Squad for Derby Game

By Dave Picken - October 22 2004
Squad for Derby Game
Jon Boatman
Dan Boatman could be a surprise inclusion in the West side to take on Rovers in the historic first league meeting between the old rivals.[Friarage 3.00]. Carl Miller has been boxing this week so second row Dan joins brother Jon in the squad. Former junior centre Tony Gamwell may also figure.

The side won't be selected until after fitness tests on a number of key individuals. Tim Sawyer is fit enough to put himself forward, after injuring his shoulder against Westoe, while Allan Milne is travelling over from Rochdale and has a slim chance of being fit.

Brett is also doubtful but Stuart Bennett is likely to be fit after shaking off a nasty cold.

So, with the Stags at Acklam, a squad has been named with fitness tests at Brinkburn before both sides set off for their respective games. The first team squad will be: Carr, Cholmondeley, Sawyer, Phillips, D Boatman, Henderson, C Miller, J Boatman, Tones, Bennett [capt], Gilbraith, Tighe, Wallis, Thomas, Abrahams,P Miller, Hodgson, Hare, Todd, Milne, Moss, Gamwell, Cullinane, Richardson.

With more rain forecast today and tonight, together with strong winds, it promises to be a hard fought affair in the mud. Neither side is setting the league alight, although Rovers put on an improved performance against Driffield in the cup last week, while we gave Westoe a much tougher second half in our last league game.

With a strong wind forecast it could well be that the line-out is the vital area. It's an area where both sides will fancy their chances....