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Wolves hungry for more success

27/ 8/2008

IT'S all systems go at Pownall Park, where Wilmslow are preparing to step up a gear for a tough new rugby season.

The Wolves take on National League neighbours Macclesfield this weekend in a warm-up match for their North Two West campaign.

And another practice match against old foes Sale next week has been transformed into the perfect preparation for the new league season, which starts on September 13.

Newly-promoted Wilmslow have drawn Sale in the first round of the Cheshire Cup vase competition.

So both sides have decided to give their final practice match a competitive edge and turn it into a cup match as well.

"It’s everything we need to sharpen our game for the following week’s first league game against new Brighton," said coach Darren Lucas.

He has been working his squad hard since the middle of June, concentrating on fitness first, then honing skills in preparation for September.

A handful of new faces have been drawn to Pownall Park by the attractive game the Wolves played to win the South Lancs/Cheshire League One last season.

This term, backed by new sponsors Lexus Stockport, they face tough opposition in sides such as Liverpool St Helens, Rochdale and NewBrighton. There will be a chance also to renew their local rivalry with neighbours Altrincham Kersal and Lymm.

More familiar teams include Broughton Park, Northwich and Sandbach.

Centre Steve Braddock continues as skipper and forward Mike Newall steps up to the role of vice-captain.

Braddock said: "Pre-season training has gone well and we’re building nicely towards our opening game against New Brighton.

"We’ve had a good influx of new players, with Danny Jones from New Brighton, Matt Langtree from Stockport and Ryan Parkinson from Manchester coming in.

"A few guys have also come back to us after finishing university, so competition for team spots is quite fierce, and that has been reflected in the intensity shown at training.

"We’re not looking to make up the numbers in this league. I think we’ve got a very good crop of players - probably the strongest and most talented bunch we’ve had since I joined the club - so we’ve got to make sure we do ourselves justice and have a go at winning the league.

"Everyone is excited about this season and we can’t wait to kick it off."

Wilmslow host Sale at Pownall Park on September 6 and New Brighton the following week, September 13, both at 3pm.