Match Preview: Skirlaugh Ready for National Cup Test Against Thatto Heath

Cup rugby returns to Skirlaugh this weekend as the village welcomes one of the game's most respected community clubs, Thatto Heath Crusaders, in a mouth-watering BARLA National Cup Round 2 clash.

After progressing through the opening stages of the competition, both sides will be aiming to keep their National Cup dream alive. Thatto Heath arrive full of confidence after overcoming Moldgreen in the qualifying round, while Skirlaugh will be hoping home advantage can inspire another memorable cup afternoon.

Skirlaugh have built a reputation for being a difficult side to beat on home soil, with their physical pack. They'll be looking to lay a strong platform through the middle before giving their outside backs opportunities to make an impact.

Standing in their way are a Thatto Heath side renowned for their speed, discipline and big-match experience. The visitors have consistently been one of the strongest community clubs in the country and will travel to East Yorkshire expecting a fiercely competitive encounter.

The National Cup always produces special occasions, and Saturday's contest has all the ingredients of another classic. With a place in the next round at stake, neither side will be giving an inch, and supporters can expect a fast, physical and entertaining 80 minutes.

The Skirlaugh faithful will undoubtedly have a huge role to play, and a strong home crowd could provide the extra lift the hosts need against quality opposition.

Match Details

• Competition: BARLA National Cup Round 2

• Fixture: Skirlaugh RL vs Thatto Heath Crusaders

• Venue: Eastside Community Sports Trust

• Kick-off: Saturday, 2:30pm

Get down to Skirlaugh, get behind the lads, and help create another fantastic cup atmosphere as they look to book their place in the next round of the BARLA National Cup.