Match Preview

Sandbach travel to Caldy on Saturday, for their first game in the new format for the Cheshire Cup this season. There has been a change to the traditional knockout format in the competition, with the introduction of mini leagues, with whoever comes out on top, progressing into the final. Sandbach playing Caldy 2’s on the 26th August 2023 and then Macclesfield, the holders, in a cup and league double header on 14th October 2023, in their mini league. Northwich, Wirral and Stockport making up the other league.

It certainly won’t be easy at Paton Field, as though in theory playing Caldy’s second team, they have not been beaten for 67 consecutive games, a run that stretches back to April 2019. Being a semi professional outfit, playing against many full-time professional clubs at 1st XV level in the Championship, several of their 2’s players will have played at the second highest level of rugby in England on occasion and some above that. So their successful run is not surprising as in their normal season in the Halbro Premier League, they play Sandbach’s equivalent second string.

Whatever teams both sides select will be interesting, the home team having players vying for a coveted 1st XV spot, while Sandbach start a period of transition, as experienced players retire, and new ones come in. Accordingly, it is likely to be something of a test drive for Sandbach, as they look to build towards their opening game away at Leek, in the following weekend, as new faces settle in and the young talent coming through from the famed Bach academy acclimatises. Come what may the lads will be giving their all and with new Head Coach Tom Holmes at the helm, they will be keen to impress and whatever the result, rugby is back and for that we can all be happy.

Meet for the coach at Bradwall Road at 12.15 pm Saturday, all supporters welcome.