Club of the Week: Hemel
Hemel Stags are performing as expected according to head coach Troy Perkins.
To people outside of the club a record of five wins and five defeats in their debut Championship One season may be seen as an achievement, but Perkins is aiming higher.
“I’m pretty pleased, but back in November at the start of training, our expectations were to win at least half of our games, so all in all we’re just on track to do that,” said the Australian.
“There have obviously been some highlights like playing Wakefield in the Challenge Cup and then beating league leaders North Wales at home.”
The victory over the Crusaders last month was a great moment for Hemel and Perkins praised the fans for their efforts:
“It was a great occasion the game with North Wales. There were a lot of fans there and they made it a special atmosphere.
“We showed what we are capable of in that game, so now it is all about maintaining our form and getting into the play-offs – that is the aim.”
If the Stags achieve their aims then they will no doubt have front row pairing James Howitt and Aiden Pritchard to thank, as alongside centre Aaron Small, Perkins says his two props have been the stand-out players of the season so far.
“James and Aiden have been superb. This is their first experience of this level but they have not taken any backward steps against anyone.”
In Hemel’s next fixture, against Rochdale, the duo will be needed more than ever.
Perkins said, “Rochdale have got some really big forwards and it will be a very physical game.
“They are an effective side but we need to get back on the horse after our last couple of games – losing three on the bounce is not an option.”
To win tickets to Hemel’s next home Kingstone Press Championship One match, against Rochdale on Sunday 7th July, click here.
Kingstone Press Cider has teamed up with LoveRugbyLeague to celebrate all things great about the rugby league Championships. For the rest of the season, ‘Championing the Championships’ campaign will put a weekly spotlight on each Championship and Championship 1 club to focus on their most memorable moments, look back at the clubs heroes and reward the loyal fans. Read more.
