Harlequins RL head coach Brian McDermott has named an almost full strength squad for tomorrow’s annual pre-season friendly against National League Two side London Skolars. In previous years the match has seen Quins field more speculative sides based around academy youngsters, fringe players and a few first team core players looking to develop match fitness after injury, but the indications are that McDermott will be looking to make full us of this match, the only full fledged trial scheduled before the season opening against Wigan Warriors on February 9th.
The main absentees from the Quins line-up are utility back Chris Melling who has suffered a reoccurrence of the groin injury that disrupted the later stages of last season, new signing Gareth Haggerty who is not yet match fit following a shoulder injury and fringe player David Tootill who is recovering from a knee reconstruction. Fans will however get a chance to see some rising stars from the senior academy set-up, including Lamont Bryan and Will Sharp who have been promoted to the first team squad for 2008.
The Skolars have yet to name a squad for the match, but will be looking to raise a credible challenge to a side sitting two leagues above them. The North London based side recorded their best ever season in 2007, ironically under the guidance of Latham Tawhai who has since crossed London to join Quins as an assistant to Brian McDermott. New head coach Tony Benson will be hoping his charges can pick up where they left off last season, with a strong performance against Quins providing a launch pad into their forthcoming Northern Rail Cup campaign.
Both clubs hope to use the event as a springboard for attracting corporate sponsorships, with Quins in particular yet to confirm a main sponsor for the new Super League season, and last season’s sponsor Sports Cafe have recently entered administration. Both the timing and venue of the match, a lunch time kick off at Moorgate’s Royal Artillery Gardens, are aimed squarely at the many financial institutions close by. Sponsorship for the game itself has already been attracted from a number of finance sector companies, who will be hosting investor seminars before the game. Tellingly all corporate hospitality for the event sold out well before the general match tickets.
Showing posts with label Match Preview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Match Preview. Show all posts
Monday, 21 January 2008
Friday, 24 August 2007
Challenge Cup Final returns to spiritual home
The Rugby League Challenge Cup returns to its spiritual home Wembley Stadium tomorrow afternoon as holders St Helens take on first time finalist Les Catalans Dragons. The match will be the first time rugby league has been played at the new stadium, and brings to a close a break of eight years since the last final took place at the old stadium back in 1999.
This final poses a genuine enigma, the Catalans being the first non-British side to reach the final since it was first contested in 1897. The participation of the French team is even more remarkable given that the club is in only its second season in the top flight Super League competition, and the fact that it only came into existence in 2001 following the merger of Perpignan club sides XIII Catalan and Saint Estève.
The other finalists St Helens have a far more illustrious track record in the competition they won at Twickenham last year; the Saints have lifted the trophy ten times in nineteen previous appearances since they lost the inaugural final to Batley in 1897. St Helens have undoubtedly been the standout team of the Super League era, although whilst they currently top the league table on points difference above Leeds Rhinos they are a side that has show far more vulnerability than the one that swept all before them last season.
The interest in the game’s return to Wembley has resulted in an effective sell-out, with the only issue being the possible take-up of 15,000 Club Wembley seats that have been pre-sold to mainly corporate investors for the next ten year. The logistics of transporting fans from a team in the South of France to North London mean that the Catalans supporters making the journey will be heavily outnumbered by their counterparts from Lancashire, but in true Challenge Cup style the French side are likely to have the lion’s share of the neutral spectators to boost their voices.
On the injury front the Catalans enter the game hoping that former Queensland State of Origin representative Casey McGuire will be fit following a torn pectoral muscle, whilst prop forward Mathieu Griffi may also be back following a layoff. Skipper Jerome Guisset will also return having been rested in last weekend’s defeat at Warrington. The Saints only notable absence is long-term victim Paul Sculthorpe, the former Great Britain captain, with standoff Leon Pryce making his return from a three match ban.
A series of intriguing clashes are expected right across the pitch; the Catalans are noted for their big, physical forward pack, ably led by the vastly experienced Guisset. Former Kiwi prop Alex Chan provides an intimidating presence in the front row, whilst ex-Kangaroo back-row Jason Croker has the experience and all round game to keep the pack ticking over. St Helens will be led by veteran hooker Keiron Cunningham, the sole survivor of Saints 1996 visit to Wembley, and his young apprentice James Roby. Rugged prop Nick Fozzard will be desperate to make an impression having been left out last year, whilst Samoan impact forward Maurie Fa'asavalu is a fearsome weapon to unleash on a tiring defence.
In the backs St Helens arguably have the edge with a back five packed with international experience, notably ex-Kangaroo centre Matt Gidley and current Great Britain fullback Paul Wellens, the reigning Man of Steel. The Dragons standout back is centre Adam Mogg, a State of Origin winner last year with Queensland and one of the leading contenders for this season’s Man of Steel.
But the clash predicted to determine the outcome is between the midfield generals Sean Long and Stacey Jones. The quicksilver Long has already secured his place in Challenge Cup history with a record three Lance Todd Trophy awards, the best British scrumhalf of his generation, he remains a controversial figure within the game due to his erratic contributions to the international scene and a betting scandal three years ago. In contrast Stacey Jones is arguably the second best scrumhalf of the past decade, behind only the great Andrew Johns, the Kiwi legend is the consummate strategist.
Les Catalans Dragons will go into their inaugural final as clear underdogs; with a warm afternoon forecasted it will requite a huge effort to combat the champagne football of St Helens across the wide open spaces of Wembley. So-called “expansion” clubs (it is debateable whether a club from the French rugby league heartlands warrants such a tag) have a patchy record in the show piece event, London Broncos fell to the final’s heaviest ever defeat against Leeds in 1999, but the previous year Sheffield Eagles produced the competitions biggest ever upset downing massive favourites Wigan.
Whatever the result is it is to be hoped that the final produces a match befitting the return of rugby league’s “grand day out in the sun” to its spiritual home.
This final poses a genuine enigma, the Catalans being the first non-British side to reach the final since it was first contested in 1897. The participation of the French team is even more remarkable given that the club is in only its second season in the top flight Super League competition, and the fact that it only came into existence in 2001 following the merger of Perpignan club sides XIII Catalan and Saint Estève.
The other finalists St Helens have a far more illustrious track record in the competition they won at Twickenham last year; the Saints have lifted the trophy ten times in nineteen previous appearances since they lost the inaugural final to Batley in 1897. St Helens have undoubtedly been the standout team of the Super League era, although whilst they currently top the league table on points difference above Leeds Rhinos they are a side that has show far more vulnerability than the one that swept all before them last season.
The interest in the game’s return to Wembley has resulted in an effective sell-out, with the only issue being the possible take-up of 15,000 Club Wembley seats that have been pre-sold to mainly corporate investors for the next ten year. The logistics of transporting fans from a team in the South of France to North London mean that the Catalans supporters making the journey will be heavily outnumbered by their counterparts from Lancashire, but in true Challenge Cup style the French side are likely to have the lion’s share of the neutral spectators to boost their voices.
On the injury front the Catalans enter the game hoping that former Queensland State of Origin representative Casey McGuire will be fit following a torn pectoral muscle, whilst prop forward Mathieu Griffi may also be back following a layoff. Skipper Jerome Guisset will also return having been rested in last weekend’s defeat at Warrington. The Saints only notable absence is long-term victim Paul Sculthorpe, the former Great Britain captain, with standoff Leon Pryce making his return from a three match ban.
A series of intriguing clashes are expected right across the pitch; the Catalans are noted for their big, physical forward pack, ably led by the vastly experienced Guisset. Former Kiwi prop Alex Chan provides an intimidating presence in the front row, whilst ex-Kangaroo back-row Jason Croker has the experience and all round game to keep the pack ticking over. St Helens will be led by veteran hooker Keiron Cunningham, the sole survivor of Saints 1996 visit to Wembley, and his young apprentice James Roby. Rugged prop Nick Fozzard will be desperate to make an impression having been left out last year, whilst Samoan impact forward Maurie Fa'asavalu is a fearsome weapon to unleash on a tiring defence.
In the backs St Helens arguably have the edge with a back five packed with international experience, notably ex-Kangaroo centre Matt Gidley and current Great Britain fullback Paul Wellens, the reigning Man of Steel. The Dragons standout back is centre Adam Mogg, a State of Origin winner last year with Queensland and one of the leading contenders for this season’s Man of Steel.
But the clash predicted to determine the outcome is between the midfield generals Sean Long and Stacey Jones. The quicksilver Long has already secured his place in Challenge Cup history with a record three Lance Todd Trophy awards, the best British scrumhalf of his generation, he remains a controversial figure within the game due to his erratic contributions to the international scene and a betting scandal three years ago. In contrast Stacey Jones is arguably the second best scrumhalf of the past decade, behind only the great Andrew Johns, the Kiwi legend is the consummate strategist.
Les Catalans Dragons will go into their inaugural final as clear underdogs; with a warm afternoon forecasted it will requite a huge effort to combat the champagne football of St Helens across the wide open spaces of Wembley. So-called “expansion” clubs (it is debateable whether a club from the French rugby league heartlands warrants such a tag) have a patchy record in the show piece event, London Broncos fell to the final’s heaviest ever defeat against Leeds in 1999, but the previous year Sheffield Eagles produced the competitions biggest ever upset downing massive favourites Wigan.
Whatever the result is it is to be hoped that the final produces a match befitting the return of rugby league’s “grand day out in the sun” to its spiritual home.
Skolars kick-off weekend of rugby league
London Skolars this evening look to kick-off a weekend of rugby league in London when they take on York at New River this evening. The Skolars who have been in a rich vein of form lately will be looking to take the points needed to keep alive their National League Two playoff hopes.
Whilst attention may be diverted away from New River tomorrow for the showpiece Challenge Cup Final Sunday will see the return of the annual Middlesex 9s competition, complete with real ale festival.
For more information about tonight’s match, or the Middlesex 9s, click here.
Whilst attention may be diverted away from New River tomorrow for the showpiece Challenge Cup Final Sunday will see the return of the annual Middlesex 9s competition, complete with real ale festival.
For more information about tonight’s match, or the Middlesex 9s, click here.
Saturday, 18 August 2007
Double-header at Twickenham Stoop
Rugby league fans are looking forward to a feast of rugby league at The Stoop this afternoon, as St Albans Centurions on South London Storm in the Final of the Rugby League Conference South at 12:40 pm, followed by the Super League game between Harlequins RL and Wigan Warriors at 3:00 pm.
St Albans who finished divisional minor premiers in the RLC Premier South will be slight favourites to overturn reigning champions South London, but a tight game is likely. The Centurions have had several weeks rest since booking their place in the final so should be injury free, if not a little ring rusty. In contrast the Storm only booked their place in the final last week with a victory over third placed London Skolars II on a baking hot afternoon at Storm Park.
In the Super League game both Quins and the Warriors will be desperate to boost their chances of a playoff place with a victory, although both sides are mathematically safe from the drop following Salford’s loss last night, both know that dropped points will be a serious blow to making the top six.
Quins continued their re-signing spree this week, with hooker Chad Randall and loose forward Henry Paul both extending their stay in the capital. On a less positive note it appears that stalwart centre Paul Sykes, the longest serving player at the club, is returning to former club Bradford at the end of the season due to family commitments.
The Quins injury problems show no sign of improving with prop Karl Temata ruled out, whilst Sykes also misses out on compassionate grounds. Youngsters Tony Clubb and Stephen Bannister come back into a side that has lost its last four league games. Wigan in contrast appears to have a virtually full strength squad.
St Albans who finished divisional minor premiers in the RLC Premier South will be slight favourites to overturn reigning champions South London, but a tight game is likely. The Centurions have had several weeks rest since booking their place in the final so should be injury free, if not a little ring rusty. In contrast the Storm only booked their place in the final last week with a victory over third placed London Skolars II on a baking hot afternoon at Storm Park.
In the Super League game both Quins and the Warriors will be desperate to boost their chances of a playoff place with a victory, although both sides are mathematically safe from the drop following Salford’s loss last night, both know that dropped points will be a serious blow to making the top six.
Quins continued their re-signing spree this week, with hooker Chad Randall and loose forward Henry Paul both extending their stay in the capital. On a less positive note it appears that stalwart centre Paul Sykes, the longest serving player at the club, is returning to former club Bradford at the end of the season due to family commitments.
The Quins injury problems show no sign of improving with prop Karl Temata ruled out, whilst Sykes also misses out on compassionate grounds. Youngsters Tony Clubb and Stephen Bannister come back into a side that has lost its last four league games. Wigan in contrast appears to have a virtually full strength squad.
Sunday, 12 August 2007
Wakefield Vs Harlequins Preview
Harlequins RL go into tonight’s clash with Wakefield Trinity Wildcats knowing that winner will see themselves pushed back into the top six and closer to a coveted playoff spot.
In recent weeks the Quins bandwagon appears to have lost its way, suffering comprehensive defeats against Huddersfield and Leeds as a horrendous run of injuries has taken its toll on Brian McDermott’s already limited squad. The return of influential captain Rob Purdham last week wasn’t enough to halt a rampant Rhinos side, but fans will be hoping he can spark some inspiration against the Wildcats.
The news that wingers Rikki Sheriffe and Matt Gafa and forwards Karl Temata and Jon Grayshon have re-signed for next season has been welcomed by fans, but is tempered by the decision of warhorse second-row Lee Hopkins to retire at the end of the season. All five players have been important in shouldering the burden of the injury crisis.
Wakefield go into the game on the back of a defeat against Bradford, an early season run of form eventually turned patchy and when the two sides met at The Stoop back in April the result was a draw. Coach John Kear has rebuilt much of his side this season, converting the Wildcats from a side heavily reliant of imports to one that has made greater use of home grown players and has consequently seen them lift from a side that only beat the drop on the final game of last season to one challenging for the playoffs.
The game will be a big challenge for the Quins, but if they are to be serious challengers for the playoffs, and to prove to Chairman Ian Lenagan who has been linked to a bid for the Wigan Warriors that the club is moving forward, it’s one they need to win.
In recent weeks the Quins bandwagon appears to have lost its way, suffering comprehensive defeats against Huddersfield and Leeds as a horrendous run of injuries has taken its toll on Brian McDermott’s already limited squad. The return of influential captain Rob Purdham last week wasn’t enough to halt a rampant Rhinos side, but fans will be hoping he can spark some inspiration against the Wildcats.
The news that wingers Rikki Sheriffe and Matt Gafa and forwards Karl Temata and Jon Grayshon have re-signed for next season has been welcomed by fans, but is tempered by the decision of warhorse second-row Lee Hopkins to retire at the end of the season. All five players have been important in shouldering the burden of the injury crisis.
Wakefield go into the game on the back of a defeat against Bradford, an early season run of form eventually turned patchy and when the two sides met at The Stoop back in April the result was a draw. Coach John Kear has rebuilt much of his side this season, converting the Wildcats from a side heavily reliant of imports to one that has made greater use of home grown players and has consequently seen them lift from a side that only beat the drop on the final game of last season to one challenging for the playoffs.
The game will be a big challenge for the Quins, but if they are to be serious challengers for the playoffs, and to prove to Chairman Ian Lenagan who has been linked to a bid for the Wigan Warriors that the club is moving forward, it’s one they need to win.
Wednesday, 8 August 2007
Storm awaits Skolars
The results of last weekend’s RLC Premier games between South London Storm and Kingston Warriors (see here for report) and Kent Ravens and London Skolars II saw the Strom confirm home advantage for this weekend’s semi-final clash with Skolars.
Reigning RLC champions South London Storm are likely to be marginal favourites for the game given home advantage, but only finished above Skolars on points difference in the regular rounds. The Storm have found life harder in this year’s competition following their all conquering run in 2006, the departure of head coach to Rob Powell to the assistant coach position at Harlequins RL and the loss of several influential players including Tani Kingi, Mark Nesbitt, Andy Hames and Todd Brandon, weakening the side.
In contrast to the Storm’s own internal challenges 2007 also proved to be a landmark year in competitiveness of the RLC Premier South, with the decision of St Albans Centurions to drop down from last season’s National League Three competition giving the division a new powerhouse club.
London Skolars II, who previously competed as the Skolars development side under the moniker Haringey Hornets, also seem to have benefited from closer links to their senior side. Many of the players currently playing in the RLC Premier side have significant experience playing and National League Two level.
Storm vs Skolars will kick-off at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday 11th at Storm Park, Thornton Heath, see here for more details.
Reigning RLC champions South London Storm are likely to be marginal favourites for the game given home advantage, but only finished above Skolars on points difference in the regular rounds. The Storm have found life harder in this year’s competition following their all conquering run in 2006, the departure of head coach to Rob Powell to the assistant coach position at Harlequins RL and the loss of several influential players including Tani Kingi, Mark Nesbitt, Andy Hames and Todd Brandon, weakening the side.
In contrast to the Storm’s own internal challenges 2007 also proved to be a landmark year in competitiveness of the RLC Premier South, with the decision of St Albans Centurions to drop down from last season’s National League Three competition giving the division a new powerhouse club.
London Skolars II, who previously competed as the Skolars development side under the moniker Haringey Hornets, also seem to have benefited from closer links to their senior side. Many of the players currently playing in the RLC Premier side have significant experience playing and National League Two level.
Storm vs Skolars will kick-off at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday 11th at Storm Park, Thornton Heath, see here for more details.
Tuesday, 31 July 2007
Ravens ready to roost at Princes Park
The fans, players and administrators of Kent Ravens Rugby League Club are counting down the hours to the biggest event in the club’s short history, their inaugural match at the new Princes Park stadium in Dartford. The move to the stadium, which will be shared with Dartford Football Club, will highlight the remarkable progress the Ravens have made since forming in 2004.
Initially based in nearby Eltham, the men’s first team have worked their way up through the local amateur ranks, from the London League in 2004 to the Rugby League Conference Regional in 2006 and the Rugby League Conference Premier in 2007. The progress hasn’t only been limited to the men’s open age squad, a successful youth set-up has been developing whilst the club also boasts one of the south’s best women’s outfit.
Older rugby league fans will be aware of the code’s patchy history in Kent, most notably the short lived Kent Invicta club of the early 1980’s. Several amateur clubs have at various points left their mark, albeit many temporarily, on the history of rugby league in the area, but it is the Ravens who have hopefully laid the foundations for more substantial development.
This is not to say it’s all been plain sailing for the Ravens, the step up to the RLC Premier has been a big ask for the club. The southern division of the RLC Premier is arguably the toughest of all the regional divisions, a sign of the growing strength of amateur rugby league in the south of England. The Ravens currently sit bottom of the division and on Friday night face a London Skolars RLC Premier side hoping to leapfrog reigning champions South London Storm into second place and guarantee home advantage in the semi-final playoff against the Storm.
An upset against the Skolars would no doubt be the icing on the cake for the Ravens and most of the unprecedented 500 fans that have already bought tickets for the match, but win or loss the future is looking good for the Kent outfit.
* Tickets for the game priced at £5 will be available on the gate, for directions and ground details click here for the Kent Ravens official site.
Initially based in nearby Eltham, the men’s first team have worked their way up through the local amateur ranks, from the London League in 2004 to the Rugby League Conference Regional in 2006 and the Rugby League Conference Premier in 2007. The progress hasn’t only been limited to the men’s open age squad, a successful youth set-up has been developing whilst the club also boasts one of the south’s best women’s outfit.
Older rugby league fans will be aware of the code’s patchy history in Kent, most notably the short lived Kent Invicta club of the early 1980’s. Several amateur clubs have at various points left their mark, albeit many temporarily, on the history of rugby league in the area, but it is the Ravens who have hopefully laid the foundations for more substantial development.
This is not to say it’s all been plain sailing for the Ravens, the step up to the RLC Premier has been a big ask for the club. The southern division of the RLC Premier is arguably the toughest of all the regional divisions, a sign of the growing strength of amateur rugby league in the south of England. The Ravens currently sit bottom of the division and on Friday night face a London Skolars RLC Premier side hoping to leapfrog reigning champions South London Storm into second place and guarantee home advantage in the semi-final playoff against the Storm.
An upset against the Skolars would no doubt be the icing on the cake for the Ravens and most of the unprecedented 500 fans that have already bought tickets for the match, but win or loss the future is looking good for the Kent outfit.
* Tickets for the game priced at £5 will be available on the gate, for directions and ground details click here for the Kent Ravens official site.
Friday, 29 June 2007
Skolars hope to teach Featherstone a lesson
London Skolars head to Featherstone Rovers on Sunday riding the crest of a three match winning streak, their best return in the professional leagues. However, the match will be a big ask for the men from North London, with Rovers who are currently top of National League Two dispatching them comfortably during their visit to the capital early last month.
Match details including directions can be found here on the Featherstone Rovers site.
In other news the Skolars have announced the return of a popular hospitality event before their next home game against the Keighley Cougars on Saturday 14th July. Details can be found here.
Match details including directions can be found here on the Featherstone Rovers site.
In other news the Skolars have announced the return of a popular hospitality event before their next home game against the Keighley Cougars on Saturday 14th July. Details can be found here.
Quins return to The Stoop
Quins RL return to The Stoop tomorrow for the first time in almost a month, to play Hull KR. In between the last home game the side suffered defeats away at Wigan in the Challenge Cup and Salford away in Super League, but fullback Chris Melling and centre Paul Sykes both made promising debuts in the mid-season Great Britain test match against France last Friday in Leeds.
Opponents Hull KR are experiencing a tough time at the moment, after some good early season results they are finding their first season in Super League a big challenge and are only one point above bottom club Salford. By comparison Quins have maintained a place in the top six in recent weeks and a home win would retain that position.
Despite the arrival of highly rated standoff or loose forward Paul Cooke from cross city rivals Hull FC the Robins have struggled in recent fixtures losing their last three league games, including a 40 – 0 blow out against champions St Helens in the last round. However, there is a danger that the Hull KR pack which features experienced forwards such as Michael Vella, Danny Ward and Mark O’Neill, may outmuscle an under-strength Quins pack.
Quins will be without GB debutant Melling, who picked up a groin strain last weekend, whilst in the halves Danny Orr is also injured; this may see Jon Wells moved to fullback where he’s played competently in the past, with Mark McLinden partnering Scott Hill in the halves. Up front Quins are looking most threadbare, prop David Mills is out with a reported hand injury joining long-term absentee Daniel Heckenberg, but youngster Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook is back after a spell on the treatment table. At the back of the pack influential captain Rob Purdham will miss the rest of the season, but the return of hardworking back-rower Henry Paul should mitigate some of the loss.
Despite the far from ideal situation on the injury front, and forecasted rain which may suit a forward based game, coach Brian McDermott will be quietly confident of a home win. Tickets can still be purchased online or over the phone for collection tomorrow, but fans travelling to the game by car should be aware that the Rosebine car park will be close due to an event at the international stadium.
Opponents Hull KR are experiencing a tough time at the moment, after some good early season results they are finding their first season in Super League a big challenge and are only one point above bottom club Salford. By comparison Quins have maintained a place in the top six in recent weeks and a home win would retain that position.
Despite the arrival of highly rated standoff or loose forward Paul Cooke from cross city rivals Hull FC the Robins have struggled in recent fixtures losing their last three league games, including a 40 – 0 blow out against champions St Helens in the last round. However, there is a danger that the Hull KR pack which features experienced forwards such as Michael Vella, Danny Ward and Mark O’Neill, may outmuscle an under-strength Quins pack.
Quins will be without GB debutant Melling, who picked up a groin strain last weekend, whilst in the halves Danny Orr is also injured; this may see Jon Wells moved to fullback where he’s played competently in the past, with Mark McLinden partnering Scott Hill in the halves. Up front Quins are looking most threadbare, prop David Mills is out with a reported hand injury joining long-term absentee Daniel Heckenberg, but youngster Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook is back after a spell on the treatment table. At the back of the pack influential captain Rob Purdham will miss the rest of the season, but the return of hardworking back-rower Henry Paul should mitigate some of the loss.
Despite the far from ideal situation on the injury front, and forecasted rain which may suit a forward based game, coach Brian McDermott will be quietly confident of a home win. Tickets can still be purchased online or over the phone for collection tomorrow, but fans travelling to the game by car should be aware that the Rosebine car park will be close due to an event at the international stadium.
Friday, 25 May 2007
Feast of Rugby League planned at New River
Tomorrow will see a full day of rugby league action at New River Stadium in Tottenham as London Skolars reserve grade take on reigning champions South London Storm in the RLC Premier, followed by the first grade team who entertain Oldham Roughyeds in a National League Two fixture.
The RLC Premier clash presents an intriguing match-up with both sides sharing joint top spot on the divisional ladder, with both unbeaten after four games. The Storm, who swept all before them last season are facing up to a much tougher prospect the season and were lucky to scrape past West London Sharks last weekend.
In the National League Two game Skolars will be buoyed by their draw against Keighley Cougars last weekend which saw them end a horrendous run of defeats and also lifted them above Gateshead Thunder into tenth place.
The action will start from 11:00 with a full programme of junior fixtures; Skolars A versus South London kicks off at 12:45, with Skolars versus Oldham following at 15:00.
More information is available here.
The RLC Premier clash presents an intriguing match-up with both sides sharing joint top spot on the divisional ladder, with both unbeaten after four games. The Storm, who swept all before them last season are facing up to a much tougher prospect the season and were lucky to scrape past West London Sharks last weekend.
In the National League Two game Skolars will be buoyed by their draw against Keighley Cougars last weekend which saw them end a horrendous run of defeats and also lifted them above Gateshead Thunder into tenth place.
The action will start from 11:00 with a full programme of junior fixtures; Skolars A versus South London kicks off at 12:45, with Skolars versus Oldham following at 15:00.
More information is available here.
Quins optimism faces Odsal test
Quins RL go into Sunday’s away game against Bradford Bulls with confidence riding high on the back of an impressive performance against Warrington Wolves. The Bulls however are likely to pose a more significant threat to their 100% record in May so far.
Joe Mbu joins the match squad following his recent return to the club, whilst Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook also makes the twenty man squad but must remain doubtful having missed the last three games. Star player Scott Hill remains on the injury list as does influential back rower Henry Paul. As a result Mark McLinden and Danny Orr are likely to continue as the halves combination which linked up well against the Wolves last weekend.
Bradford will be missing injury victims Shontayne Hape, Chris Feather, Jamie Langley and Matt Cook, along with aggressive hooker Terry Newton who is suspended. However they retain plenty of star quality throughout the side with Iestyn Harris and Paul Decaon forming one of the UK’s best halves combinations. Ian Henderson provides capable distribution from dummy half whilst Lesley Vainikolo remains one of the most feared strike players in the league despite recent injury concerns.
In recent years the Bulls have gained a reputation for steamrollering opposition with a big pack typified by the likes of Joe Vagana, Andy Lynch and the injured Feather. They also have some hard working all round forwards in Glen Morrison and former Kangaroo Chris McKenna, with Kiwi international David Solomona providing a key attacking threat with damaging runs out wide and one of the best offloading games in rugby league.
The Bulls who currently lie in third place have surprised many this season, having been written off as serious contenders in some quarters. When the sides met at The Stoop in March Bradford were made to work hard for their win but injuries have bitten deeply recently and they were played off the park by Huddersfield Giants last weekend. Quins head coach Brian McDermott himself a former Odsal favourite will be well aware of the threats and weaknesses of the Bulls but will be justifiably hopeful of a victory given his side’s current form.
Joe Mbu joins the match squad following his recent return to the club, whilst Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook also makes the twenty man squad but must remain doubtful having missed the last three games. Star player Scott Hill remains on the injury list as does influential back rower Henry Paul. As a result Mark McLinden and Danny Orr are likely to continue as the halves combination which linked up well against the Wolves last weekend.
Bradford will be missing injury victims Shontayne Hape, Chris Feather, Jamie Langley and Matt Cook, along with aggressive hooker Terry Newton who is suspended. However they retain plenty of star quality throughout the side with Iestyn Harris and Paul Decaon forming one of the UK’s best halves combinations. Ian Henderson provides capable distribution from dummy half whilst Lesley Vainikolo remains one of the most feared strike players in the league despite recent injury concerns.
In recent years the Bulls have gained a reputation for steamrollering opposition with a big pack typified by the likes of Joe Vagana, Andy Lynch and the injured Feather. They also have some hard working all round forwards in Glen Morrison and former Kangaroo Chris McKenna, with Kiwi international David Solomona providing a key attacking threat with damaging runs out wide and one of the best offloading games in rugby league.
The Bulls who currently lie in third place have surprised many this season, having been written off as serious contenders in some quarters. When the sides met at The Stoop in March Bradford were made to work hard for their win but injuries have bitten deeply recently and they were played off the park by Huddersfield Giants last weekend. Quins head coach Brian McDermott himself a former Odsal favourite will be well aware of the threats and weaknesses of the Bulls but will be justifiably hopeful of a victory given his side’s current form.
Friday, 18 May 2007
Skolars go Cougar hunting
London Skolars face a trip to West Yorkshire on Sunday to confront a Keighley Cougars side two places above them on the National League Two ladder.
The cougars who boast a former Super League halfback amongst their ranks in player/coach Barry Eaton will have been boosted by a win against Blackpool Panthers in the last round and go into the game as favourites against a London side that has yet to pick up a win this season despite some very solid performances.
The game kicks off 3pm at Cougar Park, directions can be found here.
The cougars who boast a former Super League halfback amongst their ranks in player/coach Barry Eaton will have been boosted by a win against Blackpool Panthers in the last round and go into the game as favourites against a London side that has yet to pick up a win this season despite some very solid performances.
The game kicks off 3pm at Cougar Park, directions can be found here.
Quins face the Wire
Quins RL go into tomorrow’s away match against an erratic Warrington Wolves side on the back of a mini injury crisis. Star players Scott Hill and Henry Paul will both miss the game, as will young prop Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook, whilst former Kangaroo Richard Villasanti is still yet to make his first grade debut.
Mark McLinden is expected to start at scrumhalf with Danny Orr at standoff, skipper Rob Purdham is likely to slot in to the loose forward slot, with Chris Melling at fullback. Up front Karl Temata and Daniel Heckenberg will probably lead the pack, with David Mills and Jon Grayshon coming off the bench.
Warrington, who won 12 – 19 at The Stoop back in March, are themselves just getting over their own injury crisis and will welcome back prop Paul Wood although standoff Chris Bridge and hooker/halve Michael Sullivan remain on the injured list.
The two sides both go into the game having won their last two games (one Super League and one Challenge Cup) but prior to that Warrington had a poor run of four Super League defeats at the height of their injury crisis.
The key figures in the Warrington side will be mercurial skipper Lee Briers, former St Helens and Kiwi international back rower Vinnie Anderson, and Great Britain internationals Paul Johnson and Martin Gleeson who provide one of the most balanced centre pairings in the league.
The game will be a big ask for the Quins, but a win is likely to cement their place in the top six.
Mark McLinden is expected to start at scrumhalf with Danny Orr at standoff, skipper Rob Purdham is likely to slot in to the loose forward slot, with Chris Melling at fullback. Up front Karl Temata and Daniel Heckenberg will probably lead the pack, with David Mills and Jon Grayshon coming off the bench.
Warrington, who won 12 – 19 at The Stoop back in March, are themselves just getting over their own injury crisis and will welcome back prop Paul Wood although standoff Chris Bridge and hooker/halve Michael Sullivan remain on the injured list.
The two sides both go into the game having won their last two games (one Super League and one Challenge Cup) but prior to that Warrington had a poor run of four Super League defeats at the height of their injury crisis.
The key figures in the Warrington side will be mercurial skipper Lee Briers, former St Helens and Kiwi international back rower Vinnie Anderson, and Great Britain internationals Paul Johnson and Martin Gleeson who provide one of the most balanced centre pairings in the league.
The game will be a big ask for the Quins, but a win is likely to cement their place in the top six.
Wests Vs Souths double header
West London Sharks will take on South London Storm at home tomorrow seeking revenge for the heavy defeat they suffered on the opening day of the RLC Premier.
Both sides will be fielding their first and second grade sides in a double header London derby, with the second teams kicking off at 1pm and the first team kicking off at 2.30pm.
The games are being played at Grasshoppers in West London, click here for directions.
Both sides will be fielding their first and second grade sides in a double header London derby, with the second teams kicking off at 1pm and the first team kicking off at 2.30pm.
The games are being played at Grasshoppers in West London, click here for directions.
Friday, 4 May 2007
Quins look to find Millennium Magic
Quins RL go into tomorrow’s Millennium Magic game against Catalans Dragons on the back of some shaky results against Huddersfield and St Helens, with rumours of disquiet coming from the camp.
The St Helens game saw Paul Sykes, one of the sides most dependable players and a firm fans favourite inexplicably dropped, whilst Lee Hopkins a cornerstone of the Quins defence was briefly substituted for what appeared to be a petty form of disciplinary action after giving away a couple of penalties (one of which was wholly undeserved), prompting justifiable indignation from Hopkins.
The fans are beginning to lose patience with the signing of Richard Villasanti from Cronulla after the ex-Kangaroo forward has shown limited development towards a first team debut following knee surgery in the close season. The absence of the “Gorilla” is particularly sensitive because of current injury problems surrounding the Quins pack with props David Mills, Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook missing and Daniel Heckenberg doubtful for Cardiff. When combined with the continued absence of the settling presence of loose forward Henry Paul the Quins forward line does begin to look somewhat vulnerable.
In the backs winger Matt Gafa may return from injury, with the desperately missed Sykes hopefully joining him at centre. Halves Scott Hill and Danny Orr will be looking for massive improvement on the second half showing against St Helens when the side looked disorganised and completely directionless.
Another major concern is the nomination of Warrington referee Phil Bentham, whose previous charges of Quins games this season have been controversially inconsistent to the extent that suspicions of anti-London parochialism have been raised amongst some fans.
The Dragons face their own injury problems with Grégory Mounis and Jamal Fakir both missing, whilst the injury to Dimitri Pelo against Leeds last weekend is offset by the return of Justin Murphy to the match squad. Catalans have won just one from four previous Super League meetings with the Quins and will be hoping to take advantage of their opponent’s current poor form to address that record.
The St Helens game saw Paul Sykes, one of the sides most dependable players and a firm fans favourite inexplicably dropped, whilst Lee Hopkins a cornerstone of the Quins defence was briefly substituted for what appeared to be a petty form of disciplinary action after giving away a couple of penalties (one of which was wholly undeserved), prompting justifiable indignation from Hopkins.
The fans are beginning to lose patience with the signing of Richard Villasanti from Cronulla after the ex-Kangaroo forward has shown limited development towards a first team debut following knee surgery in the close season. The absence of the “Gorilla” is particularly sensitive because of current injury problems surrounding the Quins pack with props David Mills, Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook missing and Daniel Heckenberg doubtful for Cardiff. When combined with the continued absence of the settling presence of loose forward Henry Paul the Quins forward line does begin to look somewhat vulnerable.
In the backs winger Matt Gafa may return from injury, with the desperately missed Sykes hopefully joining him at centre. Halves Scott Hill and Danny Orr will be looking for massive improvement on the second half showing against St Helens when the side looked disorganised and completely directionless.
Another major concern is the nomination of Warrington referee Phil Bentham, whose previous charges of Quins games this season have been controversially inconsistent to the extent that suspicions of anti-London parochialism have been raised amongst some fans.
The Dragons face their own injury problems with Grégory Mounis and Jamal Fakir both missing, whilst the injury to Dimitri Pelo against Leeds last weekend is offset by the return of Justin Murphy to the match squad. Catalans have won just one from four previous Super League meetings with the Quins and will be hoping to take advantage of their opponent’s current poor form to address that record.
Skolars host Featherstone
London Skolars will host high flying Featherstone Rovers this Sunday at New River Stadium. The Skolars who are still looking for their first win of the season despite some solid performances will face a tough challenge from a side that goes into the clash third in National League Two and just two points shy of leaders Celtic Crusaders.
Kick-off is 3:00 pm, details can be found here.
Kick-off is 3:00 pm, details can be found here.
Saturday, 28 April 2007
Quins hope to do double on champions
Quins RL face champions St Helens at home on Sunday afternoon, with both sides coming off the back of comprehensive defeats.
Saints have been somewhat erratic performers this season when compared with their imperious form in 2006. A crushing defeat by Leeds last weekend underlining their vulnerability, but that will be no surprise to the Quins who took the points in the team’s first encounter at the start of the season.
The visitors are likely to be missing winger Ade Gardner with an eye injury sustained in an assault in his home town of Barrow, loose forward Jason Hooper is out for most of the season, Lee Gilmour is likely to be out for a couple of months following surgery on a knee injury, whilst Jon Wilkin has a broken hand. Sean Long is also an injury worry, but is expected to play.
On the home front Quins also have a mini injury crisis with Matt Gafa, David Mills and Henry Paul definitely missing the match, hooker whilst Julien Rinaldi and prop Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook are injury worries but remain in contention to make the seventeen.
Head coach Brian McDermott will be hoping his side can put on a greater performance last weekend’s outing against Huddersfield, and shake off the tiredness that has dogged the side coming out of the hectic Easter schedule.
Saints have been somewhat erratic performers this season when compared with their imperious form in 2006. A crushing defeat by Leeds last weekend underlining their vulnerability, but that will be no surprise to the Quins who took the points in the team’s first encounter at the start of the season.
The visitors are likely to be missing winger Ade Gardner with an eye injury sustained in an assault in his home town of Barrow, loose forward Jason Hooper is out for most of the season, Lee Gilmour is likely to be out for a couple of months following surgery on a knee injury, whilst Jon Wilkin has a broken hand. Sean Long is also an injury worry, but is expected to play.
On the home front Quins also have a mini injury crisis with Matt Gafa, David Mills and Henry Paul definitely missing the match, hooker whilst Julien Rinaldi and prop Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook are injury worries but remain in contention to make the seventeen.
Head coach Brian McDermott will be hoping his side can put on a greater performance last weekend’s outing against Huddersfield, and shake off the tiredness that has dogged the side coming out of the hectic Easter schedule.
South London double header
Both of South London Storm’s sides will face a tough test today in their first home games of the season. The first team, reigning RLC Premier champions, face the imposing prospect of St Albans Centurions, whilst the second team, reigning London ARL champions, will face London Griffins.
St Albans will arguably pose the greatest test to South London’s hopes of defending the RLC Premier title, having dropped down from playing in National League Two. West London based Griffins are a new team to the London League having been established as a tag-rugby side.
Storm v Griffins kicks off at 1.00 p.m. with the Storm v Centurions following at 2.30. Both games are played at Storm Park in Thornton Heath.
St Albans will arguably pose the greatest test to South London’s hopes of defending the RLC Premier title, having dropped down from playing in National League Two. West London based Griffins are a new team to the London League having been established as a tag-rugby side.
Storm v Griffins kicks off at 1.00 p.m. with the Storm v Centurions following at 2.30. Both games are played at Storm Park in Thornton Heath.
Skolars face Workington
London Skolars will be facing Cumbrian side Workington Town, at 3:00 p.m. today at the New River Stadium.
Skolars will buoyed by picking up their first points of the season against Swinton last weekend, face a Workington side disrupted by the recent departure of coach Ged Stokes.
The under-14's will be taking on Brixton Bulls at 11:00 a.m. with the reserve grade side taking on West London Sharks in the RLC Premier at 1:30 p.m.
Skolars will buoyed by picking up their first points of the season against Swinton last weekend, face a Workington side disrupted by the recent departure of coach Ged Stokes.
The under-14's will be taking on Brixton Bulls at 11:00 a.m. with the reserve grade side taking on West London Sharks in the RLC Premier at 1:30 p.m.
Friday, 20 April 2007
Quins RL aim to chop down Giants
Quins RL go into Sunday’s game away at the Galpharm Stadium on the crest of a three match unbeaten run, but a hectic travel schedule across the Easter period, which saw the team make two trips to the South of France and back in as many weeks has taken its toll. The team looked very tired in the closing stages of the hard fought draw against Wakefield last Saturday and injury worries are emerging on the horizon.
The apparent inability of Scott Hill to play a full match is a concern for Quins fans. The former Kangaroo playmaker has struggled to find a fluent relationship with his teammates; not helped by a persistent bout of flu, but has shown flashes of brilliance and there are growing signs that an understanding is gradually building. There will be no reunion for the Paul brothers, with both Robbie and Henry out for the meeting, but key organisers Danny Orr and Mark McLinden are named.
Zebastian “Lucky” Luisi, who suffered a hand injury pre-season, comes into the squad for the first time in place of the injured Chris Melling. Whether Luisi makes it into the final seventeen will probably depend on whether Hill starts at standoff with McLinden at fullback or whether he plays from the bench as an impact player. With Paul dropping out of the back-row and former Huddersfield forward Jonny Grayshon still out with a hamstring injury a potential opportunity opens up for youngster Michael Worrincy to join skipper Rob Purdham and Lee Hopkins in the back-row.
Huddersfield had a horror start to the season, dropping their first seven games, albeit most by the smallest of margins resulting in them having the second meanest defence is the league behind St Helens, but ominously for Quins they have won their last three games. The Giants ability to remain competitive even during such a bad losing streak should send out warning signals to Quins coach Brian McDermott whose side has frequently switched off during games and has regularly faded in the closing stages of both halves, particularly in their most recent game when the signs of fatigue were obvious.
The key danger men for Quins to watch will be former London Bronco Chris Thorman and explosive hooker/halve Brad Drew. In the backs Martin Aspinwall and Jamahl Lolesi offer plenty of attacking threat whilst the Giants boast one of the most mobile packs in Super League featuring the likes of Ryan Hudson, Chris Nero and Stephen Wild.
This match presents an intriguing clash, both sides are unbeaten in three games; Quins lapses in intensity may come to haunt them against the parsimonious Huddersfield defence, but the fans will still be hoping that the Orr – Hill – McLinden axis has the arsenal to cut down the Giants resurgence!
The apparent inability of Scott Hill to play a full match is a concern for Quins fans. The former Kangaroo playmaker has struggled to find a fluent relationship with his teammates; not helped by a persistent bout of flu, but has shown flashes of brilliance and there are growing signs that an understanding is gradually building. There will be no reunion for the Paul brothers, with both Robbie and Henry out for the meeting, but key organisers Danny Orr and Mark McLinden are named.
Zebastian “Lucky” Luisi, who suffered a hand injury pre-season, comes into the squad for the first time in place of the injured Chris Melling. Whether Luisi makes it into the final seventeen will probably depend on whether Hill starts at standoff with McLinden at fullback or whether he plays from the bench as an impact player. With Paul dropping out of the back-row and former Huddersfield forward Jonny Grayshon still out with a hamstring injury a potential opportunity opens up for youngster Michael Worrincy to join skipper Rob Purdham and Lee Hopkins in the back-row.
Huddersfield had a horror start to the season, dropping their first seven games, albeit most by the smallest of margins resulting in them having the second meanest defence is the league behind St Helens, but ominously for Quins they have won their last three games. The Giants ability to remain competitive even during such a bad losing streak should send out warning signals to Quins coach Brian McDermott whose side has frequently switched off during games and has regularly faded in the closing stages of both halves, particularly in their most recent game when the signs of fatigue were obvious.
The key danger men for Quins to watch will be former London Bronco Chris Thorman and explosive hooker/halve Brad Drew. In the backs Martin Aspinwall and Jamahl Lolesi offer plenty of attacking threat whilst the Giants boast one of the most mobile packs in Super League featuring the likes of Ryan Hudson, Chris Nero and Stephen Wild.
This match presents an intriguing clash, both sides are unbeaten in three games; Quins lapses in intensity may come to haunt them against the parsimonious Huddersfield defence, but the fans will still be hoping that the Orr – Hill – McLinden axis has the arsenal to cut down the Giants resurgence!
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