Back then we spent a remarkable 20 minutes in their 22 at the start of the second half without scoring a single point. Inevitably they came back up the pitch and promptly scored a couple of quick tries through their lively backs.

In all we had 70 per cent possession that day but still lost 21-13 and, in many respects, that was a turning point in our season. A turn in the wrong direction, of course.

However, the biggest problem has been in injuries and unavailibility. Getting a settled side out, one which trains at least once a week as a unit, is the minimum requirement in the national leagues and for most of the season the coaches haven't had that opportunbity.

When team selection becomes a matter of numbers, rather than choosing a side through fitness and ability, then you end up in trouble. We actually have almost  80 players registered to play for the first team,  and Peter Hodgson will become the 40th to play for the first team when he steps out against Penrith.

He will bring some experience to the midfield as well as his usual 100 per cent commitment. Coilin Cheslin moves to full back to accommodate Hodgy with Luke Mallinson on the wing.

In the forwards Jonny Boatman is at a wedding so Dan takes the No 8 shirt alongside Sam Miller and Alex Barker.

Penrith will have Anth Carr's brother Glenn in the second row.

West: Colin Cheslin, Luke Mallinson, Andrew Cheslin, Peter Hodgson, Greg Edwards, Stu Waites, Ryan Painter, Ian Pinchen, Andrew Dixon, Adam Coates, Nathan Myers, Andy Robson, Alex Barker, Sam Miller, Dan Boatman. Reps: Jay Corbett, Andrew Rollins, Tom Armstrong.

Penrith: Ed Swale,  Kris Bratton, Mike Hawley, Neil Warnock, Ben Littleton, Steve Wood,   Paul Newton,  Ian McDowell,  James Thornton,  Craig Rumney,  Glenn Carr,   Ryan Johnson,  James Sanderson, Mike Stephens,   Gary Hodgson. Reps: Craig Price, Dan Richardson, Nick Benson.