Match Preview

Injuries and absences are still a concern as Stourbridge travel to West Lancs and face table topping Caldy!

Missing players include the influential Hal Riley, Sam Wilson,Chris Depper, Fred Brooks Jack Samuel, Mike Worthington and Joe Collingham. Exam and work commitments mean that Sam Montieri is not available for travel but will add valuable experience and support to Stourbridge Lions who face Hereford, at home (KO 14:15).

Reece Beddows makes a welcome return on the bench whilst Tim Daly gets another opportunity to prove his worth to the team after a promising 20 minute spell last week.

Caldy have amassed 499 points in their 13/13 100% season but have only managed Try Bonus points in 9 games. Last week they beat Tynedale (A) by 14 - 47 but more notable scores include 68-7 against Scunthorpe and the 62-10 drubbing of our local rivals Luctonians. Perhaps their closest game was away at Wharfedale in the 11-16 victory.

Paton Field is always a difficult place to visit, especially as winter conditions affect the exposed grass pitch. This will be a good test for Stour and the resilience and spirit of a squad that contains some old campaigners yet well balanced by promising young talent.

Saturday's match marks the last game before we turn into the second half of the season and we lie in 9th place. A loss could mean we drop towards the danger zone yet, strangely, a win and the results going our way, could see Stourbridge move into 5th position!!!

Watch this space!