Doherty wants Wharfedale to be brave in heat of battle

The positivity of the new coach mirrors the air of optimism which seems to have swept away the relegation blues of last season from The Avenue.

Doherty insists that he does not want to be a puppet master, pulling the strings from the touchline and barking orders.

"My job is to work with the players in training to make each of them a better rugby player," he said.

"I want them to have the confidence to be brave in match situations and make the right choices."

The battle-hardened Rob Baldwin will captain the side, which has been boosted by the return of old Wharfedale favourites Tom Barrett, Scott Jordan and James Tincknell.

Stand-off Barrett is back for his third spell with the club after two seasons at Rotherham Titans. His creative ability and goal-kicking will be key factors and Doherty has been delighted with what he has seen from the player so far.

"He has always had a lot of natural ability and has shown a willingness to take the lead in training and during the friendly at Blaydon," said the Greens coach.

Wharfedale's team for tomorrow's opener at home to Preston Grasshoppers includes brothers Harry and Jimmy Bullough. Harry takes his place at full-back, while Jimmy will partner Barrett at half-back.

The returning Jordan is paired with the experienced Andy Hodgson at centre, with speedy duo Ollie Cicognini and Robbie Davidson on the wings.

There are three newcomers in the pack – prop Michael Bradshaw, lock Elliot Ward and flanker Lewis Wilson.

Wharfedale have won five out of their eight previous meetings with Grasshoppers, recording victories in all four home games.

They were relegated to National League Two North in September 2005 and have stayed at the level ever since.

The Preston side's most famous player was second-rower Wade Dooley, who won 55 England caps.

Head coach Gareth Dew played for Sale Sharks, Manchester and Sedgley Park before finding his way up the M6 to Preston.