Aireborough begin the 2017/18 season at home to Northallerton, looking to replicate their excellent start to last season. Aireborough won their opening four fixtures last season; a run which started with a hard fought 9-5 victory against Saturday’s opponents in a game heavily affected by the adverse weather conditions.
It was Aireborough’s first victory against the Tractor Boys in two seasons which gives an indication as to the strength of our visitors who are renowned for their strong forward play and up-the-jumper style of rugby. Northallerton later defeated Aire 25-10 toward the end of the season to further increase their dominance over Aire on the results sheet over the past few years.
Coach Si Davies has named a strong 20-man squad for Saturday’s game, with a late call up for utility back Matty Jones after centre Liam Cree’s injury in training on Wednesday.
The pack has both strength and guile and we’re all looking forward to seeing new signing Tom Pendriss on the crash ball. With ‘the fridge’ Adam Jackson side-lined for a number of weeks following a football injury Tom has the opportunity to lay claim to the number 8 position with a strong performance on his debut.
Kick-off is 3pm at Fortress Nunroyd – with a beer and BBQ tent pitch side to feed and quench the thirst of the watching throng of Aire supporters. The weather forecast looks good so please come down and support both the lads and the club.