Cleckheaton Team

By Dave Picken - April 16 2004
Cleckheaton Team
Chocky
Two of the most vocal players in Northern rugby will be on the pitch at Brinkburn on Saturday ... note 2.0pm kick off! Wisecracking John Stabler faces up to hard talking Lions legend John Bentley as we once again take on a top of the table side in Cleckheaton.

Bentley brings a side mirrored in his image - lots of talent and lots of aggression plus a little gamesmanship.

We were hammered 51-12 down in the shadow of the M62 with Nick Parker forced to retire after injuring his shoulder ... and Bradley Stovell hasn't been seen since limping out of the game.

Not that we lay down by any means. Chocky found himself unpopular with Mr Bentley who even galloped over to the touchline, where Stabs was patrolling, to give his erstwhile views on our second row. Mr Stabler looked in his pocketbook and reminded his former Police colleague of a few misdemeanours from his own side.

But it looks like Cleckie have slipped a bit and that could be down to the Rugby League season starting up. They went down at Macclesfield the other week followed by an unconvincing win at Aspatria - a team we also should have beaten.

Of course, we are are on the crest of a wave after our deserved victory over third placed Chester. If we play like that and cut down on the penalties we will give the league leaders a game.

Stabs will name his side on Friday with Allan Milne the biggest doubt with his hamstring strain.

Cleckheaton Alex Green, Mark Doherty, John Bentley [capt], Jason Tozer, Michael Piper, Carl Paterson, Gary Smith, Neil Gillan, Steve Bishop, Carl Mason, Richard Wilson, Andrew Wilson, Craig West, Jamie Kaye, Oliver Akroyd.

Reps: Matt Garrety, Chris Willett, Simon Coy