Friday Feeling – 8th April 2022

After last week’s epic encounter in the capital, on Saturday Caldy return to Paton Field to take on an in-form Bishop’s Stortford side coming to the Wirral on the back of two bonus point wins against Birmingham Moseley and Blackheath.

In recent weeks Bishop’s Stortford’s improved form has seen them move up the league table. However, Caldy’s Director of Rugby Gareth Davies knows that the visitors will be dangerous opponents intent on picking up another bonus point win which will almost certainly ensure their position in National 1.

“This league is so competitive every club is fighting for league points every week. If you are not 100% on your game you will lose, it is simple as that. We had the usual tough game with Bishop’s Stortford earlier in the season and they will be coming to Caldy to try and pick up the win which will surely see them safe. They play a fast and explosive style of rugby. A firm pitch and a forecast for good weather will absolutely suit their game.”

Davies is right to be wary of the visitors whose improving form has seen them pick up back-to-back wins after two very narrow losses against top of the table sides, 15-20 against Cinderford and 33-35 against Sale. Add to the mix the fact that Caldy have never beaten Bishop’s Stortford at Paton Field and the Ravers have a big challenge in front of them if they are to keep their own winning run going.

Head Coach Matt Cairns has selected the following side for the match at Paton Field which kicks off at 3 p.m.

1.Aigbokhae 2. Hearn 3. Rushton 4. Dickinson S 5. Gerrard 6. Crowe 7. Ridgway 8. Dickinson JJ 9. Murray 10. Hinchcliffe 11. Jones B 12. Barlow 13. Titherington 14. Royle 15. Gourlay 16. Clarke 17. Higginson 18. Sanders 19. Davidson 20. Robinson

The Grand National will be televised in the clubhouse at 5.15.

It is important that spectators coming to Paton Field, park in the confines of Paton Field so as not to cause any issues for our neighbours in Pikes Hey Road. In previous home fixtures Pike’s Hey Road has become congested resulting in delivery drivers being unable to access Pike’s Hey.

Please be considerate to our neighbours in Pikes Hey Road and park within the confines of Paton Field.