We welcome old friends from Darlington still searching for the winning formula after last weeks disappointing loss to Whitby. It was felt we could have got something from that game having played some reasonable rugby with a side beset by unavailability and players out of position in key areas was too much. Still lots of positives with the form of some new players and the emergence of second row Anth Smyth as a genuine kicking option.

Darlington will be buoyed by a bonus point win over league new boys Seaton Carew and as ever will come to the Sedgie Wok hoping to take the spoils and secure bragging rights.

Games between the 2 sides are generally tight affairs and this promises to be no different, Darlington looking to consolidate on last weeks positive result and Sedgie hoping to get the season going with a first win.

Team News

Kevin Vaughan returns to Sedgefield colours following a successful summer of Rugby League that saw him reach the grand final, James Watson returns to captain the side at hooker and Bonus Point Bobby Blackburn retains his place at prop after impressing last week against Whitby. Anth Smyth and Paul Wilkinson lock out and Player Coach Paul McCormack dons the 6 jersey. Will Johnson moves back to the pack after filling in at 12 last time out and Ollie Lines completes the pack.

In the backs Michael Shepherd returns at 9 against his former club with Owen Robinson at ten. Josh Hodgson is another ex Darlington player at 12 and Josh Hetherington is at 13. The Back Three is Gareth Pratt and Ryan Towler on the wings with last weeks Man of the Match Danny Wolfe at full back.

A very strong bench who will all be utilised is Dan Lawson, Nick Stringer and the return of club captain Phil Dawson provides a huge boost to the Sedgie Squad.