Match Preview

After what seems like an eternity, the Wasps are back in action, albeit with a slightly different look to their line-up, than the last outing against Darlington at Mint Bridge. This Sunday sees the Wasps at league position 4 host Preston Grasshoppers in position 7 in a mid-table league match.

Forwards
Kerry Stevens returns from injury to captain the side at loose head, with the versatile Aimee Sharp switching to hooker. The front row is completed by the welcome ‘guest appearance’ from French exchange student Laura Mason, returning home on a week-long loan from Parisian giants Racing Metro. Amber Kershaw makes a welcome return to the second row, joining the supremely impressive lock Samara Tomlinson in the Wasps engine room.

Back Row
Suzanne Salmon makes a run on debut in the back row, joined by the tireless graft and experience of Emma Rowlinson and Amy Beard in the breakaway trio.

Half-backs
Catherine Sewell continues her impressive early season form at scrum half and Fleur Stanton joins her at fly half in what is developing into a promising pairing.

Three-quarters
The ruthless and uncompromising duo of Sarah Wilkinson and Hayley Hodgson are a formidable centre pairing, whilst the back three feature the most changes: Rowan Boardley joins the back line on the wing, with the electric pace of Emily Elshaw on the opposite wing and the versatile Shannon Barnes moving to full back.

Replacements
Amy Trepte returns from injury to the bench, where she is joined by league debutant Tracy Johnson, who will become the 11th new recruit to taste league action in only the 7th game since the team re-formed.

Coach James Mackereth's Viewpoint:
“Excited is an understatement. It is literally Christmas coming early to just get back out there. A special mention to Sam Mason, joining me in the coaching staff and bringing a load of new ideas and inspiration to a flourishing side”