On Saturday (14th October) we welcome the team, management and supporters from Lockwood Park in our 5th encounter in the National Leagues. This is a side that boasts former players like Luther Burrell and a ground purchased from brewing giants Bass!

Unfortunately, we have lost on two occasions but did manage a bonus point in September 2014 losing in a thrilling 10 – 7 encounter at Lockwood Park but a poor showing less than 4 months later by 12 – 24 at Stourton Park. This was in a season when our visitors came 9th with 71 league points compared with our 10th place and 69.

The following season, roles were reversed and Stour ended a respectable 4th place behind Macclesfield, Sedgley Park and Leicester Lions whilst Huddersfield joined Sandal and Broadstreet in the drop. However, they did manage a win against Leicester Lions but went down to Stour Power 20 – 29 and then 25 – 19 in the return game at Stourton Park.

Notwithstanding their current position they had a fabulous season last year, winning 100% of their games and scoring 1,180 points and conceding just 263. Promotion with 124 points was a great achievement but they are another team that are realising what a huge difference there is between various levels in league rugby.

Consequently, this will be a huge game for both sides and neither can show any complacency. Whatever the result, let us hope that rugby will be the winner, all spectators will enjoy the occasion and the beer will flow like…beer!