Dalesmen in seventh heaven

4:34pm Thursday 10th April 2008

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Seventh-placed Wharfedale have won their last six home matches but National League Two visitors Blaydon have every incentive to half that run on Saturday, being just two places and three points behind the Dalesmen.

More importantly, though, they are probably still smarting from Wharfedale's 21-15 success at Blaydon in December - a result achieved from no more than 20 per cent possession in the game.

Boosted by some significant loan signings, Blaydon have recovered from a tentative start to the season to cement their league status.

At home, their sole reverse since entertaining Wharfedale has been against Otley (23-19).

Blaydon's away record is not so hot, though, but apart from a 64-10 hammering at promotion-seeking Manchester, any defeats have been marginal. A competitive encounter is in prospect.

There are no surprises in the Greens' line-up, given recent form, but one prop berth will be decided after a late fitness test.

Wharfedale (home to Blaydon): A Whaites; A Hodgson, C Malherbe, M Bedworth, S Horsfall; A Baggett, J Doherty; T Horner, G Hindle, C Steel, D Lister, A Capstick, A Allen, R Baldwin, R Lednor. Replacements: F Lovatt, O Renton, L Gray, A N Other.