Round 26: Albion v Leeds Tykes Preview

The regular season comes to a close with the visit of Leeds Tykes to Brickfields.

Currently in 7th, the Tykes have all but secured survival, requiring 1 point to be sure of avoiding the relegation play-off spot, but this may be academic as Clifton need an away five pointer against Blackheath, coincidentally the game which Albion would like Blackheath to lose. In addition, the Tykes will be safe if Dings fail to get 2 points out of their match with Rosslyn Park.

The Tykes had a poor start to the season, losing their first 5 fixtures starting with Albion's visit to The Sycamores, where the Tykes lost 12-44, but have improved since winning 6 of the last 9. Their journey has included taking the scalps of Rotherham and Rosslyn Park.

The Tykes have scored 86 tries the season, but conceded 122. Offensively, They tend to have a slower first half, particularly in the 2nd quarter, picking up a little for the second half. Defensively they ship a lot of points in the 2nd and 4th quarters.

Albion will seek to capitalise on a weakness to defend the catch and drive line outs. There may be other opportunities for the pack to cross the line from pick & go, but there may be better opportunities to be developed amongst the backs. The threats that The Tykes possess come from the wings who have scored 40% of their tries.

Both sides have relatively good disciplinary records with the Tykes accumulating 16 cards to Albion's 12. Look out for the No 8 Edward Brown, who has received 5 yellow cards, 2 for foul play and 3 technicals.

Player to watch: Scrum-half Ewan Laughton, started every game this season, Ewan has scored 5 tries, but may be subjected to sever pressure at the base of the scrum. Could sneak across the line given the opportunity.

Weather: Warm(ish) and sunny. A light to moderate SE breeze will blow from the Brunel Stand.

Prediction: Win for Albion, despite recent ups and downs.

Other games of note:

Rotherham Titans (1st) v Sale FC (4th} - Rotherham should claim the title, but a slip up could allow Blackheath to pinch it.
Blackheath (2nd) v Clifton (11th} - Likely win for Blackheath. Falling at the final hurdle, could allow Albion back into second and with it home advantage in the playoff. A win and there's a chance the Title could go their way
Birmingham Moseley (12th) v Bishops Stortford (6th}
Blackheath (2nd) v Clifton (11th} - Both still seeking safety, but likely at best for Mose is the relegation play-off spot.
Dings Crusaders (10th) v Rosslyn Park (5th} - Dings will probably survive, regardless of the result, but 2 points will make it certain.