WEST Bowling are back in Kingstone Press National Conference League action after a six-year absence on Saturday when they meet Eastmoor Dragons in Division Three at Emsley's Rec.

Bowling are celebrating the event with a pre-match players' reunion which will include the class of 1999 - the team that set them off on the Conference road with a derby at Keighley Albion.

The arrival of summer rugby forced West's to switch back to the winter game due to their Bankfoot pitch being unavailable during the cricket season.

A number of promises of alternative venues came to nought but the upgrading of the facilities at Emsley's Rec has at last ensured a return to the upper reaches of the community game. 

Bowling's capacity to produce classy youngsters has seen the professional clubs come calling, leaving coach Glenn Barraclough to constantly amend his squad, but the prospect of quality opposition has resulted in three signings.

“We have been fortunate in recruiting three local lads, and the balance of the team still remains the same.” said Barraclough.

“Kyle Carter is a powerful hooker, who will make his debut on Saturday, Elliot Cousins is a big, strong second-rower who played here as a junior and wingman Nick Fontaine will come on board once his commitments with Bradford Salem have finished.

"Eastmoor historically always play to a good standard and, while we are under no illusions as to the task confronting us, the boys are looking forward to the challenge this level of rugby will bring."

In the Pennine League, Clayton are on a revenge mission when West Craven Warriors arrive in the second round of the Andrew Bennett Memorial Trophy at Lidget Green.

The Warriors pulled off a surprise 28-12 home win, which scuppered the Villagers' Division Two promotion prospects in January, but coach Scott Pendlebury will have a far stronger fully-fit squad on parade, which should ensure their progress this time out.

Victoria Rangers face a huge task of continuing further in the competition when they travel to unbeaten Division One pacesetters Ovenden, while  Brighouse Rangers will be brimful of confidence when they greet Cutsyke Raiders.

Rangers hold all the aces after a convincing 32-22 league win in early November on home soil.

Hooker Troy Ambler and scrum half Jamie Barraclough ruled the roost on that occasion with splendid contributions, and they will once again be at the hub to try and ensure that the visitors go home empty handed.