For a number of weeks the faithful have anticipated Leeds running in a big score, and even though the defence creaked last week, Leeds attacked with the cutting edge they had been promising, and a successful end of season run-in looked highly likely. Playing fast, incisive, attacking rugby the fans would be treated to an end of season bonanza, but today’s news on the loanees, has now tempered my hopes somewhat.

Certainly, the half back pairing of Cliff and Ford junior was instrumental in last weeks display, and it has to be hoped that their replacements will step up to the mark, and say to Diccon, ‘look, I’m as good as them’.

Still, no matter what concerns we have on that score, our hosts are going through a torrid spell. Long serving player, and coach, Graham Dawe was relieved of his duties recently, but his successor lasted only a few games, as it became clear the finances were not available to sustain his hopes. The clubs future is uncertain and it is a difficult period for everyone involved with the Albion, and we must hope they find a way to resolve these issues and continue to be a formidable club. I have very happy memories of my trip to Brickfields two seasons ago, and I’m sure those lemonheads who venture to the south west this weekend will receive the same hospitable welcome.

However our concerns are for Leeds, and I am sure there will be no sympathy for our opponents for the 80 minutes when they come face to face this weekend. Leeds recent run of success may have only moved them up into 5^th place in the table, but they are now only 4 points away from taking the second spot, and while other fixtures this weekend  probably won’t allow that to happen, wins in the next three fixtures almost certainly will. Meanwhile Albion has won 5 of their 17 games, and currently sits next to the bottom of the league. They will have to endure the relegation play offs, and hopefully they will avoid the drop and come back stronger next season.

When the teams met at Headingley in October, tries from Plug, Stevo, and Thorny, gave Leeds an unconvincing 28 – 23 win, the third in their unbeaten run, and it is fair to say, Leeds have come a long way since then. Diccon Edwards will have to make a number of changes to this week’s line up. Unless there are any new signings, Gareth Denman or Sam Lockwood will cover for Mac., and Joe will replace George, although I hope he plays his own game and doesn’t try to copy his kid brother. The other two forced changes aren’t as easy to predict. Robbie Shaw will probably start at 9, although he wouldn’t be my choice, but there are a few options available for the 12 shirt. Joe Barker, and Scott Barrow have both featured this season, but another option would be to play Pete Lucock in his preferred position of centre, and recall Lee Blackett to the wing.

Whatever team is selected, I anticipate another win for Leeds, hopefully by 12. I hope all the fans that make the long journey have a safe and enjoyable trip.

There are two other top 8 clashes this weekend, as London Welsh play host to Bristol, and Donny travel to Nottingham, and for what it’s worth, I predict a couple of victories for the away teams.

COME ON LEEDS

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