Twickenham or Bust!
Back from England duty
By Martyn Horwell
March 19 2009
Back in December, Leeds Carnegie travelled to Meadow Lane knowing, that victory on that day, and then again the following week against Exeter, would put them in pole position for a return to the GP. Both games were won, but, 3 months on, and Leeds make the short journey down the M1 again, to face the first of two consecutive games that will have an enormous impact on the rest of their season.
This weekend sees the semi finals of the National Trophy, and the fact that Leeds are still in the competition is testament to the never say die attitude the team has adopted this season. In the last round we were deep into injury time with Leeds trailing 24 -14, but somehow the lads pulled that one out of the fire, earning the right to travel to Nottingham this week. Two consecutive league defeats since then though, have left many fans wondering if Leeds would forego the ‘glory’ of the Trophy to ensure a rapid return to the Promised Land.
As far as I am concerned these doubts no longer exist, with a strong side being announced for Sunday’s clash. There are 7 changes from last weeks disappointing league defeat at Bedford, but the biggest talking point is undoubtedly the return of Biggs and Vickerman from 7’s duty, and these two will surely bolster both the attacking and defensive options in the threequarters. Jason Strange will be tasked with controlling the game from fly half, and Henry Paul dictating the midfield, exactly the situations in which their experience should come to the fore. Up front, much will depend on the ability of Lund, Pendlebury and Myall to secure good line out ball. There is an interesting first start for Tim Davidson, but probably just as important a very strong bench has been named, including the welcome return of Fosi Pala’amo.
So its game on, and hopefully, many Leeds fans will make the short trip into Robin Hood country and get behind the team. Let’s hope for maybe a bit better luck than last week, and look forward to a trip to Twickenham, a week before the trip to Plymouth, and a double celebration.
If our last visit is anything to go by, it will be tense, and it will be close, but as ever, I am hopeful we can do the trick. It may not be good for the nerves, but I am going for a narrow Leeds victory by only 5 or 6 points.
In the other semi, I expect Exeter to have too much firepower for Moseley, but expect Moseley to throw the kitchen sink at The Chiefs, and maybe restrict them to a 15 point victory.
Enjoy the game.
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I've a funy feeling about Moseley this weekend too
WHATEVER IT TAKES
Last time we made the trip to Nottingham,we were all chuffed at the ExeterVEsher draw.Could this be a good omen?
WHATEVER IT TAKES
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2009:03:20:15:30:58 by Tartan Tyke.
Do we want to risk injuries and weakening our side for the NAT 1 run in.
I think its a risk too much. GP rugby is far more important. Put the kids in against Notts and see what happens.
we play the strongest side possible,beat them get are moral up! then wil beat plymouth
theyl b gutted and hopefully then Doncaster will do em the week after
COME ON LEEDS.
We've been through it all together.