Bradford Clayton Thunderbirds entertain Thatto Heath St Helens in the weekend’s top of the table clash, with Bradford who currently sit 2nd in the table hosting top of the table Thatto Heath.
The teams are separated only by points difference with both teams having played 4, each winning 3 with both teams losing to an improved Featherstone Rovers.
When asked about the start to the 2015 campaign, Thatto Heath Head Coach Mark Brennan said “We have had a strong start to the season only losing 12-8 to Featherstone in poor conditions but have backed it up with 3 wins against some good teams. We have worked hard on defence over the closed season and we are priding ourselves on not conceding a try now in 240 minutes of rugby, which is a huge achievement. We had a huge roll over of players last year with players moving on and retiring so it’s been a transition for us and we have a very young team with the average age around 19 which bodes well for the future.”
Bradford have also made a strong start, and come into the game on the back of a tough battle against Stanningley last week, which sets them up nicely for what will surely be an even tougher test against fellow title contenders Thatto Heath.
Looking towards this week’s encounter, Brennan added “We know this weekend’s game will be tough. Bradford is a tough place to go and get a result as we found out last year. Bradford have some really good strong forwards who are led round the field by 3 international pivots. I am expecting a tough and physical game that all the players are looking forward to. The Thatto players love testing themselves against one of the best teams around and this weekend should be a great game.”
Also looking ahead to the game, Michael Lambert, Bradford Clayton Thunderbirds Head Coach said “We are looking forward to a tight contest between the two sides that have been to the last four consecutive finals. Both sides are represented well in the upcoming England tour to France which will mean some of the best players in England will be on show on Sunday.”
A fascinating and robust encounter in prospect then. The game kicks off at 2pm, on Sunday 17th May, at Clayton Rugby Club, Bradford, BD7 2PD.
Report by Mark Prescott
