After the excitement of last weekend’s Northe Rail Bowl Final Skolars return to Championship 1 action on Sunday when they make the relatively short trip to take on the University of Gloucestershire All Golds at the Prince Of Wales Stadium, Cheltenham.
The two teams have already met twice this season with Skolars coming out on top on both occasions. Back in March, on a gluepot of a pitch at New River Skolars won a Northern Rail group match by 20-0 and, more recently, in June, Skolars took the spoils in a Championship 1 fixture by 38-22, although Gloucestershire gave a good account of themselves and led for long periods of the game. The league newcomers will be buoyed by recent back to back league wins.
The All Golds will be boosted by the addition of two new signings, winger Nev Morrison from Sheffield Eagles, and Hull FC fullback Danny Nicklaus.
All Golds head coach Brad Hepi said: “Nev is a big strong running canter or wing, that can score tries and is proven at Championship level. He is a current member of the Eagles Championship winning squad, and will give us a much needed boost in the final run in.
“Danny Nicklaus has played 10 games at Super League level for Hull FC during 2012, and has come to us to get much needed game time due to the strength in depth FC have at the moment in the halfbacks department.
“I’m excited to have both high quality players join us at the All Golds until the seasons end.
Joe Mbu will take a strong squad to Cheltenham with only Ade Adebisi, injured at Halifax last week, likely to miss out. Latest signing Gareth Raynor is expected to travel with the squad and could feature.
Skolars currently lay 5th in the Championship 1 table with games in hand on most of their rivals and will be looking to cement their play-off place with a win before they face high flying Oldham at home the following Sunday.
Skolars 19’s, under the stewardship of coach Matt Cuss, have reached the Grand Final and this takes place tomorrow (Saturday the 27th) at Hemel Stags, KO 2.00pm. Matt will be looking to emulate his predecessor, Neil Thorman, who coached the Skolars 18’s to Grand Final success last season.
Skolar A’s are also in action on Saturday when they entertain South West London Chargers at New River (Perth Road pitch) in a Souther Premier fixture. KO is 2.30pm.
Good luck to all Skolars player who are pulling on the shirt for the club this weekend!
