After the frustration of last weekend, Sandbach return to Bradwall Road, looking to get back to winning ways. That certainly will not be easy with the visit of Bridgnorth, who are a place above them in the league and traditionally difficult opponents. Sandbach at least look likely to have available top try scorers James Preston and Elliot Morris who return after injury, but the big presence of Mark Irving is unlikely to make it, having limped off with a badly twisted ankle last week in Sheffield.

Bridgnorth are usually up for this game, particularly as they play against their former teammate, Sandbach’s 1st XV skipper Jimmy Gore. North appear to have lost a couple of players over the Covid break to Bournville and Newport, but are always a well organised and committed side, backed up by what can best be described as partisan supporters. The weather forecast predicts a strong gusty northly wind, which could well influence proceedings too, so bring your coat and woolly hat.