South Shields Westoe must keep focus and see off Ryton

The match was due to be played last week, but had to be postponed because of a number of players away at Twickenham supporting the national team.

Ryton have had a demanding DN1 season with an horrendous injury list, but they actually began the campaign with two victories, not winning since.

However, to their credit, they have managed to honour fixtures and compete against the odds.

Sitting at the foot of the table, they simply can’t avoid the inevitable drop and they will be hoping for a swift promotion push return next season.

Although Westoe might be expecting a win, they must ensure they are not complacent and stick to their patterns, as Ryton could easily provide an upset on the day.

It’s vitally important that Westoe go all out for a big victory due to the tight promotion race, where it could go down to the wire.

It may seem harsh, but West must ensure that they stay focussed and aim high and punish Ryton.

Westoe make a number of changes due to players being unavailable.

Michael Booth comes in for player-coach Chris Judson, who may be able to cover the bench if work commitments allow.

Michael Potts takes the fly-half spot for Jake Arnold, Jamie Preston moves into the centre alongside Ben Roberts covering for Derek Worthington, and Connor Pascoe slips into the wing position.

The good news is that the selected pack stays the same, where it is hoped that the eight put in a big shift to keep the promotion hopes high.

Flanker Jack Blenkinsop comes on to the bench after excellent reports from development games.

West Nautical Development team play Horden away tomorrow.