Dalesmen aim to enjoy visit to YMCA (From Ilkley Gazette)

Dalemen aim to enjoy visit to YMCA

11:25am Thursday 29th November 2012 in Sport By Alan Birkinshaw, Weeklies Sports Editor

Ilkley have plenty of reasons for wanting to win Saturday’s Yorkshire Shield clash at Huddersfield YMCA.

Firstly, they want to avenge the 30-29 Yorkshire One defeat they suffered there in the opening game of the season after leading 29-10.

Then they need to erase the bitter memory of last week’s dismal 17-13 defeat at Dinning- ton.

And if those are not good enough motivating factors, there’s the expectations of the coach-load of supporters who are hoping to cheer them to victory.

Coach Rhys Morgan said: “It is an important game in more ways than one.

“We all enjoyed the thrill of playing at Twickenham last season in the National Intermediate Cup final and this is a stepping stone towards getting back there.

“The Shield winners represent Yorkshire so we are wanting to do well, but it won’t be easy.”

Ilkley are likely to be without a number of key players for the match.

The experience back row duo of Ollie Renton and Alastair Monks – who both missed the Dinnington defeat – are expected to be unavailable and there is also a doubt over stand off Mike Cacchia.

On the plus side, winger Mark Kirkby is back training and in line to return.

Morgan added: “We will need to give careful consideration to selection because this is an important match. I am anxious for us to do well in this competition.”