Match Preview

After last week’s reversal of their loss to Horden, South Shields Westoe will be looking to repeat the process against Hartlepool Rovers. Rovers beat Westoe earlier in the season in a tight 28-20 encounter in Teesside.

Rovers showed a gritty defence in poor conditions and coupled with a below form Westoe were worthy winners on the day. Westoe seem to have recovered their best form in recent weeks and despite a much changed line-up will be gunning for the full five points on offer.

Haydn Richards comes into the front row for unavailable Raymie Elliott and Alex Wylie starts at open side, allowing the versatile Joe McKenzie to fill in at centre. Chris Judson also comes into the centre, with Sam Hughes dropping to fullback and Jamie Preston starting on the wing.

With half an eye on their Twickenham progress, Westoe will need to ensure they put everything out of their minds and focus on the job in hand. They need a strong fast start as in previous games and must remain patient in attack and concrete in defence.

Kick-off is at 3.00pm, Wood Terrace.

1. Ryan Lamb
2. Haydn Richards
3. Louis Kellett
4. John Younghusband
5. Andrew Kirton
6. Sean Ramsay
7. Alex Wylie
8. Sam Gaff

9 Sam Seymour
10 Andy Sutherland
11 Paul Evans
12 Chris Judson
13 Joe Mckenzie
14 Jamie Preston
15 Sam Hughes

16. Rob Scorer
17. Hamish White
18. TBC