Northallerton Stallions continue their preparations for the coming Co-operative Rugby League Conference season this weekend when they entertain Conference National outfit Gateshead Storm at Brompton Lodge on Sunday (1.30pm).

Stallions have attracted a number of new players to the sport during the off-season and Head Coach Steve Worsnop is keen for them to get some “hands on” experience so they will all feature in the warm-up game.

“The new guys are in the position that the rest of the squad were this time last year” said Worsnop. “They are new to the sport and have worked hard in training but you can only replicate so much of the game. The only way they can really experience the cut & thrust is to get out there and play. I want to give them all plenty of game time so we get to see how they go. I’m expecting another tough season so we need some strength in depth but we also need to know that the guys are ready”.

With most of the squad from the inaugural season staying on, the club is looking to continue the development of the side who had a tough baptism in a very strong Yorkshire division in their first season. A restructuring of the competition sees the Northallerton side competing in the North East conference in 2009.

As well as “blooding” the new players, Worsnop will be using this weekend’s game to gauge the progress of those coming back for a second season. “The boys have worked very hard over the off-season and Sunday will give the coaching team a chance to see how they carry that forward into a game. Everyone who is available will feature at some point as we look at a number of combinations ahead of the new league campaign”.

Gateshead are likely to be without the players they share with professional neighbours Gateshead Thunder but will still prove a stern challenge for the Stallions who expect many of the squad who took the spoils 60 – 16 in a friendly last July to turn out for Storm at the weekend. This outing will give Northallerton an opportunity to see what progress has been made since then.

The Stallions are looking to set down firm roots in the Hambleton district and are always looking for new players, helpers, sponsors and supporters. “We want to establish the club as an integral part of the sporting & social scene in the area and want to help develop both on-field and off-field skills” said Worsnop. “Anybody who wants to have a look at what we are doing is more than welcome to come along to training or on match day. No experience is needed as we have a team of qualified coaches and administrators who will work with any new arrivals, ensuring they get the best possible coaching, help & support”.

Training takes place every Tuesday & Thursday at Northallerton Rugby Club from 7pm. For more information on the club, playing, helping or just supporting, call Steve on 01609 773222

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