Hornets confident ahead of Scorpions clash

Rochdale Hornets coach John Stankevitch admits he has some tough decisions to make ahead of Sunday’s sudden death clash with South Wales Scorpions.

Stankevitch said: “Everybody is putting their hand up to play, but the majority of the squad are carrying some kind of knock.”

He added: “I don’t consider us to be the favourites. South Wales can call on dual-registered players and loan signings from Crusaders.

“However, we don’t need any motivation whatsoever, especially with being at home. We have to be confident after beating them only five weeks ago by a relatively heavy margin.”

South Wales Scorpions’ preparation for their Co-operative Championship play-off campaign has been hit by both injuries and suspensions.

Loz Wildbore and Championship One Team of the Year representative Gil Dudson are both suspended while fellow forwards Lloyd White, Geraint Davies, Joe Burke, Neil Dallimore and Harri Greville are all injured.

Scorpions coach Anthony Seibold said: “We are underdogs in this game but we know that all the pressure is on the opposition with home ground advantage and a much stated ambition to go deep into the play-offs.

“It will be interesting to see how they handle that pressure when they are such favourites. We know they have many threats across the park in guys like Phil Wood, Wayne English and others.”