The season's nearly here...


Nick Walshe

By Early Vaughan
August 25 2003

With Sale's first game against Tigers at the lovely Edgeley Park coming up, now seemed a good time to look ahead to the momentous day. Season tickets have been safely despatched, pitches have been lengthened, and pies have been worried about. The waiting is nearly over...

There has been much to ponder over the close season. Vaughan, in all his Earliness, has chosen to mull over some ponderables (now that's what I call writing!) for you, the Sharks faithful...
 
1) Will EP be any good?
 
All the signs are there (apart from ones outside - but that's another story) that EP should be a success. Swanny and the team seem to have sold a decent amount of season tickets, and hopefully some curious locals and County fans will swell the ranks. The view from the Cheadle End is pretty good if you like your rugger BTP, and the Vernon looks set to take over as the Posh Seats. So all is set fair. I will miss the Birtles though... let's hope the atmosphere is as good!
 
2) How will we do this season?
 
Well, a positive year should be on the cards again. Jason White and Andrew Sheridan should bring some much-needed bulk up front, and with a decent amount of ball, the league's most exciting backline should be able to cut loose. The sooner Charlie returns with his amazing passing game, the better. Pete Angelsea is sure to lead from the front.... go on Big Red! A top three finish has to be the aim... and a better showing in Europe is a must.
 
3) How will the World Cup affect things?
 
Sharks look as though they might be less affected than the other top sides. Of course JR, Basil and Jason White will be missed, but given the strength of those players remaining we could be looking at a fast start - here's hoping anyway! Charlie, the flying Emu, Frank and perhaps Andy Titterrell will all have points to prove.... watch out world! Look out for super Vaughan Going from the back too - he never lets us down!
 
4) Tigers!
 
Our opening fixture at EP brings the much despised Tigers up north. This game is never really a friendly is it? Expect lots of niggle and a home win! Personally, I can't think of a better way to start the season than by beating the Cheetahs. The referee will have his work cut out just making sure they don't have 16 on the pitch... Seriously though, their absences due to RWC '03 may mean that we have the "Edge" on them , if you'll pardon the horrific pun. So get down to EP, get the atmosphere going and get behind the boys. It can't come soon enough!
 
Oh yeah... hope to see some Tigers fans there too I suppose!
 
Early Vaughan

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