Lookers sponsored South Shields Westoe entertain Redcar at Wood Terrace this weekend. With Westoe currently sitting third, this should, on paper, be an easy victory for the home side; however nothing is certain in this league.

Redcar, currently bottom of the league, held Westoe to a draw in their previous encounter and rattled the usually controlled side who tried to force the scores rather than sticking to their game plan and procedures.

A combination of long, looping inaccurate passes and a pack that failed to fire on the day, allowed the Redcar side to beat the form book and claim the draw.

Westoe need to continue with current form, remain patient and create the space before punishing Redcar out wide. A combination of their power up front and dangerous running skills; as shown in their 123 point demolition of Gosforth two weeks ago; will produce the win. They must however ensure that they work for the scores and not assume they will come naturally.

Top try scorer, Sam Gaff, returns at number eight, with Andy Kirton switching to the blind-side. Mark ‘Sparky’ McMahon returns on the wing, with Richard Burrows moving into the centre. The bench sees a welcome return of power-house and newly-wed Rob Scorer. With fire-power all over the side, the Westoe faithful should be in for another cracking performance. The match is sponsored by Stuart Ashman of Hero Healthcare, specialising in medical, sports and veterinary bandaging/taping solutions.

The West Nautical Development team are in the Candy League Final against Mowden Park. Due to be an away fixture, the big thaw may mean that this is switched to Harton’s 3G surface; final decision will be made later in the week.

First Team v Redcar

1. Ryan Lamb
2. James Sant
3. Raymie Elliott
4. John Younghusband
5. Anthony Rumis
6. Andrew Kirton
7. Joe McKenzie
8. Sam Gaff

9. Chris Judson
10. Luke Moffett
11. Mark McMahon
12. Derek Worthington
13. Richard Burrows
14. Jamie Preston
15. Jake Arnold

16. Rob Scorer
17. Graeme Smith
18. Louis Hagan