Rossendale has been the venue of two of the best away Kendal performances in the last two seasons, with a combined score of 60 v 59, with Rossendale winning 31v28 with the last move of the game in injury time two seasons ago, whilst last season, we came out on top by 29v31, coming back after being 12v0 and 17v3 down early in the game, to win with a late penalty try.
Rossendale had a mixed start to the season winning narrowly in their opening game against Hull, which is still their only defeat so far. This was followed by a narrow defeat to Lymm (one of their only three wins so far), Harrogate and then a remarkable one point in 97 against free scoring Sandal. This has been followed by maximum points from four of their last five games, the loss coming away Wirral where few teams prosper, with Billingham’s only loss coming at the start of the Rossendale winning sequence.
They sit sixth in the table having picked up try scoring bonus point in six their nine games and losing bonus points in two of their four losses.
TEAM : After a stable pack for much of this season, it is an all new front five this week, even if the first name is anything but new, with Billy Coxon coming in for his first start for since February 2005. Garry Holmes returns after injury and a run out for the Development team last week, whilst Dom Musetti returns after having to sit out the Billingham game. Liam Hayton returns after being away a fortnight ago, whilst John Dervey makes a first start after injury. The all action back row stays intact.
Multiple changes behind the pack too. Dini Noyo returns after being unavailable for the Billingham game. A newcomer (?) at outside half, with Glen Weightman returning to the centre, and Danny Barker returning for first game since last September. Zane Butler moves to the wing, whilst Nick Carlton and Chris Park retain their places. Ben Dixon comes onto the bench, joining Matthew Kaye and Robbie Collinson.
WEATHER : Sunny with little chance of rain.