Kingstone Press League 1 preview: South Wales Scorpions v North Wales Crusaders

The Welsh derby will be a new experience for the coaches of both teams.

South Wales Scorpions coach Mike Grady saw a huge improvement in his side’s performance last week at Hemel Stags.

He said: “I asked the boys for a reaction after last week and I got one; it was a massive improvement. I don’t think the game was out of our reach but it’s just our execution that’s letting us down.

“I’ve not been involved with one of these derbies before and am quite excited.  The whole atmosphere is going to be fantastic. I am good friends with Anthony (Murray) so it will be good to come up against him.”

Full-back Jonny Leather is back in contention as is forward Micah Manuokafoa

North Wales Crusaders coach Anthony Murray wasn’t overly impressed with his side’s performance against Barrow Raiders.

“A win’s a win,” he said. “I wasn’t happy with the first half performance but in the second half we kicked into gear and got the points that we needed, so it wasn’t a bad afternoon.

“Any derby game is a big game whether it’s Warrington v Widnes or Saints v Wigan. I don’t think league positions come into consideration when you move into a derby – we’re anticipating a real tough afternoon.”

Back rower Stephen Wild should return for the Crusaders.