of Man. Rather luckily for TC, Tom managed to forget to book the tickets for the rest of the lads so I’m thankful for that error. Thanks Tom.

In the backs Vice Captain Clapp comes back in at 9. Kurt Gledhill starts at 10. In the centres its all change as Nick James brings his cultured boot and running game in to the 12 shirt and he partners power and pace in the shape of South African Ryan Haywood. The back 3 is as you were, Matty Rowley starts on the left wing after opening his 1st team account last week with an excellent finish. Club captain Ross Mellor-Clark starts on the other wing. Ross had an excellent game last week. His decision making was spot on and as always he led by example in everything he did. Grant Blackshaw rounds the team up at full back.

The Bench on Saturday is built for power, power and a bit more power. James Gorrie returns to action to cover tighthead. Expect to see the scrum flying forward when this man comes on. He is partnered by Wayne Daws who produced another powerful display off the bench last week. Wayne’s development has been very pleasing over his 1st 12 months with the club. Looking at the players he is keeping out of the 1st team squad is a testament to the work and attitude of the man. Finally James Cunliffe will make his home debut for the 1st team. James was outstanding last week and is very very unlucky to miss out on a starting place. He is fast developing into a hell of a rugby player in both codes.

With 2 games at home and the 3’s just down the road in Preston I’m hoping both the games at the club and the bar at the Ashley will be bouncing. If you’re free, get your wellies on and come down and support the lads.

Low and Hard