Siddal Rugby League

Club News

PLAYER OR COACH?
March 11, 2010
Batley boss Karl Harrison is considering dropping his ace winger for next month's Challenge Cup-tie - because he coaches the opposition! Lee Greenwood, who played in Super League with London Broncos, Sheffield Eagles, Haifax and Huddersfield, is now plying his trade in the Championship with the Bulldogs but in his spare time coaches his old amateur team Siddal. The 29-year-old Greenwood was elated when he guided the Halifax club to a record 26-0 win over Doncaster in the third round of the Cup last Saturday and his weekend got even better when he scored two tries in two minutes in Batley's 70-6 win over Leeds Met University 24 hours later. But he was left "gutted" when the two teams were paired in the fourth-round draw, placing him in an awkward situation and creating a selection dilemma for Harrison. Greenwood, whose full-time job is a sports co-ordinator at Calderdale College, was on his way home from training with Batley when he heard the draw on his car radio. "Typical, wasn't it?" he said. "I'm gutted. It's the worst possible draw for me and it's not a good one from the club's point of view either because they wanted a Super League team. "When they got past six ties and neither side had come out, I thought it's going to happen. "It could have happened in the third round - I breathed a huge sigh of relief then - or it could have happened last year when I was with Oldham. "I suppose it was going to happen one day, with Siddal always getting through. I guess I will definitely still have an interest in the fifth round though!" "It puts me in a very awkward situation. Perhaps I could go for a long drive, get away for the weekend." Harrison, a former Great Britain international who coached in Super League with Salford, has every sympathy for his player but insists the interests of his club must come first. "It's so uncanny," he said. "It's the worst possible draw for Lee. He's absolutely devastated. He wants to play in the game and he's been playing really well for us. "He's a big part of our team but it gives me a dilemma. It's really difficult. I don't it's think happened before. "We had a giggle over the phone after the draw was made but there are implications. "I don't see how I can play him, to be honest, but I will sit down with the other coaching staff and Lee himself and talk about it. "We'll do what's best for Batley and also for Lee, who is doing a great job at Siddal. To nil a professional club was a great result." Awaiting the outcome of those talks with nervous anticipation is Paul McCormack, the Siddal chairman who is resigned to losing his coach in the long term but hopes he will be on board with his club for the April 18 Cup-tie. "We hope he's on our touchline coaching us but Batley pay his wages," he said. "He's a fabulous young coach. I don't think he will be with us much longer. When he finishes playing, he has a big future coaching in the professional game." Meanwhile, Harrison has revealed that he had intended to leave Greenwood out of the side for Sunday's match because of his limited preparation time due to his involvement with Siddal but was forced to use him after a cruel twist of fate and the player responded with a quick demonstration of his scoring prowess. "John Simpson broke his ankle in the warm-up," said Harrison. "Lee was going to be our 18th man so I had to put him on the bench. I only gave him three minutes out on the field and he scored two tries."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

LUCK OF THE DRAW!
March 10, 2010
GIANT killing coach Lee Greenwood is in a "no win" situation after his Siddal team were given home advantage against his professional club Batley in the fourth round of the Carnegie Challenge Cup. Greenwood, the Bulldogs ex-Halifax wingman who guided Siddal to a stunning 26-0 win at Championship One side Doncaster at the weekend, said he was "absolutely gutted" by the outcome of last night's draw at Warrington's Halliwell Jones Stadium. Elsewhere, Matt Calland's Fax, who steamrollered Ovenden 88-10 on Sunday, avoided Super League opposition with a trip to Championship One side Swinton now on their agenda. "It's a real rollercoaster of emotions, winning at the weekend and then getting a game like that," said Greenwood, who had already received "about 20 texts and 10 phone calls" from players from both sides when he spoke to Courier Sport shortly after the draw was made. "I want Siddal to do well, but at the same time I want to help Batley get as far as they can in the competition. "Whether I play or I coach, it's a no win situation for me. "At the moment, I feel like booking a holiday and making sure I'm a long, long way away." Greenwood's fate will ultimately rest with the Batley coach, the former Halifax prop Karl Harrison, who could effectively block his charge from taking charge of the Chevinedge side, although no decision seems likely until after Thursday night's televised Championship game against Fax at Mount Pleasant. "I've spoken to Karl, but we've a big game coming up this week and we need to focus on that first," said Greenwood, who declined to be drawn on whether he felt Siddal would have a chance of victory in a game that already looks likely to be switched to the Shay. "We've a few weeks to work out what we're going to do." Greenwood isn't the only coach expecting to see some familiar faces in mid-April, with a clutch of Fax old boys waiting for Matt Calland's side at Swinton. Coaching duo Paul Smith and Ian Watson should be joined on the teamsheet by Graham Holroyd, Paul Southern, Danny Heaton and Phil Joseph. "It's a bit spicy, isn't it?" said Calland. "I think it's a great tie for both clubs. There will probably be a few people wanting to prove a point." Full draw: York v Crusaders, Hunslet v Oldham, Swinton v Halifax, Limoux v Leigh, Harlequins v Wakefield, St Helens v Toulouse, Widnes or Wigan St Judes v Lezignan, Catalans v Salford, Sheffield Eagles v Wigan, Siddal v Batley, Hull v Leeds, Castleford v Barrow, Warrington v Featherstone, Blackpool v Whitehaven, Huddersfield v Hull KR, Dewsbury v Bradford. Ties to be played April 16-18.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL DRAW BATLEY!
March 9, 2010
SIDDAL coach Lee Greenwood will come face to face with his professional club Batley in the fourth round of the Carnegie Challenge Cup. Greenwood, the Bulldogs wingman, steered the National Conference amateurs to a stunning victory over another professional side, Doncaster, to earn a place in the next round. Halifax, who romped home against Ovenden, will come up against some familiar names when they visit Championship One side Swinton. The Lions are coached by last season's club captain at the Shay, Paul Smith, and also have a clutch of Fax old boys, including record-breaking stand off Graham Holroyd. The ties will be played on the weekend of April 17/18. Full reaction in Tuesday's Courier Sport
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL AWAIT 4TH ROUND DRAW
March 8, 2010
Halifax based community club Siddal will be dreaming of drawing one of the Super League big guns after creating a huge upset in their third round Carnegie Challenge Cup victory over Co-operative Championship 1 side Doncaster. Siddal, who sit third in the National Conference League, took the lead after just 60 seconds at the Keepmoat stadium through a Scott Caley try and were 10-0 up before half-time when Brad Attwood touched down and added the conversion. A Gareth Blackburn try seven minutes into the second half extended Siddal�s lead before Caley and Attwood added late scores to secure a stunning 26-0 victory. Siddal will now line up alongside the likes of cup holders Warrington Wolves and Grand Final winners Leeds Rhinos in Monday night�s fourth round draw which is live on BBC Radio Five Live shortly after 7.30pm. Joining Siddal in the draw will be two-time cup winners Hunslet Hawks who, after a nervy start, ran in five tries to defeat National Conference League leaders Leigh East 30-14. Two tries from flying winger Rob Foxen helped Swinton Lions beat Warrington Wizards 34-22, whilst three late Whitehaven tries sealed a 40-20 win over Leigh Miners Rangers. A strong Barrow Raiders side, featuring eight players from last year�s Championship Grand Final winning team, scored 11 tries in their 62-10 thrashing of Hunslet Warriors. Andrew Ballard, Nathan Mossop and Ned Catic all scored a brace of tries each for the home side. After reaching the fifth round last year Gateshead Thunder were soundly beaten at home by in-form York City Knights 44-12 in an all Championship 1 tie. Casey Bromilow crossed twice for the visitors. Two tries apiece for Craig Cook and Misi Taulapapa helped 1998 Challenge Cup winners Sheffield Eagles into the fourth round with a 54-0 win over Thatto Heath and Leigh Centurions made light work of last year�s giant killers Wath Brow Hornets. Dave Alstead scored four tries for Ian Millward�s men in the 52-4 victory. Four sides scored over 70 points in their third round victories. Batley Bulldogs, the first Challenge Cup winners in 1897, completed a 12 try rout of Leeds Met University 70-6; Tommy Saxton and Jesse Joe Parker both scored hat-tricks as Featherstone put 74 unanswered points past Workington Town; Joseph Chandler and Mark Brocklehurst also grabbed three tries each as Oldham thrashed Blackwood Bulldogs 80-6 and Halifax defeated local rivals Ovenden 88-10. In another local derby Championship side Dewsbury ran in seven tries to beat community club Drighlington 42-10 whilst elsewhere Blackpool Panthers beat the Royal Navy. The last 32 of the competition will feature four French teams after Toulouse, Lezignan and Limoux all secured their places alongside 2007 finalists Catalans Dragons in Monday night�s draw. Limoux ran in eight tries, including a brace for centre Sam Key, in their 42-16 victory at London Skolars, Jye Mullane and Oliver Janzac both scored twice for Lezignan as they beat Rochdale Hornets 32-22 and Nathan Wynn scored 15 points for Toulouse as they overcame Keighley Cougars 35-26 in an all Championship tie. Siddal will not be the only community club involved in Monday night�s draw which will include all the third round winners plus the 14 Engage Super League clubs. Wigan St Judes will also go into the draw after their third round tie with Widnes Vikings was postponed and rearranged for Tuesday night. The Carnegie Challenge Cup fourth round draw will be live on BBC Radio Five Live on Monday evening shortly after 7.30pm. Tickets for the 2010 Carnegie Challenge Cup Final are currently on sale, priced from just �21. Until Friday March 26, the RFL is offering complimentary upgrades on all ticket bands, with the exception of �76 tickets, for the Wembley showdown. For example, anyone purchasing a �31 ticket will automatically be upgraded to a �41 ticket. To book your Wembley seat at the historic 2010 Carnegie Challenge Cup Final contact the RFL ticket office on 0844 856 11 13 or visitwww.carnegiechallengecup.co.uk
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SUPER SIDDAL GO INTO THE RECORD BOOKS!
March 6, 2010
HALIFAX amateurs Siddal are through to the fourth round of the Carnegie Challenge Cup after delivering a stunning upset at Championship One strugglers Doncaster. Lee Greenwood's National Conference winners, who will be joined in the hat by the 14 Super League clubs, won 26-0 at the Keepmoat Stadium after dominating their professional opponents from start to finish. Siddal were in front after a minute through Scott Caley's try, and stretched their advantage to 10-0 just before half time when Brad Attwood touched down and added the conversion. A Gareth Blackburn try seven minutes into the second period pushed Siddal's lead out to 14-0, before Caley and Attwood added late scores to seal a brilliant victory. Halifax amateur club Siddal will be hoping for a money-spinning tie against one of the Super League big guns when they go into the hat for the Carnegie Challenge Cup fourth-round draw tomorrow night. Siddal, who sit third in the National Conference League, earned their place among the elite clubs when they beat struggling Championship One side Doncaster 26-0 in the third round. Siddal became the 22nd non-league club to topple a professional ouADVERTISEMENT tfit since amateur clubs gained wholesale entry into the Cup in 1993-94 and they did it in record-breaking fashion, eclipsing the previous widest victory of margin achieved by Beverley with their 27-4 win at Highfield in 1995. The only other amateur outfit to go into the hat along with the 14 Super League clubs are Wigan St Judes, whose third-round tie at Widnes Vikings was postponed and rearranged for Tuesday night. The last 32 will feature four French teams after Toulouse, Lezignan and Limoux all secured their places alongside 2007 finalists Catalans Dragons. Limoux ran in eight tries, including a brace for centre Sam Key, in their 42-16 victory at London Skolars, Jye Mullane and Oliver Janzac both scored twice for Lezignan as they beat Rochdale 32-22 and Nathan Wynn scored 15 points for Toulouse as they overcame Keighley 35-26 in an all-Championship tie at Cougar Park. Four Championship sides topped 70 points in today's third round ties. Batley, the inaugural Challenge Cup winners in 1897, scored 12 tries in a 70-6 rout of Leeds Met University, Tommy Saxton and Jesse Joe Parker both scored hat-tricks as Featherstone put 74 unanswered points past Workington, Joseph Chandler and Mark Brocklehurst also grabbed three tries each as Oldham thrashed Blackwood Bulldogs 80-6 and Halifax defeated local rivals Ovenden 88-10. Barrow scored 11 tries in their 62-10 thrashing of Hunslet Warriors at Craven Park, where Andrew Ballard, Nathan Mossop and Ned Catic all scored a brace of tries. After reaching the fifth round last year Gateshead Thunder were soundly beaten 44-22 at home by in-form York, for whom Casey Bromilow crossed twice. Two tries apiece for Craig Cook and Misi Taulapapa helped 1998 Cup winners Sheffield Eagles into the fourth round with a 54-0 win over Thatto Heath and Leigh made light work of last year's giant-killers Wath Brow Hornets. Dave Alstead scored four tries for Ian Millward's men in their 52-4 victory. In another local derby Championship side Dewsbury ran in seven tries to beat community club Drighlington 42-10. The Carnegie Challenge Cup fourth round draw will take place on Monday evening (8 March) and will be live on BBC Radio Five Live shortly after 7.30pm. Broadcast live from The Halliwell Jones stadium, home of current cup holders Warrington Wolves, the draw will feature the winners of this weekend�s third round ties together with the 14 Engage Super League clubs who enter the competition at this stage. Making the draw will be Graeme West and Garry Schofield who both played in the 1985 Challenge Cup Final between Wigan and Hull, a game widely regarded as the greatest final of all time. Players who featured in that cup final will be guests of honour at this year�s Wembley final on Saturday August 28. As with last year when an aggregate crowd of 67,816 turned out to see the fourth round games � the biggest since 1995 � this year�s ties on 17 and 18 April are also expected to attract bumper crowds as season ticket holders at the 14 Engage Super League clubs benefit from free admission to the tie involving their team. According to William Hill, the RFL�s official bookmakers, Leeds Rhinos start the competition as 11/4 favourites. St Helens, the team who knocked the Rhinos out at the fourth round stage last year, are 3/1 second favourites, whilst cup holders Warrington Wolves are joint third favourites with Wigan at 13/2. Tickets for the 2010 Carnegie Challenge Cup Final are currently on sale, priced from just �21. Until Friday March 26, the RFL is offering complimentary upgrades on all ticket bands, with the exception of �76 tickets, for the Wembley showdown. For example, anyone purchasing a �31 ticket will automatically be upgraded to a �41 ticket. To book your Wembley seat at the historic 2010 Carnegie Challenge Cup Final contact the RFL ticket office on 0844 856 11 13 or visitwww.carnegiechallengecup.co.uk
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Book Now! Coach Travel Arrangements to Challenge Cup Tie v Doncaster RLFC
March 4, 2010
Your club have organised travel to next weekend's Challenge Cup Tie with Doncaster at the Keepmoat Stadium, Doncaster. If you want to travel over on one of the buses please don't leave booking a seat until the last minute as you may be disappointed. Please reserve your spot(s) by close of play on Thursday evening. Adult seats will cost �8.00, and Kids (U16's) �5.00. The buses will leave the clubhouse at 12.00noon sharp, and will return from the Keepmoat Stadium at 4.30pm. Book your seat(s)by ringing Eddie Golding-Smith on 07764826318 or by calling the club on 01422 367376.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Carnegie Challenge Cup Round 3
March 3, 2010
Siddal travel to the Keepmoat Stadium, Doncaster next weekend to take on the professionals in the hope that they can make it to the 4th Round Draw and a potential tie with one of the big guns. The game will be played on Saturday 6th March, kicking off at 2.0pm and Siddal ARLFC would like to thank Doncaster RLFC for agreeing to bring the game forward by 24 hours in the hope that floating support in Halifax will travel to the game and still be able to attend the Halifax RLFC v Ovenden ARLFC tie on the Sunday at The Shay. Doncaster RLFC have kindly agreed to permit us to sell tickets prior to the game next Saturday, with a 2.00 pound discount on Adult prices. The club will open between 6.0pm and 8.0pm all next week (Monday to Friday) when you will be able to purchase tickets as follows: Adults �8.00 Concessions �5.00 Kids �1.00 On matchday, Adult admission will cost �10.00 so we encourage everybody to purchase their tickets in advance.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Challenge Cup Bacon Butties !!!
March 2, 2010
In the build up to the Challenge Cup Tie next weekend with Doncaster, the famous Siddal Kabin Krew have agreed to help feed all supporters who are travelling over to cheer the boys on next Saturday. The clubhouse will open from 10.30am next Saturday morning when Sandra (I'm anyone's) Turner, Mary (isn't that Sandra a drama queen) Long and Will (I'm just here to keep the peace) Long will be cooking up some Challenge Cup Specials for us all.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NATIONAL CUP 4TH ROUND UPDATE
February 28, 2010
Round four - Fixtures to be played 20th March Blackbrook/Stanningley v Oulton Raiders East Hull v Hunslet Warriors Leigh East v Thatto Heath Crusaders Halton SC/Wigan St Judes v Wath Brow Hornets Queens 41- 18 York Acorn (played 27th March) Siddal v Wigan St Patricks Normanton Knights v West Hull Hunslet Old Boys v Rylands Sharks
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Sponsors Golden Opportunity
February 25, 2010
Here's a great chance to show your support for our 1st team players by sponsoring them for the Challenge Cup Tie against Doncaster RLFC next weekend. We are looking for a commitment of just �25.00 per player, the club will match that contribution and in return we hope you will get a mention in the matchday programme but certainly your help will be acknowledged on both our website and in the next edition of 'The Chevinedger' matchday programme. If you can help, will you please call Eddie Golding-Smith on 07764826318. Hurry though, as we expect that the players will be snapped up soon.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

PENNINE LEAGUE PREVIEW
February 20, 2010
SAVILE Park stages tomorrow's big Premier Division derby in which Halifax Irish take on Siddal A. Both have beaten Elland at Golfdields in the last fortnight, Irish by two points and Siddal by eight points. Siddal won the first meeting between tomorrow's combatants fairy comfortably at Chevinedge in October and a win for them would see them go joint second in the Premier Division table. A win for Irish would see them close the gap between themselves and the top three to three points. Elland have a very tough test at home to leaders and champions Sharlston Rovers. After a promising start to the season, Elland really need to start picking up points from their remaining six games to get themselves out of the relegation battle. In Division One, Illingworth make the short trip up to Queensbury for the first meeting between the sides for nearly four years. Struggling Illingworth need the points. King Cross Park travel over to Clayton looking to make amends for last week's narrow defeat to fellow promotion chasers Ackworth Jaguars, a result which saw the Wakefield side go level on points with them. Park should be firm favourites after easily beating the Bradford side at home this season. Brighouse Rangers became the first team to take two points off second placed Newsome Panthers in Division Two last week and will be looking forward to the visit of third placed Dearne Valley Bulldogs to Russell Way. Rangers need a win here to keep their title and promotion chase alive. In Division Three, Boothtown Terriers have home advantage but will be in for a tough game against unbeaten leaders West Leeds. Ovenden A also face a tricky game at home to fourth place Littleborough. In the Fourth Division, Siddal B should come back over the Pennines with two points from Hollinwood, who are yet to get off the mark. Elland A are also on their travels with a trip down to Barnsley side Hoyland Vikings. There is another derby match in Division Four with Stainland Stags taking on Halifax Irish A. King Cross Park A are at home to Wibsey Warriors A whilst Whitehall Warriors are playing over in Leeds at Woodhouse Warriors. In Division Six, Brighouse Rangers A will hope to finally have a game after numerous postponements and a couple of no shows by the opposition. They make the short journey to Fartown's St Joseph's A. Illingworth A have what promises to be a close match at home to Westgate Wolves A.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 34 WEST HULL 8
February 20, 2010
Siddal moved back into 2nd spot and cranked up the pressure on Leigh East with this comfortable victory. See reports.........................................................SIDDAL get back to the serious business of trying to retain their Premier Division crown with a home match against West Hull tomorrow (2.30). Lee Greenwood's side last played in the league on December 12, when they beat Oulton Raiders 26-6 at Chevinedge. Since then they have progressed in three cup competitions with wins against Halifax Irish, Saddleworth Rangers, Birstall Victoria and Oulton again last week, when they produced an astonishing late surge from 20 points down to earn a Challenge Cup trip to Doncaster. However, they have failed to find their best form in the last two months and Greenwood puts that down to a stop-start programme and an inability to train properly due to weather-hit facilities. "We haven't been playing particularly well and part of the problem is that we haven't been able to train much and work on the things that have been letting us down," he said. The Siddal teams are thriving on the back on their new clubhouse and the coach suggested that floodlights, which would aid training and also pave the way for midweek fixtures, might be the next project to think about. Siddal have slipped to third in the Premier, five points behind Leigh East and one behind Wath Brow Hornets, who are both not in league action this weekend. Greenwood's men have played two games less and with Easts still to come to Chevinedge, the coach knows a flawless run in would enable Siddal to finish top entering the play-offs. Siddal have already won at West Hull, by 24-20 on October 3 when they showed tremendous character to hit back from a 16-4 half time deficit in windy conditions. The home side's veteran player-coach Mark Hewitt caused the early problems for Siddal on that occasion, setting up a couple of tries, and Greenwood is wary of the influence he could have in the return game. Siddal will be without ultra-reliable fullback Brad Attwood and forward George Ambler while Luke Simeunovich's participation will depend on knee and back injuries. Attwood has a troublesome ankle and stitches in a knee after a accident on Monday while Ambler has been troubled by a chest injury for some time. Scott Caley, who has missed a couple of matches with a shoulder injury, is a very capable deputy in the number one shirt while talented trio Ben Kendall, Mark Boothroyd and Simeon Hoyle are added to the squad.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Under 9s
February 19, 2010
Will commence training again on Saturday 20th February at 9.00am. Martin Scrimshaw will take the sessions alongside Matthew Smithies and Anthony Waite. Players new and old are welcome.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

FORMER PLAYER TURNS BOXING PRO!
February 17, 2010
FORMER Great Britain amateur rugby league international Liam Walsh is to make his professional boxing debut next month. The ex-Siddal ARLFC man has gone into the paid ranks after a successful amateur career in which he won 19 of his 25 fights. Walsh will fight at welterweight at Bolton's Reebok Stadium on the afternoon of Sunday, March 14 when his opponent could be another pro debutant, Sam Horton from Wales. Walsh had had a big Halifax following as an amateur and he is hoping for the same backing in his pro career. His aggressive, go-forward style should lend itself to the pro game. Tickets for the show are available from Walsh on 07834 777415 or his ex- boxer father Pat on 07742 248557. Tickets are �30 and the bill also includes a title fight - a rematch after a disputed but exciting first contest between Alex Matvienko and Omar Gumati. Walsh is also on the lookout for sponsorship.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL DRAW DONCASTER IN CARNEGIE CHALLENGE CUP 3RD ROUND
February 16, 2010
Carnegie Challenge Cup 3rd round draw The draw for the third round of the Carnegie Challenge Cup was made in Gateshead this evening. The draw in full is as follows: Widnes Vikings v Wigan St Judes Oldham Roughyeds v Blackwood Bulldogs Gateshead Thunder v York City Knights London Skolars v Limoux Doncaster RLFC v Siddal Rochdale Hornets v Lezignan Drighlington v Dewsbury Rams Batley Bulldogs v Leeds Metropolitan University Royal Navy v Blackpool Panthers Featherstone Rovers v Workington Town Warrington Wizards v Swinton Lions Leigh Miners Rangers v Whitehaven Sheffield Eagles v Thatto Heath Crusaders Ovenden v Halifax RLFC Barrow Raiders v Hunslet Warriors Keighley Cougars v Toulouse Olympique Leigh East v Hunslet Hawks Leigh Centurions v Wath Brow Hornets Ties to be played over the weekend of March 6 and 7.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 34 OULTON 30
February 13, 2010
Siddal produced the comebacks of all comebacks to win 34 - 30 and be in the hat for round 3. After being 30 - 10 down with less than 20 minutes left, the home side finally got their act together. See reports for more............................................LEE Greenwood is demanding a significant improvement from National Conference League champions Siddal for tomorrow's second round home game with fellow Premier Division side Oulton Raiders (1.30). The coach described his side's inability to finish off their openings in last week's 18-6 National Cup home triumph over minnows Birstall Victoria as "laughable" and knows his men need to step up a gear as the business part of the season gets under way. "It is definitely time for us to start raising our game," said Greenwood, whose men have also accounted for lower level pair Halifax Irish and Saddleworth Rangers in cup matches this year. "Since Christmas we've beaten three teams we were expected to beat and the fact that we haven't played particularly well hasn't cost us." He added: "At this time last year we went on a really good run to finish top of the league, play Swinton in the Challenge Cup and win the National Cup. We need to do the same again, but every game from now on is going to be tough so we need to improve." Siddal will start warm favourites to confirm their recent superiority over Oulton and go into Tuesday's draw at Gateshead, when this week's13 amateur qualifiers are joined by 20 Co-operative Championships clubs - including Halifax - and three clubs from the French Federation. Siddal beat Oulton 26-6 at home in their last league game on December 12 and were completing a double over the bottom club, having won away by 34-4 on September 26. Raiders have only nine points from 19 games but Greenwood regards them as a threat, particularly if Siddal are as slipshod in attack as last week when several chances were bombed with players queueing up to score. "We certainly won't get as many opportunities this week and Oulton have a few good individuals in the backs who could make it difficult for us," he said. Gareth Blackburn is set to return in place of Matty Batley on the wing but fellow back Scott Caley needs another week off to rest his shoulder. Simeon Hoyle is poised to return much quicker than expected after a hand operation but may start with a run out in the seconds, meaning Sean McCormack and Stuart Proctor will need to be on their toes. Recent capture Ben Kendall is another player knocking on the first team door and ensuring there is competition for front row places.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 18 BIRSTALL VICTORIA 6
February 6, 2010
See reports................SIDDAL coach Lee Greenwood believes a brisk start is the key to snuffing out the hopes of competition minnows Birstall Victoria in the third round of the National Cup at Chevinedge tomorrow (2.0). Siddal are the holders while Yorkshire League Premier Division strugglers Victoria have probably done well to get so far, accounting for Leeds Trinity All Saints 16-10 in the second round a fortnight ago. Greenwood knows next to nothing about tomorrow's foes and said: "They will either come and give it a real go or be a bit intimidated. "If we give them some encouragement early on then it could be a long afternoon for us so we need a fast start." Siddal are desperate to play following the postponement of last Saturday's Conference match at home to Wath Brow Hornets due to a frozen pitch. They have a backlog of Conference fixtures and play Oulton in the Challenge Cup in eight days' time. Shaun Garrod is expected to return tomorrow after a minor back operation to partner Lee Gudor at half back and skipper Nick Smith is available again. Scott Caley is still out with a shoulder problem while Matt Batley is likely to keep his place on the wing. Greenwood says Gareth Blackburn should be in the firsts but will probably play for the seconds tomorrow as his selection continues to be influenced by a Pennine League rule which Siddal failed to get changed this week. Siddal have to be careful not to fall foul of a limit of four first teamers turning out for the seconds, who play in the Pennine League's Premier Division. Players are classed as first teamers after six appearances for the top side in the current season. They can be reclassified as second teamers but Greenwood says that is too long a process.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

PENNINE LEAGUE PREVIEW
February 5, 2010
GOLDFIELDS stages tomorrow's big game with Premier Division derby rivals Elland and Halifax Irish crossing swords. Irish won the first meeting 20-0 but Karl Fairbank's hosts will fancy their chances of a revenge win which would take them above their rivals in the table. Both sides managed a game last week and Elland's one-point defeat at National Conference League big guns Widnes St Maries in the National Cup was a better effort than Irish's 28-6 league defeat at lowly New Earswick. In the same division, Siddal A should have a relatively easy task away to next-to-bottom Kippax Welfare in their efforts to keep pace with top two Drighlington and Sharlston. In Division One, Illingworth can draw level on points with Emley Moor if they take the two points from their clash with the Huddersfield side at Mason Green. King Cross Park will look to strengthen their promotion bid with two points away to bottom club Wyke. There is also a Calderdale derby in Division Three with Ovenden A taking on Boothtown Terriers at Four Fields. This game kicks off at 1.0 after the Conference sprang a surprise by this week arranging a home fixture for Ovenden's first team. This match is real basement battle with both teams desperate for points to help them escape relegation. In Division Five, Stainland Stags and King Cross Park A both appear to have good winning opportunities at home to Keighley Town A and Meltham All Blacks respectively. A fourth attempt will be made to play the outstanding Joe Blackford Memorial Trophy quarter final between Brighouse Rangers A and Illingworth A. Waterlogging, snow and frost have been the culprits so far and last Saturday the teams were stripped and strapped up ready to play, only for the referee to deem the pitch unplayable at Russell Way. Both sides play in Division Six and Brighouse have won two close meetings this season. The winners will play Siddal B in March. In the Andrew Bennett Memorial Trophy, Elland A take on higher division opposition with a trip to Littleborough. Elland A haven't had much success against the Lancashire side over the past few seasons but the Greetland Community Centre outfit are riding high in the league and will believe a shock could be on the cards. Greetland All Rounders of Division Two take on Siddal B of Division Four at Spring Rock. The Chevinedge club has incredible strength in depth at the moment and Siddal have already beaten current Division Two leaders Brighouse Rangers in this competition. Greetland are bottom of that section so the hosts can expect a tough game. Another tie it is hoped will go ahead at the fourth attempt is the Pennine League's Supplementary Cup first round game between Halifax Irish A and South Bradford. The match was originally scheduled for late November. Other teams are involved in the second round of the competition tomorrow. Whitehall Warriors will welcome Guiseley Rangers, who also play in Division Five.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

HALIFAX CUP DRAWS MADE
February 2, 2010
THE Halifax League's big guns will clash in the semi final of the Joseph Fee Memorial Trophy after holders Siddal A were paired with three-time winners Halifax Irish in last night's draw. Siddal, inspired by former Leeds hooker Mick Shaw, took the title in May with a thrilling 22-19 win over Keighley Albion. In the other last four clash, Karl Fairbank's Elland will make the short journey to Greetland. Joseph Fee Memorial Trophy � Semi Finals: Siddal A v Halifax Irish, Greetland All Rounders v Elland Joe Blackford Memorial Supplementary Cup - Semi Finals: Siddal B v Brighouse Rangers A or Illingworth A, Keighley Albion A v West Craven Warriors Ties due to be played mid March
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SIDDAL v WATH BROW POSTPONED
January 30, 2010
Game off due to frozen pitch...........SIDDAL return to Premier Division action for the first time in seven weeks at home to Wath Brow Hornets tomorrow (2.0) with coach Lee Greenwood eager to crank up the pressure on Leigh East at the top of the table. Easts, who are due to come to Chevinedge on March 20, have a five point lead over the champions from two games more. They are in cup action tomorrow, giving Siddal a chance to eat into their lead if they can overcome the fourth-placed Cumbrians. Greenwood said: "We are looking to win every league game until the end of the season and if we do that we will finish top. I want Leigh East to come here knowing they have to beat us." Wath Brow are a formidable outfit, however, and are one of the few teams to beat Siddal this season, having triumphed 10-6 on their own ground on October 24. "We probably should have sneaked it," said Greenwood, whose side led 6-4 with 15 minutes to go, only to fall to a try from scrum half Ryan Robb on a rare Hornets attack. "It was a slow game which gave their big guys a chance to get on top," said Greenwood. "We'll be looking to speed the game up and tire their big forwards." Greenwood pinpointed scrum half Robb as a dangerman and is looking for Siddal, who won 26-6 at Oulton on December 12 in their last league game, to step up on their two cup displays since. Siddal have comfortably beaten Halifax Irish in the Fee Halifax Cup and Saddleworth Rangers in the Challenge Cup since their extended Christmas break without hitting top form. "We'll have to pick it up on both those performances because I really rate Wath Brow as a good side," Greenwood added. James Simeunovich will captain the side in the absence of Nick Smith, whose place in the pack will be taken by the returning Adie Leek. Sean McCormack will partner Lee Gudor at half-back while Shaun Garrod continues to recover from a minor back operation while Simeon Hoyle and Scott Caley will also be missing. Hoyle could be out for some time after surgery on his hands this week, following an accident at work, while Caley has a shoulder injury. Stuart Proctor will play at hooker and Gareth and Shaun Blackburn are in contention for places in the backs
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CARNEGIE CHALLENGE CUP 2ND ROUND DRAW MADE
January 26, 2010
Siddal have been handed a home tie against Oulton Raiders while The Royal Navy will be looking to steer a course straight into the third round of the Carnegie Challenge Cup, after securing a plum home tie when the second round draw was made aboard HMS Victory in Portsmouth earlier today. The senior service will face the winners of the delayed first round tie involving West London Sharks and Nottingham Outlaws, both of whom will have to push the boat out to have any chance of playing against professional opposition in the third round. Elsewhere, Scottish champions Edinburgh Eagles have an opportunity to leave their Welsh counterparts, Blackwood Bulldogs high and dry while The Army know they will need all hands on deck for their tie against The RAF or Warrington Wizards. There are stormy seas ahead for some of the clubs from the sport�s traditional heartland, including Wath Brow Hornets and East Hull, who know the ropes of the 113-year-old competition better than most. The Carnegie Challenge Cup Second Round fixtures are split into two pools and will be played over the weekend of February 13 and 14. Tickets for the Carnegie Challenge Cup Final which is at Wembley Stadium on Saturday August 28 are now available with prices starting from just �21. Until March 26 the RFL is offering all those purchasing final tickets a free upgrade on all price bands, expect �76 tickets. For more information, call the RFL Ticket Office on 0844 856 1113 or visit www.rugbyleaguetickets.co.uk Carnegie Challenge Cup 2nd Round Draw Pool A Stanningley or Wigan St Judes v Milford Marlins Rochdale Mayfield v Leigh East Castleford Panthers v Thatto Heath Crusaders Ovenden v Myton Warriors or Halton Cross Simms Wath Brow Hornets v East Hull Siddal v Oulton Drighlington or West Hull v Castleford Lock Lane Normanton or Wigan St Pats v Hunslet Warriors Hull Dockers or Pilkington Recs v Shaw Cross or Leigh Miners Rangers Pool B British Police v Leeds Met RAF or Warrington Wizards v The Army Edinburgh Eagles v Blackwood Bulldogs The Navy v West London Sharks or Nottingham Outlaws
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NATIONAL CUP 3RD ROUND DRAW MADE
January 24, 2010
Siddal have drawn Birstall Victoria of the Yorkshire League in round 3 of the BARLA National Cup. Game is to be played 6/2/10 at Siddal. For full draw copy and paste the link below: http://barla.org.uk/Competitions/Competition.asp?id=6
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3 OUT OF 3 FOR THE OPEN AGE
January 23, 2010
Siddal 1st team got their Challenge Cup run up and running with a good win at Saddleworth while the A and B teams both progressed in the Halifax cups. See reports for more info...SIDDAL get on the Challenge Cup trail tomorrow when they travel to Conference Division One pacesetters Saddleworth Rangers in the first round (2pm kick off). The Chevinedge men won 16-2 away to the Greater Manchester club in midweek last March en route to National Cup glory but skipper Nick Smith has warned his men not to expect an easy ride. "It was a pretty close game last year and they have probably improved a bit since then," said Smith. "The pitch is in a valley bottom and it is not very big. They usually have quite a big set of forwards and they are going well so it is likely to be tough." No amateur side holds any terrors for Siddal, however, after their Conference title and National Cup double last season. Although half-back Shaun Garrod, the star man in last year's win at Saddleworth, is likely to again be an absentee with a back problem, coach Lee Greenwood has an embarrassment of riches. Siddal came through last Saturday's 36-6 National Cup win against Halifax Irish without any new injuries while BARLA tourist Ben Kendall, a new signing from Thornhill, was one of several players who impressed in the seconds' Halifax Cup win over Keighley Albion. Looking back on last week's performance Smith said: "It was good to get a game in after not playing for five or six weeks. We were a bit rusty in the first half but in the last 20 minutes we clicked into gear." Siddal had many fine moments last season and one of them came in the Challenge Cup when they so nearly embarrassed Swinton's professionals in front of a four-figure Shay crowd. The competition is also a potential money spinner and although Siddal's form temporarily dipped after the 10-6 Swinton defeat, Smith said the chance to test themselves against good players was always an incentive to do well in the Challenge Cup. While Siddal trail only Leigh East in the Premier Division, Saddleworth have 24 points from 15 games to lead the section below and Smith added: "It looks as though we will be playing them again in the league next season." The players' bus is leaving at 11:45am and supporters are welcome.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

2 WINS FOR SIDDAL
January 18, 2010
IT may not have been the rip-roaring derby many people had hoped for when the draw for the second round of the National Cup was made but most were grateful just to get some action after a five-week break. Siddal had a snow-clearing team on stand-by overnight but didn't need to mobilise it as the Chevinedge pitch miraculously thawed, enabling several hundred spectactors to watch the host club's top two teams make successful starts to trophy defences. The firsts scored five tries in the last 28 minutes to finally break the resolve of a determined Irish team while the seconds saw off Keighley Albion 28-0 in the Fee Halifax Cup on a parallel pitch, Albion like Irish having forfeited home advantage in an effort to limit fixture congestion. It is going to be an important few months for Lee Greenwood's Siddal firsts, who have the target of matching last season's achievement of winning the National Cup, topping the National Conference League and then winning the Grand Final. Irish gave them a decent first workout of 2010. The visitors are not quite the force they were two years ago, when they won the Pennine League and completed a hat-trick of Halifax Cup triumphs. However, Anthony Irvine's men believe they are capable of winning some silverware this season and they will have taken heart from Saturday's bold showing without key men Graham Charlesworth and Joss Bentley. Siddal half back Sean Garrod was another absentee after a minor back problem and he was missed in a home attack which misfired for much of the contest. Irish still had hopes of an upset when they pressed the home line trailing only 10-6 around the 50-minute mark but Siddal moved the ball effectively in the last half hour to run away with it. All the points in the first half came from kicks, which reflected the quality of both defences and a lack of offensive fluidity. Siddal loose forward Andy Bowman crossed at the side of the posts after six minutes but was called back for a forward pass. However, Irish twice failed to field 'bombs' from GB tourist Lee Gudor close to their line and tries for Stuart Proctor and Brad Attwood were the result. Shaun Blackburn converted the second of them for a 10-0 lead after 19 minutes and the hosts appeared to be well on their way. Irish replied four minutes later, when scrum half Chris Holroyd put in a grubber kick on the last tackle and fullback Will Midgley dribbled the ball over the line before touching down. Winger Michael Midgley's goal kick was well-struck and accurate. Irish front rowers Kevin Smith, Paul O'Byrne and Nick Cassell were working hard while fellow forward Chris Muxlow never stopped tackling and Siddal became careless in possession. They did force Irish to drop out twice from under their own posts towards the end of the first half, but the visitors survived and continued to hold their own until the 53rd minute when Siddal at last put a flowing handling move together. Sean McCormack, Adie Leek and Bowman combined well over 50 metres for the latter to touch down and Blackburn's conversion made it 16-6. It took another 10 minutes before Siddal started to make their quality pay. The impressive Leek scored a quick double, Luke Garnett crossed from Simeon Hoyle's short pass and Attwood grabbed his second with four minutes left. Blackburn converted two of the last four tries. Greenwood was happy that Siddal had got a game under their belts but disappointed with the quality of their attack. "The last 20 to 25 minutes was okay but apart from that it was pretty flat," he said. "However, we have trained twice in the last four weeks and had no game for five weeks so we were probably expecting too much."
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GAMES ON!
January 16, 2010
Todays National Cup derby between Halifax Irish and Siddal, scheduled for Irish's usual Savile Park venue, has been switched to Siddal. Both clubs, who have gone for several weeks without a game, have agreed to move the fixture to a playable Chevinedge. "Both clubs just want to get the game on," said Irish manager Pete Emmett. Siddal are already hosting one game today on their second pitch after Keighley Albion agreed to reverse their Fee Cup fixture with Siddal A for similar reasons. Both games will kick off at 2pm. After an inspection this morning, both pitches are totally playable and there is no snow on either field.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

VOLUNTEERS NOT NEEDED
January 16, 2010
The rain throughout the night has seen all the snow melt and we no longer require volunteers to clear the pitches. After an inspection this morning, both pitches are playable for the switched games.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

1ST TEAM NEWS
January 14, 2010
CONFERENCE champions Siddal will have a new, talented player in their ranks when they eventually return to action. The title-gunning Chevinedge men have signed BARLA tourist Ben Kendall from division-lower Thornhill Trojans. The 22-year-old member of the Yorkshire squad can play at either second row or prop forward and looks a useful addition to an already powerful squad. Coach Lee Greenwood said Kendall had been on Siddal's radar for some time after a recommendation from the Chevinedge club's Great Britain player Lee Gudor, after the pair had been on tour together. "When I spoke to him before he said he was interested but not at that point as Thornhill had contributed to him going on a GB tour," said Greenwood. Thornhill have since slipped out of the Premier and are third from bottom of the middle section, prompting Kendall to have a rethink. "He got in touch with me a few weeks ago and said he had had enough there," said Greenwood. "He has looked good in training and has been coming from Mirfield so he is definitely up for it. "I remember him from a midweek game last season when he made a couple of breaks and caused us a few problems. He is a big, strong lad and will definitely be fighting for a place." Kendall's arrival offsets the loss of back rower Gareth Jones back to Siddal's local rivals Ovenden before Christmas. Greenwood, meanwhile, is desperate for his side to get back into action before the fixtures pile up to an unmanageable level. Siddal trained at the sports centre at the former Rydings School last Saturday and at Halifax High School on Wednesday night with 20-plus players in attendance. "We did a bit ball work and fitness training," said Greenwood, who echoed the views of many when adding: "We're very bored of the weather now."
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ALL GAMES OFF
January 9, 2010
All games scheduled for this weekend have been postponed. Please see each teams' page for next weeks fixtures.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

New Year's Day Race Day
January 1, 2010
We will be holding our usual New Year's Day Race Day to help you have a "hair of the dog" and overcome your New Year's Eve hangover. The runners and riders for the 1st race will come under starters orders from 3.0pm onwards. If you want to buy a horse they cost �10.00 and can be bought by speaking with Paul McCormack (Stores).
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New Year's Eve Party
December 31, 2009
Tickets are now on sale to all members for this year's New Year's Eve bash. Another superb night is in store. The night will be hosted this year by Bitter & Twisted. A superb carvery buffet will once again be served up by our very own Turner & Long Catering Plc. You can purchase your tickets from Eddie Golding-Smith or Paul McCormack.
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Xmas Raffle Winners - 2009
December 22, 2009
1st Prize �500 Cash - No 3997 2nd Prize �300 Pinch Stool - No 4000 3rd Prize Xmas Hamper - No 4830 4th Prize Sandwich Toaster - No 3138 5th Prize Bells Whisky - No 3663 6th Prize Bottle of Vodka - No 3307 7th Prize Wine Glasses - No 4534 8th Prize Siddal T Shirt - No 4447 9th Prize Tin of Roses - No 3133 10th Prize Bottle of Wine - No 4481 Please call into the club with your winning ticket to claim your prize if you are a lucky winner. Happy Xmas Everybody from all at Siddal ARLFC
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Xmas and New Year Opening Hours
December 21, 2009
Xmas Eve - CLOSED Xmas Day - 12 noon to 3.30pm Boxing Day - from 2pm onwards Sunday 27th - Open as normal New Year's Day - from 1.0pm
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LAST GAME OF 2010 FOR SIDDAL @ INCE ROSE BRIDGE
December 19, 2009
COACH Lee Greenwood believes a repeat of last week's performance at Oulton Raiders should be enough to earn Siddal another valuable two points on the road at Ince Rose Bridge tomorrow (2.30). While the champions' home record means Greenwood approaches Chevinedge games with confidence, the side's patchy away form has left him in doubt of what to expect on the side's travels. However, Greenwood was happy with last week's 26-6 win, a result which gave second-placed Siddal more breathing space over the teams below them but left them still five points behind leaders Leigh East with two games in hand. "We played pretty well last week. We got a fast start - we were 14 points up at half time - and we'll be looking to do the same again," he said. If Siddal can do that, Greenwood believes the team's defence can do the rest as the sting vanishes from attacks on what could be another heavy pitch. Tomorrow's side is likely to be very similar to that on duty at Oulton with no new injuries and just a doubt over Adie Leek, who has been used as a back rower coming off the bench. Leek has been unable to work and train this week due to illness. Ince Rose Bridge have already lost 42-4 at Siddal following promotion last season but Greenwood isn't reading too much into that result as it was a start of season midweek contest. The Wigan side are 10th in the table and drew 16-16 at home to York Acorn last week. Greenwood added: "It will be tough. They have improved a lot and we will need our forwards to provide a platform." The coach also emphasised the need to keep a close eye on home half-backs Ryan and Tony Baker. The bus will leave at 11:30am and all supporters are welcome but must bring a Xmas jumper to wear for the way back!
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DUBAI 7's KNEES UP REVIEW!
December 14, 2009
SIDDAL veteran Martin Scrimshaw has hailed an "unbelievable experience" after returning from last weekend's Dubai Sevens tournament. Siddal had four players in last weekend's iconic tournament, with BARLA international Lee Gudor featuring for the national side and Scrimshaw, centre Richard Pearson and prop Gary Lewis turning out for a BARLA over 35s selection. "They have four or five different competitions, all centred around the main union one that England, Australia and New Zealand play in," said Scrimshaw, who spent a total of eight days in the searing heat of the middle east. "Gudor was playing in the international overseas section and we were in the international over 35s. "BARLA sent an email round asking for lads over 35 who were still playing and we trained for a month or so before they whittled it down to the final squad of 17. "The main stadium over there holds 65,000 people and there are six different pitches around that all with games on them. "During the group stages, there were a total of 160 teams playing from nine in the morning to nine at night, so it's a massive competition. "It was just fantastic, an unbelievable experience." Scrimshaw's side made the quarter finals of their competition, coming up against some familiar names in the process. "We won our first two games, against a Swansea University side and a Russian team, but we lost to a select side that had Graham Steadman and Gregor Townsend in there," said Scrimshaw. "Marty Moana was there too, and the winners had Apollo Perelini and Austin Healey playing for them." The Siddal teammates were back on Chevinedge duty today, Gudor and Scrimshaw at Oulton in the National Conference and Lewis and Pearson in the Pennine League. "It will be a bit of a culture shock, that's for sure," said Scrimshaw, who admitted to "shivering in his thermals" as he struggled to acclimatise to yesterday's freezing weather.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

PENNINE LEAGUE PREVIEW
December 12, 2009
Chevinedge looks the place to be tomorrow afternoon if you are looking for a feisty derby with Siddal A taking on Elland in the Pennine Premier Division. It's been more than two years since the pair last squared up to each other in league action. Siddal have had the slightly better season so far but Elland are sure to put up a good fight. Also in the top flight, Halifax Irish take on St Josephs at Savile Park. There was nothing between the sides at Fartown a couple of months ago whenn they fought out a 24-24 draw. Calderdale's two sides in Division One are both away with King Cross Park at what promises to be a chilly Emley Moor and Illingworth playing just behind Odsal Stadium against West Bowling A. In Division Two, Brighouse Rangers will be looking for a repeat of their tremendous victory away to Wortley Dragons earlier in the season when the Leeds outfit make the return visit to Russell Way. Greetland All Rounders have a great chance of getting their first league victory of the season with Stanningley A's visit to Spring Rock. The Leeds side have been struggling of late and this looks like the ideal time to play them. Ovenden A are at home in Division Three against Dudley Hill A, whilst in the same division Boothtown Terriers are away at Lindley Swifts. In Division Four, Elland A are at home to Sheffield Hillsborough Hawks in a real battle, and if Siddal B also want to be involved in the promotion race come the end of the season then a win at home to West Craven Warriors is a must. In Division Five, Stainland Stags and Whitehall Warriors meet for the second week running, but this time at Stainland. Warriors were narrow winners last week so expect an even closer game this week. King Cross Park A are at home to Guiseley Rangers and Halifax Irish A are away at Keighley Town A In Division Six, two local sides meet again at Mason Green where Illingworth A take on Brighouse Rangers A. The draws for the two open age Halifax ARL cup competitions were made at this week's monthly meeting. Siddal, who beat Keighley Albion in the Joseph Fee Memorial Trophy final at Old Brodleians in May, will meet Ovenden if they can account for Albion again first. Joseph Fee Memorial Trophy, quarter finals: Greetland All Rounders v Keighley Town, Brighouse Rangers v Elland, Halifax Irish v King Cross Park, Keighley Albion or Siddal v Ovenden. Joe Blackford Memorial Trophy quarter finals: Brighouse Rangers A v Illingworth A, Stainland Stags v Siddal B, West Craven Warriors v Elland A, Keighley Albion v Whitehall Warriors.
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SIDDAL RAID OULTON!
December 12, 2009
Siddal were comfortable winners by 26 - 6 at Oulton, see reports. SIDDAL'S away form will come under scrutiny again tomorrow when they travel to Oulton Raiders in the Premier Division (2.0). Lee Greenwood's champs returned from a two-week enforced break due to the weather with a thumping 40-6 home win over Leigh Miners Rangers last weekend, a result which took them up to second place at their visitors' expense. A trip to the bottom club tomorrow would appear to present a golden opportunity to keep the pressure on five-point leaders Leigh East, who have played two games more than the Chevinedge side and head to Hull Dockers tomorrow. However, Greenwood knows his men can take nothing for granted against foes who were on the right end of the division's shock result of the season when they won at Easts a few weeks ago. Greenwood said: "Our home form is always good but we can throw in the odd patchy performance away. "We have a lot of away games left, particularly now we have been draw away in both cups, and that is one area we need to improve." Greenwood said the last thing Siddal wanted to do was to allow Leigh East to stretch their lead over them prior to the Chevinedge clash between the teams later in the season. The coach was pleased with the way Siddal moved up a gear after Miners pulled back to within six points after the break and believes there is still a lot of improvement to come from his side. "A lot of it was down to individual skills last week," said Greenwood. "We have been making a lot of changes and if we can get more of a settled side we can produce some much better team performances in the long run." Star half-back Lee Gudor returns after a sevens trip to Dubai, meaning Sean McCormack is battling for the hooker's role with Simeon Hoyle. Steve Hope has a knee injury and is likely to be out for a couple of weeks so that could leave the door open for either Mark Boothroyd or Gareth Blackburn. Oulton only lost 14-12 at East Hull last week and Greenwood said: "It will be a tough one because they always raise their game against us, particularly at home."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

CARNEGIE CHALLENGE CUP DRAWS MADE
December 8, 2009
The draws for the Preliminary and First Rounds of the 2010 Carnegie Challenge Cup have been made at Leeds Metropolitan University by two of this year�s cup winners, Lee Briers and Michael Monaghan of Warrington Wolves. The draw was as follows: Preliminary Round � to be played on 2 and 3 January Pool A Leigh Miners Rangers V Millom ARLFC York Acorn ARLFC V Skirlaugh ARLFC Orchard Park & Greenwood V Wath Brow Hornets Waterhead ARLFC V Sharlston Rovers Egremont Rangers V Oulton Raiders Widnes St Maries V Myton Warriors ARLFC Yorkshire Cup Winners V Leigh East Oldham St Annes V Wigan St Judes ARLFC West Bowling ARLFC V Normanton Knights ARLFC Wigan St Patricks V Broughton Red Rose Pool B Nottingham Outlaws V Hull University Warrington Wizards V Birmingham University Leeds Met University V St Mary�s University 1st Round Draw � to be played on 23 and 24 January. Pool A Orchard Park & Greenwood or Wath Brow V Kells Stanningley V Oldham St Annes or Wigan St Judes Bradford Dudley Hill V Castleford Panthers Castleford Lock Lane V Thornhill Trojans Shaw Cross Sharks V Leigh Miners Rangers or Millom Crosfields V Rochdale Mayfield Ince Rose Bridge V Egremont Rangers or Oulton Raiders Milford Marlins V Eastmoor Dragons Heworth V Hunslet Warriors Saddleworth Rangers V Siddal York Acorn or Skirlaugh V Thatto Heath Crusaders East Hull V Stanley Rangers Eccles & Salford Juniors V Yorkshire Cup Winners or Leigh East Hull Dockers V Halton Simms Cross West Bowling or Normanton Knights V Wigan St Patricks or Broughton Red Rose East Leeds V Ovenden Waterhead or Sharlston Rovers V West Hull Widnes St Maries or Myton Warriors V Lancashire Cup Winners Pool B RAF V Warrington Wizards or Birmingham University British Police V Dewsbury Celtic West London Sharks V Nottingham Outlaws or Hull University Featherstone Lions V Army Leeds Met University or St Mary�s University V Loughborough University Gloucestershire University V Edinburgh Eagles Northumbria University V Navy Blackwood Bulldogs V Edge Hill University For the Preliminary Round of the competition 62 sides were split into two pools. Pool A consisted of 46 teams - 38 National Conference League clubs, the five regional winners, the Lancashire and Yorkshire Cup winners and Broughton Red Rose. Ten matches were drawn with 26 sides receiving a bye to the First Round. Pool B contained 16 teams � the British Police, eight University teams, Scottish champions, Welsh champions and five Rugby League conference teams. Three matches were drawn with 10 clubs receiving a bye to the first round where they were joined by three service teams. The first round of the draw again saw sides split into two pools � 18 matches were drawn from Pool A and eight matches from Pool B. No clubs received byes in the First Round.
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Lions go out in Dubai
December 5, 2009
5/12/09 THE PARTIES OVER BARLA GREAT BRITAIN LIONS 5 AQUA MARINE DUBAI 12 The BARLA Great Britain Lions journey into the unknown is over after a 12-5 defeat to Aqua Marine Dubai after a last minute defeat as the semi final looked to be heading into sudden death extra time. It was a brave and superb effort by the Lions who took the lead and had opportunities in the second to take the lead. But they can hold their heads up high on their performances over the three day tournament at the Emirates Airline Dubai Sevens and have caught the imagination of the spectators throughout that time. The Lions got off to a perfect start taking the game to Aqua and a superb move saw Aaron Lowe (Barrow Island) score in the corner for a 5-0 lead Two minutes later though Aqua responded with a try in the corner and the game was level at the break. Against a very good side the Lions had three half chances to regain the lead but just couldn�t get the ball to hand at crucial times. But as the game was ticking into sudden death extra time Aqua showed their experience at this type of seven and scored a converted try to reach the final of the International Overseas Plate Trophy. Even in the defeats of both the Lions and the Bulldogs the descision to accept the invitation to the Dubai Seven�s as been vindicated with the response and reaction of the Dubai public both ex-pats, locals and fans from all over the world. The sides have been made welcome by all participating sides at all levels in the competitions and received coaching and assistance from some of the best coaches in the world. Albeit that this is a rugby union tournament a lot more people are aware of rugby league which will help Wayne McDonald to foster and grow the code in Dubai. The sides have been great ambassadors for their country and their sport and this week rugby league has been the winner. BARLA Great Britain Lions: 1. James Craven (Thornhill Trojans), 2. James Dallimore (Wigan St Cuthberts), 3. Ryan Fieldhouse (Leigh East), 4. Mark Jones (Leigh Miners Rangers), 5. Scott Lofthouse (Kells), 6. Aaron Lowe (Barrow Island), 7. Carl Puckering (East Hull), 8. Michael Johnson (Myton Warriors), 9. Shaun Foster (Wigan St Cuthberts), 10. Trevor Penrose (Capt) (Skirlaugh), 11. Shaun Quinn (Thatto Heath Crusaders), 12. Lee Gudor (Siddal). Tries: Lowe
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SIDDAL 40 LEIGH MINERS 6
December 5, 2009
SIDDAL will be looking to play their first game for three weeks in the Premier Division of the National Conference when Leigh Miners visit Chevinedge tomorrow. Lee Greenwood's side have seen their last two fixtures against Hull Dockers and Wigan St Judes fall victim to the weather, a brace of postponements that has seen them slip to third on the league ladder. Victory this weekend would haul them above the Miners into second, behind pace-setters Leigh East. "It's an important game for us," said captain Nick Smith. "It's only a point separating us from Miners, but we're five behind Easts and even with a game in hand we need to keep that gap from getting too big. "Miners are a good side, they were up there for most of last season, but faded a bit towards the end. "They seem to have brought a few younger players in though and it's paying dividends for them. "We were in front when we played them over at their place but let things slip and then they won it with a penalty late on. "It should be a good hit out for us." Smith expects Siddal to be at full strength, with the exception of international half back Lee Gudor, who is in Dubai with a BARLA sevens squad.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Dubai Update
December 4, 2009
4/12/09 THE LIONS ROAR INTO THE PLATE SEMI�S BARLA GREAT BRITAIN LIONS 56 POTO 0 Whatever coaching tips that England A Coach Stuart Lancaster, All Blacks legend and 7�s Coach Gordon Titching, Apollo Perelini and Paul Sculthorpe passed to the Lions this afternoon certainly worked. They roared to a 56-0 thrashing of Poto of Portugal to reach the semi finals of the International Overseas Plate Trophy tomorrow afternoon at 1.00pm. That will be a far different game when they play guest side Aqua Marine Dubai made up of paid professional players and that will test the Lions and their rugby union sevens education. They scored converted four tries in each half and started the game of with a bang with a try after thirty seconds from Ryan Fieldhouse (Leigh East) with Carl Puckering (East Hull) kicking the first of his five conversions. On three minutes the Lions doubled their score with Scott Lofthouse going over the tryline and from the restart the game was as good as over when James Craven (Thornhill Trojans) went 60 meters for a great converted try. In the seventh and final minute of the half good hands saw the ball passed out to Lee Gudor (Siddal) and he added the extras for good measure. Poto couldn�t live with the Lions and the scoring continued at regular intervals in the second half beginning after nine minutes when Craven went in for his second of the night and he also added the extras to make it 35-0. A minute later saw the try of the match which was started by Shaun Foster (Wigan St Cuthberts) and finished off by him with an amazing turn of speed for a forward to go 70 meters to the delight of the large gathering of spectators. On twelve minutes the score raced up 49-0 as James Dallimore (Wigan St Cuthberts finished off superb handling skills and also added the extras. Poto were literally out on their feet with no answer to this display of running rugby and the final try came on thirteen minutes when Puckering finished off another bout of running rugby and handling to bring up the half century and then kick his final goal. A minute later the agony was over for Poto as the hooter sounded, for the Lions it was great applause from the crowd as the adventure into the unknown continues. Mick Turner BARLA Great Britain Lions International Manager, �We have had some setbacks on the way but what a way to finish the second day racking up over fifty points and not conceding. I would like to thank everyone here who has helped us with tips and advice of how to play the game. �Our semi final won�t be anything like this game, I watched Aqua Marine Dubai�s quarter final victory and they looked very good. We will go in as underdogs but underdogs have won before.� BARLA Great Britain Lions: 1. James Craven (Thornhill Trojans), 2. James Dallimore (Wigan St Cuthberts), 3. Ryan Fieldhouse (Leigh East), 4. Mark Jones (Leigh Miners Rangers), 5. Scott Lofthouse (Kells), 6. Aaron Lowe (Barrow Island), 7. Carl Puckering (East Hull), 8. Michael Johnson (Myton Warriors), 9. Shaun Foster (Wigan St Cuthberts), 10. Trevor Penrose (Capt) (Skirlaugh), 11. Shaun Quinn (Thatto Heath Crusaders), 12. Lee Gudor (Siddal). Tries: Craven 2, Fieldhouse, Lofthouse, Gudor, Foster, Dallimore, Puckering Goals: Puckering 5, Gudor, Craven, Dallimore 4/12/09 LEGENDS OVERCOME BULLDOG SPIRIT BARLA BULLDOGS 7 BALI LEGENDS 14 The Bulldogs adventure in the International Vets Trophy is over after this quarter final defeat at the hands of the Bali Legends 14-7. In what turned out to be a grueling contest between two very competitive sides the Bulldogs couldn�t get back into the game against the Legends who were captained by Brad Hepi former New Zealand Maoris, Hull FC, Castleford Tigers, Workington Town, St George Illawarra and London Scottish player. The Bulldogs weren�t fazed by Hepi but they couldn�t stop the legends taking the lead with a converted try after three minutes. The Legends doubled the lead two minutes later to make it 14-0 and it looked like being a long afternoon for the Bulldogs. They once again showed the spirit they have used throughout the competition and battled back on six minutes when Steve Morton (Queens) scored his fourth try of the tournament and Steve Perry (Roose Pioneers) added the extras to make it 14-7 at the break. The Bulldogs came out with all guns blazing in the second half but try as they might they couldn�t get the next crucial score to level the game up. The Bulldogs defence also held firm when questioned resulting in a pointless second half. Whilst the Legends march on the Bulldogs can reflect on what they have achieved over the two of the tournament were they have won many admirers for the style of play and attitude to the game. BARLA Bulldogs: 1. Richard Pearson (Siddal), 2. Peter Livett (Woolston Rovers), 3. Phil Jackson (Millom), 4. Dale Semple (Broughton Red Rose), 5. Paul Haythorn (Barrow Island), 6. Craig Irvine (Whitworth Spartans), 7. Geoff Lofthouse (New Earswick), 8 Paul Dean (Hindpool Tigers), 9. Martin Scrimshaw (Siddal), 10. Steve Morton (Queens), 11. Johnny Numa (Shaw Cross Sharks), 12. Steve Perry (Roose Pioneers), 13. Kenny Embleton (Heworth), 14. John Welch (Woolston Rovers), 15. Gary Lewis (Siddal), 16. Sean High (Kells) Tries: Morton Goals: Perry 1 4/12/09 BULLDOGS FRIGHTEN THE STEELERS IN DEFEAT BARLA BULLDOGS 7 BONE STEELERS 17 The BARLA Bulldogs although beaten this morning by group winners the Bone Steelers are through to the knock out stages of the main event in the International Vets Trophy barring a miracle freak score by either Swansea University Old Boys or Moscow Lads. Those two sides meet later today and to leapfrog the Bulldogs in second spot the Old Boys have to win by 78pts or the Lads by 101pts. Although the Bulldogs lost their only group game to group winners the Steelers they certainly gave their conquerors a fright. Former Great Britain, Castleford Tigers fullback Graham Steadman (Scotland RFU defensive coach and former Ireland RFU defensive coach and Assistant Coach of the Great Britain rugby league side) and Gregor Townsend former Scotland RFU captain (now on the coaching staff of Scotland RFU) proved to be the difference between the two sides. The side containing several ex Scottish international and Southern Hemisphere internationals had supremacy in the scrums and made it hard work for the Bulldogs. They realised how hard the task was to be when the Steelers took the lead with unconverted try in the opening minute and it got worse two minutes later as the Steelers doubled their lead with a second unconverted try to make it 10-0. But the quick learning Bulldogs got back into the game on the stroke of half time when Paul Dean (Hindpool Tigers) forced his way over and Steve Perry added the extras to make it 10-7 to cut the lead to three points It was game on but the Steelers showed their experience scoring the final try and conversion of the game after 11 minutes. BARLA Bulldogs: 1. Richard Pearson (Siddal), 2. Peter Livett (Woolston Rovers), 3. Phil Jackson (Millom), 4. Dale Semple (Broughton Red Rose), 5. Paul Haythorn (Barrow Island), 6. Craig Irvine (Whitworth Spartans), 7. Geoff Lofthouse (New Earswick), 8 Paul Dean (Hindpool Tigers), 9. Martin Scrimshaw (Siddal), 10. Steve Morton (Queens), 11. Johnny Numa (Shaw Cross Sharks), 12. Steve Perry (Roose Pioneers), 13. Kenny Embleton (Heworth), 14. John Welch (Woolston Rovers), 15. Gary Lewis (Siddal), 16. Sean High (Kells) Tries: Dean Goals: Perry 1 4/12/09 THE LIONS PUT ON A PLATE BY MOSCOW BARLA GREAT BRITAIN LIONS 5 MOSCOW REGION 27 The BARLA Great Britain Lions lost their second and crucial group game to the Moscow Region 27-5 and they will now have to play in the International Overseas Plate Trophy quarter finals rather than the International Overseas Trophy. In a game they had to win the Lions were taught a lesson in rugby union sevens by a very quick and smart Russian side. The Lions gave their all at the beginning of the first half but were undone by three unconverted Region tries in three minutes before the break to trail 15-0. But the never say die attitude of the Lions saw Michael Johnson (Myton Warriors) drive through for a try which cut the lead to ten points. As the Lions battled to comeback they were thwarted by a Region converted try and a fourth and final try for the Russian side to progress into the International Overseas Trophy. BARLA Great Britain Lions: 1. James Craven (Thornhill Trojans), 2. James Dallimore (Wigan St Cuthberts), 3. Ryan Fieldhouse (Leigh East), 4. Mark Jones (Leigh Miners Rangers), 5. Scott Lofthouse (Kells), 6. Aaron Lowe (Barrow Island), 7. Carl Puckering (East Hull), 8. Michael Johnson (Myton Warriors), 9. Shaun Foster (Wigan St Cuthberts), 10. Trevor Penrose (Capt) (Skirlaugh), 11. Shaun Quinn (Thatto Heath Crusaders), 12. Lee Gudor (Siddal). Tries: Johnson
Updated by siddal.arlfc.co.uk

Siddal Boys in Dubai
December 3, 2009
3/12/09 THE LIONS DESTINY IN THEIR OWN HANDS BARLA GREAT BRITAIN LIONS 38 WYVERN HARLEQUINS 0 The BARLA Great Britain Lions destiny appears to be in their own hands as to whether they will be involved in the knock out stages of the International Overseas Trophy or the Plate Finals of that competition on the opening day of the Emirates Airline Dubai Sevens . This after the Lions superb 38-0 victory over a brave Wyvern Harlequins this evening when the Lions bounced back from their opening defeat earlier in the day full of pride having learned from that loss. They now know that they must gain victory over the Moscow Region at 3.40pm tomorrow afternoon for their fate to be decided in what could be a tough physical battle, given the clash between the BARLA Bulldogs and Moscow Lads this morning, That is for tomorrow meanwhile the Lions showed what they could do with the ball in hand with this running display and they opened the scoring after two minutes when .n Emirates Airline Dubai Sevens this afternoon against when Michael Johnson (Myton Warriors) scored and Carl Puckering (East Hull) added the extras. From their next set the Lions doubled the lead when Shaun Quinn (Thatto Heath Crusaders) stormed over for a 14-0 advantage. The Lions continued with this attacking play which Harlequins had no answer to and further brace of tries were scored. On five minutes Lee Gudor (Siddal) went over for an unconverted try and just before half time James Dallimore (Wigan St Cuthberts) went in and Gudor added the extras to make it 26-0. Anxious that points difference may decide the group placings the Lions continued to take the game to their opponents and in the opening minute of the half great interpassing saw the ball flicked out to skipper Trevor Penrose (Skirlaugh) who went 60 meters for a superb try which was converted by Gudor. Three minutes later Puckering had the final word as he scored his side�s sixth try for the Lions to run out 38-0 victors. After the opening defeat they are now back in business with a bang. BARLA Great Britain Lions: 1. James Craven (Thornhill Trojans), 2. James Dallimore (Wigan St Cuthberts), 3. Ryan Fieldhouse (Leigh East), 4. Mark Jones (Leigh Miners Rangers), 5. Scott Lofthouse (Kells), 6. Aaron Lowe (Barrow Island), 7. Carl Puckering (East Hull), 8. Michael Johnson (Myton Warriors), 9. Shaun Foster (Wigan St Cuthberts), 10. Trevor Penrose (Capt) (Skirlaugh), 11. Shaun Quinn (Thatto Heath Crusaders), 12. Lee Gudor (Siddal). Tries: Johnson, Quinn, Gudor, Dallimore, Penrose, Puckering Goals: Puckering 2, Gudor 2 3/12/09 THE LIONS LOSE OPENER BARLA GREAT BRITAIN LIONS 7 WOODEN SPOON BLUES 21 The BARLA Great Britain Lions went down in their opening group game in the International Overseas Trophy in Emirates Airline Dubai Sevens this afternoon against the Wooden Spoon Blues. The Blues one of the side�s favourites to win the competition is allowed four Guinness Premiership players as guests and that showed in their side�s performance. The Lions conceded the opening converted try of the game after three minutes and two minutes later they were 14-0 down following their inexperience in the scrum when they lost possession and gifted the Blues a further try. But a minute later the Lions showed they were quick to adapt when Aaron Lowe (Barrow Island) went in for a try and Carl Puckering (East Hull) added the extras to make it 14-7. In the second half the Lions battled gamely trying to put into practise what they had learnt about the game to launch a comeback into the game. It was not to be though as the Blues scored a third converted try and there was no way back for the Lions. The Lions will be looking for their opening victory of the tournament when they play Wyvern Harlequins at 7.20pm. Head Coach John Fieldhouse said, �From BARLA lads it�s a great learning curve and we will get better from this opening group game. It�s a great experience giving BARLA great coverage and we are learning all the time.� BARLA Great Britain Lions: 1. James Craven (Thornhill Trojans), 2. James Dallimore (Wigan St Cuthberts), 3. Ryan Fieldhouse (Leigh East), 4. Mark Jones (Leigh Miners Rangers), 5. Scott Lofthouse (Kells), 6. Aaron Lowe (Barrow Island), 7. Carl Puckering (East Hull), 8. Michael Johnson (Myton Warriors), 9. Shaun Foster (Wigan St Cuthberts), 10. Trevor Penrose (Capt) (Skirlaugh), 11. Shaun Quinn (Thatto Heath Crusaders), 12. Lee Gudor (Siddal). Tries: Lowe Goals: Puckering 1 3/12/09 TWO OUT OF TWO AIN'T BAD FOR THE BULLDOGS BARLA BULLDOGS .. 28 MOSCOW LADS .. 12 The Bulldogs made it two out of two in a gruelling physical encounter against their Russian opponents in front of a healthy vociferous crowd with 18,000 spectators watching the first day�s games proceedings in temperatures of 80 degrees. The heat and atmosphere certainly suited the Bulldogs and they scored their first try in the opening minute when Dale Semple (Broughton Red Rose) crossed and Steve Perry (Roose Pioners) added the extras for a 7-0 lead. Two minutes later Richard Pearson (Siddal) scored his first try of the tournament and Perry again added the extras to double their lead leaving Moscow shell shocked. But Moscow didn�t come to lie down and scored on six minutes but the Bulldogs quickly responded when captain of the side Peter Livett (Woolston Rovers) scored a try again converted by Perry and the side led 21-5 at the break. Moscow struck back with a converted try at the beginning of the second half and it was game on as Moscow tried to show their physicality but the Bulldogs showed the right spirit. Any chance of a comeback was quashed by the Bulldogs late in the game when Steve Morton (Queens) went over for his sides fourth try and Perry made it four from four. The Bulldogs are now in a great position going into the second with every possibility of playing in the knock out stages of the main event. First though they need to focus their attention to the clash with the Bone Steelers at the 12.20pm who include ex Great Britain and Castleford Tigers Graham Steadman who is part of the Scotland RFU coaching set up, as well as Gregor Townsend former Scotland captain and also on the coaching staff of Scotland as well as other former Scotland internationals. To date the Bulldogs have scored 48 points and conceded only 12 and Head Coach Mick Fishwick will be well pleased with the first day performances. BARLA Bulldogs: 1. Richard Pearson (Siddal), 2. Peter Livett (Woolston Rovers), 3. Phil Jackson (Millom), 4. Dale Semple (Broughton Red Rose), 5. Paul Haythorn (Barrow Island), 6. Craig Irvine (Whitworth Spartans), 7. Geoff Lofthouse (New Earswick), 8 Paul Dean (Hindpool Tigers), 9. Martin Scrimshaw (Siddal), 10. Steve Morton (Queens), 11. Johnny Numa (Shaw Cross Sharks), 12. Steve Perry (Roose Pioneers), 13. Kenny Embleton (Heworth), 14. John Welch (Woolston Rovers), 15. Gary Lewis (Siddal), 16. Sean High (Kells) Tries: Semple, Pearson, Livett, Morton Goals: Perry 4 3/12/09 BARLA BULLDOGS ..21 SWANSEA UNIVERSITY OLD BOYS ..0 The BARLA Bulldogs got off to a wonderful start in International Vets Trophy which is part of the Emirates Airline Dubai Sevens today with a 21-0 victory over Swansea University Old Boys The Bulldogs scored the opening try in this ten a side tournament after two minutes when Paul Haythorn (Barrow Island) crossed the try line and Steve Perry (Roose Pioneers) kicked the first of his three goals to make it 7-0. The Bulldogs doubled their lead two minutes later Steve Morton (Queens) crossed the whitewash and the side kept the lead to the break. The Bulldogs third and final try in their opening game saw Morton scoring his second with a length of the field run for a magnificent try after 11 minutes with Perry�s final conversion of the game. The side then kept control of the game and vigorous defence kept out the gallant opponents from Wales. The Bulldogs second and final game of the day will see them play Moscow Lads at 11.40am BARLA Bulldogs: 1. Richard Pearson (Siddal), 2. Peter Livett (Woolston Rovers), 3. Phil Jackson (Millom), 4. Dale Semple (Broughton Red Rose), 5. Paul Haythorn (Barrow Island), 6. Craig Irvine (Whitworth Spartans), 7. Geoff Lofthouse (New Earswick), 8 Paul Dean (Hindpool Tigers), 9. Martin Scrimshaw (Siddal), 10. Steve Morton (Queens), 11. Johnny Numa (Shaw Cross Sharks), 12. Steve Perry (Roose Pioneers), 13. Kenny Embleton (Heworth), 14. John Welch (Woolston Rovers), 15. Gary Lewis (Siddal), 16. Sean High (Kells) 1/12/2009 Lee Gudor, �I am looking forward to the tour as it gets closer and it should be a good experience and a steep learning curve both for me and the rest of the two squads competing in the event. I�ve never played rugby union before but we will all give it a good go, we have had a training session over here but I know that once we get to Dubai we will knuckle down and get used to the different techniques of rugby union involved in sevens rugby. �Sevens though in either code is really a running game and it�s up to Carl Puckering and I when we get the ball to get it out to our backs to run the ball and look for the spaces and gaps. All the lads in the Lions squad are fit and fast and I think they will relish playing in the expected warm conditions in Dubai. We are going to do the best we can for our country and I think we will shock a few people. I would like to thank my club in my efforts to get on the trip�
Updated by siddal.arlfc.co.uk

GAME ON! SIDDAL A v SHARLSTON ROVERS (h) 28/11/09 KO 2pm
November 28, 2009
Siddal A face their toughest test yet when Pennine Premier Champions visit. CHEVINEDGE will host the top game for the second week running as teams revert to league action. Last week Siddal A bowed out of the Pennine President's Cup to Drighlington and they will be out to make amends against unbeaten title favourites Sharlston Rovers. If Siddal are to have any chance of lifting the trophy themselves then this is a must win game. With Rovers stuttering to a draw in the cup last week against Division One side Westgate Wolves, this could be the perfect time to face them
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL v WIGAN ST.JUDES - GAME OFF
November 28, 2009
Game postponed due to waterlogged pitch. LEE Greenwood has appealed to the Pennine League to change a rule which he says dictates which players he can select for Siddal's first team in the National Conference League's top flight. The frustrated coach is having to juggle his club's vast playing resources to ensure the Chevinedge club doesn't fall foul of a limit of four first teamers turning out for the seconds in the Pennine League's Premier Division. And Greenwood says that Stuart Proctor and Jack Holmes, who deserve to be in the firsts at Wigan St Judes tomorrow, are having to play in the seconds instead at home to Sharlston Rovers. According to Pennine League rules, players are classed as first teamers after six appearances for the top side in the current season. Players can be reclassified as second teamers but Greenwood says that is too long a process. Greenwood reckons he could have as many as 25 players ineligible for the seconds by Christmas, meaning some quality players may have to turn out for Siddal's thirds in Division Four if they want a game. The ex-Oldham back said Siddal's efforts to get the rule changed had "fallen on deaf ears" so far and the club would be making a further effort at a Pennine League meeting at Elland WMC on Monday, December 14. "It's a joke of a rule," said Greenwood, who will consider quitting as coach unless the issue is addressed. "I should be able to pick my best 17 players for the first team and the rest should be able to play in the seconds," he said. "But at the moment I can't do that because of this dinosaur of a rule." A further frustration for Greenwood this weekend is that he will be without star half-back Lee Gudor, who is barred from playing tomorrow before he heads off on Sunday to play for a BARLA side taking on rugby union teams in a Dubai sevens competition. Martin Scrimshaw, Gary Lewis and Richard Pearson are taking part in a veterans' tournament at the same venue but Jamie Wrigley has been unable to go due to work commitments and he will be in a first team squad which will also include Simeon Hoyle, skipper Nick Smith and James Simeunovich, who would have missed the match at Hull Dockers had that not fallen victim to the weather. Luke Sandland returns to the firsts to partner Shaun Garrod at half-back, having done well for the seconds under Greenwood's watchful eye in the narrow cup defeat by Drighlington. The defeat of leaders Leigh East at home to bottom club Oulton Raiders six days ago eased some of Siddal's disappointment at not being able to play. Siddal remain three points behind the red rose side in second place but now with a game in hand. Easts head to fourth-placed Wath Brow Hornets tomorrow so there is a chance Siddal could narrow the gap. Siddal crushed Widnes St Maries 68-0 a fortnight since and Saints bounced back by beating Wigan St Judes 20-12 last week. That form line might suggest Siddal are strong favourites for tomorrow's game against St Judes but Greenwood believes any complacency could be costly for his men. "We have already beaten them easily at home and they are an unpredictable side but on their day they can be tough to beat and have some very good attacking players," he said. The bus will leave at 11:30am and all supporters are welcome.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

POSTPONED! - SIDDAL v HULL DOCKERS (a) 21/11/09
November 21, 2009
Siddal's game at Hull Dockers has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL A v DRIGHLINGTON (h) 2pm 21/11/09
November 21, 2009
Siddal A take on Drighlington in the Pennine Presidents Cup. Kick off at 2pm.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NATIONAL CUP DRAW @ SIDDAL
November 19, 2009
The first and second round ties of the BARLA ACE Insurance (Europe) were drawn this evening (Thursday 19th November) at the Chevinedge base of current holders Siddal. Out of the 76 hopefuls including SRL outfit Leeds Trinity and RLC team Bristol Sonics, 24 names went into the first round draw to bring competing teams down to 64 for the second round stage. Round One - scheduled for Sat 5th December 2009 Ovenden v Ossett Trinity Batley Boys v Eastmoor Dragons Shaw Cross Sharks v Irlam Hornets Blackbrook v East Leeds Liversedge v Higginshaw Waterhead v Egremont Rangers Bristol Sonics v Orrell St James Heysham Atoms v Bamber Bridge Salterbeck Storm v East Leeds A Leeds Trinity v Keighley Town Westgate Wolves v Crosfields Lowca v Distington Round One - scheduled for Sat 16th January 2010 West Bowling v Askam Leigh Miners Rangers v Hull Dockers Stanningley v Castleford Lock Lane Lowca or Distington v Waterhead or Egremont Rangers Wath Brow Hornets v Drighlington Bank Quay Bulls v Heysham Atoms or Bamber Bridge Blackbrook or East Leeds v Heworth Normanton Knights v Thornhill Trojans Broughton Red Rose v Maryport Queens v Kells Milford Marlins v Leigh East Keighley Albion v Wigan St Judes Bristol Sonics or Orrell St James v West Hull Bradford Dudley Hill v Stanley Rangers Hensingham v Pilkington Recs Birstall Victoria v Leeds Trinity or Keighley Town Batley Boys or Eastmoor Dragons v Shaw Cross Sharks or Irlam Hornets Ince Rose Bridge v Rochdale Mayfield East Hull v Westgate Wolves or Crosfields Liversedge or Higginshaw v Hunslet Warriors Salterbeck Storm or East Leeds A v Castleford Panthers Halton Simms Cross v Myton Warriors Ovenden or Ossett Trinity v Dewsbury Moor Widnes St Maries v Elland Halifax Irish v Siddal Wigan St Patricks v Millom Saddleworth Rangers v Wigan St Cuthberts Eccles & Salford Juniors v Hunslet Old Boys Thatto Heath Crusaders v Skirlaugh Oulton Raiders v Sharlston Rovers Upton v York Acorn Oldham St Annes v Ryland Sharks The National Cup Final will be played on the first day of the �Fylde Fiesta� on Saturday 29th May 2010 as part of the double headed finals day when the Champions Cup is also played. Day two of the Fylde Fiesta will consist of the three BARLA National Youth Cup finals. Ace Insurance BARLA National Cup Schedule: Saturday 5th December 2009: Round one Saturday 16th January 2010: Round two Saturday 30th January 2010: Round three Saturday 20th February 2010: Round four Saturday 20th March 2010: Round five Saturday 10th April 2010: Semi finals Saturday 29th May 2010: Final at Fylde
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 68 WIDNES ST.MARIES 0
November 15, 2009
Siddal moved second in the table and stayed in touch with leaders Leigh East with this thrashing of St.Maries. See reports....SIDDAL are poised to hand a debut to former Halifax back rower Andy Bowman when they host Widnes St Maries in the Premier Division tomorrow (2pm). Bowman, who was not offered a new deal at the Shay for 2010, rejoined his junior club on Monday and seems certain to figure as Lee Greenwood's double-winners look to bounce back from last weekend's loss at leaders Leigh East. "Andy should go well for us, and will give us some options at back row and centre," said Siddal captain Nick Smith, who alluded to rumours linking the former BARLA under 18 international with a move to Championship newcomers Keighley. "I am not sure how long we will have him for but we will make the most of him while he is here." Bowman is unlikely to be the only change to Greenwood's line up, with young forwards George Ambler and Mark Boothroyd also in contention after significant injury lay offs. Adie Leek is also doubtful after being concussed last weekend, while Smith expects to shrug off a shoulder injury in time to play. Last week's loss saw Siddal drop to fourth in a tightly-packed leading group, but Smith pointed out the Chevinedge side are already in a better position than they were 12 months ago. "We've got more points than we had at the half way point a year ago and we have three of the top five teams to play at home over the second half of the season," said Smith. "If we'd won last week we would have gone top, which would have been nice, but it was always going to be one of the more difficult games of the season. "We've got to be happy with where we are at the moment."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Under 14s Fund raising walk
November 14, 2009
Siddal Bulldogs Under 14s are having a fund raising walk on Saturday from Ogden Water back to the Siddal clubhouse. Meet at the club at 10.30am. Pictures of the lads and a report will follow.....
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LEIGH EAST 28 SIDDAL 14
November 7, 2009
Cut and paste this link to see the tries: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXieteDm9pE PREVIEW - THE season hasn't reached its half-way point yet but the stakes are still fairly high when Siddal continue their sequence of top of the table games with a trip to Leigh East tomorrow (2.30). The pair registered impressive wins last week, the Chevinedge men flooring leaders Skirlaugh 34-10 to go second, one point behind Easts who were 46-10 winners at East Hull. Only two points separate five clubs at the top in the jostle for positions prior to the end-of-season play-offs and Siddal skipper Nick Smith knows the table could have a different complexion come tomorrow night. "It's very tight. If we win on Saturday we will go top but if we lose we could end up fourth or fifth," he said. Tomorrow's combatants will have half an eye on Humberside, where Skiralugh look to end a poor spell when they entertain fourth-placed Wath Brow and fifthplaced Leigh Miners Rangers tackle Hull Dockers. Ledgard Avenue has not been a happy hunting ground for Siddal in the past but they have probably never had a stronger squad, as the Pennine League table suggests with Siddal A riding high in the Premier. Leigh Easts earned rave reports for last week's success but Smith believes the score and the fact that forwards appeared to do much of the damage, with Mark Ballard and Gary Middlehurst each scoring a hat-trick, could paint a slightly false picture. "It sounds as if East Hull blew out in the last 10 or 15 minutes but it was still a good win. "When we have played Leigh East in the past they have tended to throw the ball around a bit." Smith was delighted with last week's display, in which fullback Brad Attwood was again a star performer. "That was probably our best performance this season - everybody contributed - but we probably need to up it again this weekend." Siddal are likely to be without forwards George Ambler (hamstring) and Mark Boothroyd (back) again. The bus will leave the club at 12pm.
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PRO KIDS RUGBY TOTS
November 6, 2009
Rugby training for 3 - 7 year olds has started at The Ridings Sports Centre every friday 5:30pm - 6:30pm. No booking needed just turn up on the night. This is general skills training and children will not play any contact games or for a team - it is purely to develop confidence and skill levels before they join a local rugby club. Contact Kevin on 07542215995, Pro Kids head office on 0161 236 29 28 or email tots@prokids.co.uk for more information.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Race Day
November 1, 2009
There is a race day in the clubhouse on Sunday 1/11/09 to raise funds for the lads who have been selected to play in Dubai in November .. Scrimmy, Wriggers (if Julie lets him go) Gary and Sausage. First race is set for the off at 2.0pm and for ten pounds there are still a few horses up for grabs. If you would like to buy one will you please see or contact Paul McCormack on 07950383640. If you can please call in and have a flutter to help the lads fund their trip.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

PENNINE LEAGUE PREVIEW
October 31, 2009
ALL three of Calderdale's Premier Division sides have home games tomorrow, with the big one being at Goldfields, Greetland where Elland take on Keighley Albion. Elland gave a good account of themselves against title favourites Sharlston Rovers last week, leading the champions at the break, and although matches against the Keighley side are always a tough affair, Elland may just have the edge. Siddal A faceADVERTISEMENT second bottom New Earswick All Blacks at Chevinedge whilst Halifax Irish take on third bottom Crigglestone All Blacks on Savile Park. King Cross Park, lying second in Division One, have a crunch game in Wakefield where they meet fellow pace-setters and newly-promoted Westgate Wolves. It's derby time again in Division Two with Brighouse Rangers making a return trip to Spring Rock to take on Greetland All Rounders. Their opening day encounter saw Rangers came out easily on top but things could be different tomorrow as Greetland seem to be finding form and will have newly appointed coach, Huddersfield Giants Gary Coulter, at the helm for his first game. In Division Three, Ovenden A could get a win under their belts at Four Fields where the hit or miss Sharlston Rovers A visit. Boothtown Terriers are also at home, to promotion chasing Littleborough. In the fourth division, Elland A travel to Underbank Rangers whilst Siddal B are in Keighley playing Albion A. King Cross Park A will be following Siddal B in the same direction in their Division Five encounter at Silsden Park Rangers. Stainland Stags will be pleased they are playing at Queensbury A's exposed ground tomorrow and not later in the season. Halifax Irish are at Woodhouse Warriors, whilst Whitehall Warriors make the trip to the far side of Huddersfield to play Meltham All Blacks. In Division Six, Brighouse Rangers A should be favourites at home to Emley Moor A. Premier Division: Siddal A v New Earswick AB, Kippax v St Joseph's, Elland v Keighley Albion, Hx Irish v Crigglestone,. Division One: Emley v Wyke, Birkenshaw v Q'bury, Slaithwaite v Clayton, Westgate v KC Park, K Town v Bowling A. Division Two: Bank Top v Morley, Stanningley A v Wortley, Moldgreen v Dodworth, Dearne Valley v Newsome, Greetland v Brighouse. Division Three: Liversedge v West Leeds, Odsal v Undercliffe, Boothtown v Littleborough, Dudley A v Lindley, Ovenden A v Sharlston A. Division Four: Hillsborough v Kippax A, Underbank v Elland A, Drighlington A v Selby, Hoyland v West Craven, Albion A v Siddal B. Division Five: Guiseley v Town A, Silsden v King Cross Park A, Woodhouse v Halifax Irish A , New Earswick A v Wibsey A, Q'bury A v Stainland, Meltham v Whitehall. Division Six: St Joes A v Cowling, Newsome A v Farnley, Wyke A v Slaithwaite A, Brighouse A v Emley A. Division Seven: Whitworth v Dearne Valley A, Bradford and Bingley Pumas v Sedergh A, Selby A v Wetherby, South Bradford v Underbank A. Cup draws - Pennine Presidents Cup, round two: St Joseph's v Elland, Slaithwaite Saracens v Illingworth, Halifax Irish v Kippax Welfare, King Cross Park v Crigglestone All Blacks, Siddal A v Drighlington Andrew Bennett Memorial Trophy, round one: Odsal Sedbergh v Boothtown Terriers, Drighlington A v Greetland All Rounders, Brighouse Rangers v Siddal B, Elland A v Keighley Albion A, Ovenden A v Morley Borough. Pennine Supplementary Cup - Round One: Underbank Rangers A v King Cross Park A, Whitehall Warriors v Bradford & Bingley Pumas, Illingworth A v New Earswick All Blacks A, Keighley Town A v Stainland Stags, Halifax Irish A v South Bradford, Brighouse Rangers A bye Ties to be played November 21 & 28.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 34 SKIRLAUGH 10
October 31, 2009
SIDDAL play out the first chapter of a top of the table double header when they host leaders Skirlaugh in the Premier Division at Chevinedge tomorrow. Lee Greenwood's double-winners currently trail their title rivals by two points, with Leigh East a point clear in second. But with the Humbersiders due in town tomorrow, and Siddal heading to Easts next weekend in a fixture that marks the half way point of the season, Greenwood is keen to reclaim top spot. "If we can win these two, we would be top at the midway point which is all you can ask," said Greenwood, whose side will be looking to bounce back from last week's loss at Wath Brow. "There's a real gap opening in the table between the top five, us, Miners, Easts, Skirlaugh and Wath Brow, and the rest of the teams and we need to make sure we start taking points from the sides around us. "We've already lost at Miners and Wath Brow, and we can't afford many more of those results. "Skirlaugh have been going well, winning their first nine games. "They're a good side and there is no doubt this is a big game for both clubs." Siddal will still be without injured forwards Mark Boothroyd (wrist) and George Ambler (hamstring), but will welcome back half back Shaun Garrod and young wingers Tom Gaffney and Gareth Blackburn. SKIRLAUGH are boosted by the return of four experienced players for the trip to face reigning Premier Division champions Siddal. Matty Danville, Trevor Penrose, Danny Moss and Tom Roberts are back in the fold but Mark Spence's back injury has not healed up in time. League leaders Skirlaugh will be looking to return to the form that saw them win their opening nine games, as Colin Brown's side have lost and drawn their last two games. Brown said: "We're getting a few back and hopefully that will be enough to get the win. We've missed our experienced players who have been out as they have been leading the way in training and games this season. "This will be the first game this season we have gone in as underdogs, they are a top side at home and they have a very vocal crowd behind them."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Kids Halloween Party !!
October 30, 2009
The club is holding it's annual Halloween Party for kids under 12 on Friday 30th October from 6.0pm. The cover charge is just �2.50 per child under 12 years of age and included in this is a raffle ticket and kids halloween themed buffet. There will be games with prizes, a halloween costume competition and kids disco. All children must be accompanied by an adult ...... if you dare !!!!
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

GUDOR STARS FOR YORKSHIRE
October 25, 2009
Siddal's international stand off Lee Gudor potted a decisive late drop goal as Yorkshire snatched a late victory in the BARLA Counties Tri Series against Cumbria at Whitehaven. With Cumbria coming back from 16-4 down to 16 all a draw would have suited the visitors, but Gudor had others ideas as he coolly dropped a one pointer two minutes from time. That set up a championship decider in the 'War of the Roses' clash at Heworth next month when Lancashire only need a draw to become champions. Yorkshire Head Coach Alf Hill said: "It's always hard to win up here. "But it doesn't matter whether you win by one point or 10, but one point was sufficient. "It was a great comeback by Cumbria but some superb tackling by our defence and under these conditions it's a credit to all the lads on the field. "To be honest I thought we had bombed the win because 12-4 up I told them to work their way up to the sticks and drop a goal before the break. When they came back into it I was sure that they would come up with a drop goal to win it. "They had a chance for a drop four minutes from time, you've got to take them and if you don't you suffer. "I also knew we were capable of it and Lee coolly slotted it over."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 6 WATH BROW 10
October 24, 2009
Siddal lost their second game of the season in atrocious conditions at Wath Brow. See reports. SIDDAL are facing a crucial phase in their quest to retain the title with games against fellow top four sides Wath Brow Hornets, Skirlaugh and Leigh East in the next three weeks. Fourth-placed Hornets are first up and second-placed Siddal will set off on the long haul to Cumbria at 9.0am expecting one of their toughest tests of the season. "We have set ourselves the target of winning all our next three games and if we can do that we will go top," said coach Lee Greenwood. Wath Brow, who were Division One champions last season and beat London Skolars in the Challenge Cup, are a particularly formidable force on their own ground. Greenwood said: "They are undefeated at home this season but we aim to be the first to beat them up there." Last week Siddal and Wath Brow both registered narrow away wins and were further cheered by news of a first defeat of the season for leaders Skirlaugh at Ince Rose Bridge. Greenwood has missed the last two matches due to holidays but reports tell him that Siddal are still yet to hit top form and continue to make life difficult for themselves with slow starts. Siddal's legendary strength in depth will be put to the test tomorrow with Shaun Garrod, Gareth and Shaun Blackburn, Mark Boothroyd, Tom Gaffney and George Ambler all either injured or unavailable. Stuart Proctor, star man for the seconds last week, will step up to partner Lee Gudor at half back while Simeon Hoyle will switch to loose forward to accommodate Craig Sanderson's return at hooker. Michael Gilligan is likely to come in on the wing. The bus will be leaving at 9am from the club but supporters are warned that fancy dress is compulsory for the return trip.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

"Take Me Home"
October 10, 2009
Joe Nolan has sent his final messages from the land of 'Waltzing Matilda': Mon 5th Oct - Sydney Posted by joe nolan The Koalas Final instalment from our RL pioneers. Free day to do further sightseeing, fishing with the sharks or checking out the local wildlife before the red carpet award ceremony at the Forbes Hotel. (OK, it was a rough n ready restaurant above a pub, but it did have a red carpet). Official thanks from both GB and Aus Masters reps, an impromptu lecture and demonstration from Boyce on the value of referees and it was onto the awards (tour nicknames to avoid obvious identification): H2O Award : Porno due to the mysterious puddle appearing inside his hotel room. Useless Knowledge Award : Santa Claus for his knowledge on every plane that has passed over us for the whole tour. Bermuda Triangle Award : Bronzed Adonis for his dive for the line from 25 metres only to find the try line had disappeared. Choking the Chicken Award : Uncle Fester as he couldn't leave it alone. Best Tourist Award : Statler & Waldorf as they could never be separated and encompassed the spirit of the tour Back to the Irish Bar for a final sing song before our final sleep. Tour guitar signed and donated to Aus Masters for future trips. That's it folks or is it just the beginning? It's been a blast. Enjoy your rugby league. We do !! Sun 4th Oct - Sydney Posted by joe nolan A Grand Day Out Secret pub was the first meeting point of the day for those bold enough to have a drink before lunch. Off up to the ground via the rivercat with plenty of Parra and Storm fans onboard. Soaked up the atmosphere outside the ground and had a match build up including the match ball being delivered by a Black Hawk helicopter which hovered and spun above the centre spot. We're expecting nothing less than the Red Arrows at our Super League final next week. The match was dominated in the first half by a well organised Storm side, Parra making a game of it in the latter stages but lost out 16-23. Back into the city for refreshments with a good contingent making it into the Irish Bar in the hotel for a good natter. Sat 3rd Oct - Sydney Posted by joe nolan St Marys v GB Masters Early afternoon travel back out to St Marys ground. The facilities would have many an English professional club envious. St Mary's recently celebrated their 100 year anniversary and runs 45 teams from u7's to Masters. Following the Maori tournament, we kicked off under floodlights and heavy rain on a lush pitch against arguably the best masters team in the city, we knew this was technically going to be our toughest game. St Mary's dominated the opening 15 mins with GB's defence holding out. Some strong runs by their backs required some quick cover tackling. GB broke the deadlock when Nolan sidestepped through the defence to outpace the cover and slide under the posts. GB's confidence now grew as half time approached. Plenty of dropped ball in the wet conditions by both teams but GB began to dictate play with Walton and Johnson taking the pack forward, Wood and Cuniff making some weaving runs. A midfield move gave Johnson options with Oates beating Hudson to the pass (some say he stole it) to touch down. Minutes later Field slipped through the line and held off his chasers to seal the draw (3-0). BBQ, beers, banter followed with the regular Kangaroo Court and team songs in the clubhouse. Thanks St Mary's for a great night. Oh, and Sut found his safe key in his pocket. Fri 2nd Oct - Sydney Posted by joe nolan A Bunch of Stiffs Training session next to the famous Botanical Gardens with the city skyscrapers as our backdrop. Lots of stiffness on the auld legs now as we prepare for our final game at St Mary's on Saturday. Didn't stop Donksey finishing off a good break with a sidestep of Chappell which he was still contesting into the afternoon. A visit for some to Chappell's massage parlour in the top floor gym and once again a free afternoon. Free afternoon and evening, so god knows what activities people got up to.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL v EAST HULL (h) 10/10/09 2pm KO
October 10, 2009
Siddal take on East Hull in a re-run of last seasons NCL Grand Final.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 24 WEST HULL 20
October 3, 2009
Siddal overcame a spirited West Hull side. See reports. HOOKER Simeon Hoyle will return to the Siddal line up for tomorrow's Premier Division trip to West Hull. The ex-Oldham professional, whose former colleagues - including Chevinedge coach Lee Greenwood - will contest the Championship One Grand Final on Sunday afternoon, has been missing in recent weeks because of work commitments. Hoyle's availability will ratchet up the pressure for first team places at Siddal ahead of the trip to the east coast. "I think we have just about everyone fit, so we are looking pretty strong," said captain Nick Smith. "I am sure Simeon will come into the side somewhere, because he is a quality player. "But I couldn't say whether that will be on the bench or in the starting side." Siddal's form has been inconsistent in recent weeks, at least by the standards set by the double winners over the last year, although last week's trouncing of Oulton Raiders was a promising omen. "We played a lot better, and it certainly helped having Shaun Garrod and Lee Gudor back together at half back," said Smith. "To have two lads there who know each other so well, and who know exactly what they need to do, was a big plus for us. "The key for us now is to start playing wth a bit more consistency, rather than being good one week and then not so good the next. "Wests are struggling at the moment down near the bottom of the table, but it is never an easy game over there. "We just need to make sure we come up with a decent performance on the day." The bus leaves at 11:30am and all supporters are welcome to travel.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

More From Kangaroo Joe
October 2, 2009
Keep up to date with Joe's daily diary on: http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/gbmasters Thurs 1st Oct. Transfer to Sydney Club News \| Fri 2nd Oct 09 Posted by joe nolan City Slickers An informal day following our transfer to the very slick Grace Hotel in the centre of Sydney. An afternoon meet in the Irish Bar to decide what we were doing and they were off. Some sightseeing, some eating, some guitar playing and some reconnaissance for places to go when the sun goes down. Wed 30th Sept. Penrith Club News \| Fri 2nd Oct 09 Posted by joe nolan Lower Mountains v GB Masters The Blue Mountains venue was perfectly set for the evening kickoff under floodlights. A tough opening few minutes as the referee allowed the more physical lads to get stuck into each other but the deadlock was broken when Nolan broke down the right wing before being closed down on 25. The ball was quickly shipped left for Walton to slip through the gap to touch down. Fisher pulled up with a hamstring injury, but Field kept the forwards moving. GB took command when Exley was put through the gap and he finished from halfway. The Eagles then replied with a good passing move to score by the posts despite a desperate tackle on the line. Walton continued to cause problems for the home side, executing a good move with dummy runners to again go under the posts. The GB squad all played their part as the hard ground took its toll. Morgan, Healey and Longbottom working well in the forwards. The ball was then swung wide through the backs, Cuniff being caught on 25 (or did he dive for the line ?), but a similar move a few minutes later allowed Cuniff to carve his way back inside and just outpace an aging red short player. His efforts contributed to his man of the match performance. The final period was dominated by GB with Walton unselfishly handing onto Johnson to touch down and Chappell finishing off a slick passing move on the left. With the final hooter sounding, a good 5-1 "draw" in favour of the touring squad who all had to play their part tonight in a tough encounter. Again thanks to the Lower Mountains Eagles for the generosity shown, Mountains winning the boat race (if pouring it over yourself counts) and GB winning the singing "rootacha rootacha rootachacha" !! Tues 29th Sept Penrith Club News \| Tue 29th Sep 09 Posted by joe nolan Watch out for the Crocs ! Steady day again as we had a training session/touch & pass scheduled for the early evening. A round of golf it was then. Jeez, I hope there werent any cameras. Bare @rse shots if you didnt get your shot off the tee box (nice tattoo Deano) and reluctance to retrieve balls from the swamps as we didnt know what local wildlife was lurking in there. Then off to the game of t&p with our hosts the Riverstone Razorbacks, some of their lads had played in the International on Saturday so it was good to renew acquaintances. A couple of tinnies and hot food was welcomed to replenish our efforts on a warm evening. Mon 28th Sept Penrith Club News \| Tue 29th Sep 09 Posted by joe nolan Whose that talking to Shaun Hudson ? Free day for the squad. Weather pretty warm so the options were open. Some just bummed around the Panthers complex but the more adventurous caught the train up to Parramatta to visit the world famous Peter Wynn shop (legend with Parra). The town was buzzing with Para in the final this coming weekend, so a few of our pommie faces will be on local TV. Wandered up to the stadium to spend a few hours in the Leagues Club. Sat on the veranda overlooking the ground in the sunshine, watching RL on the TV with a nice cold Tooheys. It doesnt get much better than that or so we thought. There was a scheduled open training session at the ground, so we mixed in with the thousands of fans, to discover we had ended up sitting in the players/members area. We were joined by the one and only Brett Kenny who sat down with us and chatted for over 20 mins sharing his experiences of his playing days. The Normy lads asked him if he would like his photo taking with them, to which he duly obliged. Priceless !!! Sun 27th Sept Penrith Club News \| Mon 28th Sep 09 Posted by joe nolan Whats an Umu ? Recovery day, with the majority of the party getting up to for a trip to the Blue Mountains courtesy of Malcolm and Graham from Australia Masters. Superb scenery and well worth the trip. The Referees and Officials then hosted a traditional Samoan spit roast and BBQ at Malcolms house, with our regular Kangaroo Court being held and a sing song around the evening fire. Great day, great hosts and an event we will remember for the rest of our lives. Returned to the Panthers Hotel for an hour or so in the casino. Gambling, its a mugs game. Australia Masters v GB Masters Club News \| Sat 26th Sep 09 Posted by joe nolan Australia 0-1 GB Blustery conditions for the first Test Match on Australian soil hosted by the Dream Masters Dragons at Smithfield. The tourists were welcomed to the tournament with performances of the Haka. Formalities and National Anthems soon over the game kicked off with GB playing into the strong wind. The organisation of the Australia gold shorts were closing down the gaps very quickly. Royston however waltzed through a gap, drawing the fullback but his pass sailed over Nolans head with the posts in sight. Cuniff was then denied what looked like a try by the ref, but with about 15mins gone, good ball handling put Fisher through the gap near the line for him to showboat his way under the posts, kissing his shirt (again) for a 0-1 lead. The Aussies began to get on top with some strong breaks through the middle but GBs cover defence was quick to snuff them out. The second half saw GB maintain good field position, Walton, Johnstone and Exley talking them forward. The goldies of Sutcliffe, Timson, and Wroe made their presence felt and Connell had a staggering run. Chappell put Nolan away, drawing the winger, but his pass failed to hit Skilling with the line begging. A midfield tug of war in the final stages of the match, Johnstone getting free but his try ruled out as the hooter sounded. As is tradition with all Masters matches, the game ended up in a draw however the game was broadcast over local radio with them confirming a 0-1 win to the tourists ;-) John Exley picking up the MOM award. A great evening was had by all, Donkersley picking up the International Dance Award.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Master Nolan's Aussie Diary
September 28, 2009
Australia masters v GB masters Club News \| Sat 26th Sep 09 Posted by joe nolan Australia 0-1 GB Match report to follow Fri 25th September � Transfer to Penrith Club News \| Sat 26th Sep 09 Posted by joe nolan Old Codgers Day Transfer to Penrith was delayed due to some old codgers losing their safe keys and paying 250 dollars for it unlocking. Well done Sut and Donks. Penrith stadium tour was next on the agenda�delayed again due to some old codgers being late for the meet. Well done Sut & Donks. Photo shoot followed by training session on the Panthers training pitch in the shadows of the stadium ready for Saturday. Then it was off to join a record breaking crowd at the ANZ stadium for the Eels v Bulldogs elimination semi. Belter of a game, the first set of 6 saw 4 big hits and a player carried off ! The Eels coming strong in the second half to clinch it 12-22 with the atmosphere electric. Donks won the sweep�just another 220 dollars to make back. Thurs 24th September - Manly Club News \| Sat 26th Sep 09 Posted by joe nolan A Friendly Day Rest day for the tourists courtesy of Narabeen Sharks players and officials. Friendly arranged for us to be transported up the coast to Palm Beach with a short ferry crossing to a reserve where we just chilled and continued to rib each other. A bit of cricket and a gentle walk (not) loosened the legs before our picnic and a few tinnies. Our antics being closely observed by the resident monitor lizards, wallaby and kookaburra. Returned to Manly for a leisurely evening and packing ready for transferring to Penrith. GB Masters v NSW Blues Police Club News \| Thu 24th Sep 09 Posted by joe nolan He�s a big lad as well ! GB got straight onto the front foot with the Police early nerves being settled with a try from Steve Walton. Juz Fisher �unselfishly� dummied his centre Chris Cuniff to put the tourists 2 tries to the good. The Police then arrested the situation with some good defence, but a spilt ball allowed Oatsey to pick up on his own 25 and sprint down the middle of the pitch for the third. Just before half time, the Police worked the ball up the middle with a good cover tackle from Walton just failing to stop the momentum to let the coppers respond before the break. A pretty even 2nd half and some good breaks up the right, but GB were kept at bay. The last play of the game saw the winger outpace classy centre Chappell to score in the corner. In all Masters games, the result was a draw�.but we knew who really won. A good reception and Barbie was then held by our host club the Forestville Ferretts. Tues 22nd Sept - Manly Club News \| Tue 22nd Sep 09 Posted by joe nolan Can we have our ball back surf dude ? Serious training session this morning where the game plan and structure came together. A quick splash in the rooftop pool ended abruptly as Wally headed the rugby ball over the top of the hotel onto the promenade�never to be seen again. The afternoon off saw most of the lads head up to the Brookvale Oval, home of the Manly Sea Eagles � a few bets on the trots and photo shoot before taxis back down to the beach for a game of touch n pass. Royst recovered from his serious hangover for a charge up the wing and PJ spear tackled into the sea. Pre match meal at the Brazilian restaurant near the hotel as it had been recommended by the splinter party the previous night. Pete Longbottom, asked if it was any good � �first time ive had a Brazilian, really good but it doesn�t half itch�. Early night for most ahead of game day against the NSW Police. Confidence is high in the camp, despite being uncertain what sort of reception they may wish to give us�.bring it on ! Monday 21st Sept Club News \| Tue 22nd Sep 09 Posted by joe nolan Let training commence... A light training session was completed in the morning at Manly RU club just behind the hotel...first casualty, John Wroe dislocating his finger after a head high pass from Woody. Dr Sut was on hand to slot it back in - ouch ! Off then into Sydney where we really got to know each other (!) at the NSW Leagues club...top day out with a sing song and poetry renditions on the ferry back to Manly. More serious day tomorrow we think.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 34 OULTON 4
September 26, 2009
Siddal kept touch with leaders Skirlaugh after this win. See reports. SIDDAL will have international half back Lee Gudor in their side for tomorrow's Premier Division clash with Oulton Raiders at Chevinedge. The BARLA tourist, one of the stars of last season's double-winning side, has not featured in competitive action this term after fracturing his elbow in a warm up fixture. But he has been passed fit as Lee Greenwood's side look to bounce back from last week's loss at Leigh Miners - their first reverse of the new campaign. "Lee will start tomorrow, but it's obviously his first game for a while so we'll see whether he can play the full 80 or not," said Greenwood, who should be further boosted by the return of another two key performers, full back Brad Attwood and back rower Luke Simeunovich. "We have struggled a bit with our attack so far, but with Shaun Garrod playing the last couple and now Lee back we should have a stronger combination there." Young winger Gareth Blackburn returns to the side after a summer spent with Huddersfield's reserve side, replacing the injured Steve Hope (hand), while hooker Stuart Proctor (back) is also sidelined. The Raiders have made a bad start to the year and are currently languishing at the foot of the table, but after a strong finish to last season, including a near-miss in the play offs at Chevinedge, Greenwood is anything but complacent. "They are a good side, and every time I have coached against them they have made life difficult for us," said the Oldham professional. "We weren't great at Miners last week, although we should still have closed the game out when we were in front. "Even if we aren't playing well, it's important we find a way to take our chances and win."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

PENNINE LEAGUE PREVIEW
September 25, 2009
ALL three of Calderdale's sides in the Premier Division face away trips tomorrow and the stand out game is Siddal A's trip to Keighley Albion. Looking at last season's results, Siddal took victory in both games but either match could have gone either way with just two and five points separating the teams, so expect another close match in Keighley. Halifax Irish should be fresh after two weeks rest and should be more than capable of taking the two points from their trip to newly promoted Kippax Welfare, who are still searching for their first victory of the season. Elland should get back to winning ways after last week's narrow first defeat to Drighlington with their trip to bottom side New Earswick All Blacks. In Division One, Illingworth entertain Wakefield outfit Westgate Wolves at Mason Green. Both sides will be keen for the victory to get their season going after mixed starts to the campaign. King Cross Park make the short trip to Queensbury who remain unbeaten after last season's relegation from the top flight. Division Two sees Brighouse Rangers hoping to get their season back on track after two narrow defeats with the visit of Bank Top Harriers to Russell Way. Greetland All Rounders travel to Dodworth and with both sides still looking for their first win of the season, one should finally get off the mark. Both Calderdale sides in Division Three are also away and both also still looking for their first wins. Ovenden A travel over the border to Littleborough, while Boothtown Terriers are at Undercliffe Wildboars. In Division Four, Elland A have a tricky task against Keighley Albion A At Goldfields if last season's one point victory against them is anything to go by. A match which could have a big bearing on the title race takes place at Selby Warriors where Siddal B can go top if they come away with the points. Division Five features two derbies with Halifax Irish A taking on Whitehall Warriors on Savile Park with both sides still looking again for that first win of the season, and Stainland Stags entertaining King Cross Park A, are the who are also looking for their first points. Illingworth A have a tricky game in prospect away to Farnley Falcons in Division Six and Brighouse Rangers A have the long trek to Cowling Harlequins to contend with. In Division Seven, Greetland All Rounders make their debut for this term with a match away to South Bradford.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

GB Masters on Tour Down Under
September 21, 2009
Keep abreast of all the news and antics of the Siddal boys down under via the following link: www.pitchero.com/clubs/gbmasters
Updated by siddalarlfc@hotmail.co.uk

SIDDAL 18 LEIGH MINERS 20
September 19, 2009
Siddal lost their first game of the season at Leigh Miners. See reports. SIDDAL will field their strongest line up of the season when they head to Leigh Miners in the Premier Division tomorrow. Stand off Shaun Garrod, who returned from a summer spell with Huddersfield Giants' under 21 side against Wigan St Judes a week ago, is poised to start again at the scrum base. Former Halifax junior Stuart Proctor, who turned out at Chevinedge last season before returning to the professional game with Bradford's second string, is also back on deck. And with hooker Simeon Hoyle and the Simeunovich brothers - James and Luke in line to come back from a combination of injuries and unavailability, coach Lee Greenwood has an embarrassment of riches at his disposal. "It's probably the strongest side we have been able to field all season," said captain Nick Smith. "With Simeon and Craig Sanderson doing well at hooker, Proctor might get a run at seven. "Having Garrod back last week got us organised a bit more but we all know we can still play a lot better than we have been doing." Miners were in the thick of the title hunt last season before fading late in the piece, but Smith is expecting the sternest of examinations in Lancashire. "They're a good side," he said. "It's not a ground where we have done too well in the last few years and it would be nice to set the record straight. "They were right up there for most of last year before dropping off in the last few weeks, although I don't know how much of that was down to injuries. "We'll need to play well if we want to come away with the win." All supporters are welcome to travel on the team bus which leaves at 11:45am from the club and picks up at Ainley Top at 12pm.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

PENNINE LEAGUE PREVIEW
September 17, 2009
Elland will be looking to continue their unbeaten run in the Pennine Premier Division tomorrow in which already looks like a crunch game at home to fellow unbeaten side Drighlington. A win for Elland will certainly show the rest of the division that they mean serious business this season and will be a main contenders for the title. Siddal A narrowly missed out last week away to Drighlington and will face Elland's opposition last week in St Joeseph's at Chevinedge. A win here is also a must for the Siddal A boys if they are aiming to keep up with the pacesetters. In Division One, King Cross Park will be looking to get over last weeks disappointing one point defeat to Clayton, with a home match against Emley Moor. Illingworth, meanwhile, get their chance of beating Clayton with their visit to the Bradford side. Brighouse Rangers of Division Two, were also involved in a narrow defeat last week and will be looking to make amends when they make their longest trip of the season to South Yorkshire's Dearne Valley Bulldogs. Greetland All Rounders continue their away days with the relatively short trip to Queensbury and Bank Top Harriers. In Division Three Boothtown Terriers will be looking to make it third time lucky and get their first victory with a home match to Bradford side Victoria Rangers. Its derby time in Division Four where Siddal B and Elland A lock horns in the second match of the day at Chevinedge. In Division Five, Stainland Stags kick off their campaign with the visit of Silsden Park Rangers while Whitehall Warriors meet familiar faces at Queensbury A. In Division Six, Brighouse Rangers A make their first appearance at home with Slaithwaite Saracens A the opposition while Illingworth A are at home with Cowling Harlequins paying a visit. Both games at Chevinedge kick off at 2:30pm.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Under 14's Training - Tue 15th September @ 6pm
September 15, 2009
All old and new players welcome. Meet outside clubhouse 6pm. Martin Scrimshaw and Matthew Smithies will be holding training over the next couple of weeks. Please ring Martin on 07711511468 if you have any queries.
Updated by Julie Scrimshaw

SIDDAL 58 WIGAN ST.JUDES 10
September 12, 2009
Siddal extended their unbeaten start to the season with this thrashing of Wigan St.Judes. See reports. PREVIEW - Siddal hope to maintain their unbeaten start to the season when they take on Wigan St.Judes. CAPTAIN Nick Smith has warned his Siddal teammates that they must learn a lesson from last weekend's 14-14 draw with Hull Dockers ahead of tomorrow's Premier Division showdown with Wigan St Judes. Siddal maintained their unbeaten run a week ago, but one league point looked certain to be two when Lee Greenwood's side led 14-0 going into the final quarter. "You can make all sorts of excuses, about playing midweek or whatever," said Smith. "But when you are that far in front with quarter of an hour to go, you should go on and win the game. "The bottom line is that we switched off and let them come back into it. "There are a lot of very good teams in the competition and if you let them have the ball and let them play, they will put points on you. "St Judes are a good footballing side, who tend to go well in the drier conditions, and with the weather drying up a bit we need to make sure we play for the full 80 minutes." Siddal will make several enforced changes, with the return of full back Brad Attwood and veteran front rower Jamie Wrigley being cancelled out by injuries to both Luke and James Simeunovich and the absence of star hooker Simeon Hoyle, who has work commitments. "It's not ideal, getting two back and losing three, but it's the way things go sometimes," said Smith. "We've said before that we had pretty good luck with injuries last season so maybe it's our turn to have a bit of adversity."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

PENNINE LEAGUE KICKS OFF!
September 5, 2009
Siddal A kick off their Premier Division campaign with Mick Shaw in charge. They face a trip to Crigglestone All Blacks. Greg Robinson is the new coach of the 'B' team as they start at Drighlington 'A'. Both kick offs are 2:30pm.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 14 HULL DOCKERS 14
September 5, 2009
AFTER taking one scalp that eluded them last season at York Acorn on Wednesday night, Siddal will be aiming to claim another when they host Hull Dockers in the Premier Division of the National Conference tomorrow. The Humbersiders shocked Lee Greenwood's eventual double winners on the opening day of the 2008/9 campaign by winning at Chevinedge. But with the chance to make it four wins from four starts, Siddal captain Nick Smith is banking on a different outcome this time round. "They're a decent side who were in play off contention for most of last year and they will probably fancy their chances," said Smith, who was hoping for a let up in the recent heavy rain after a "horrible" night in North Yorkshire. "But we got one win we missed out on last year at Acorn and it would be nice to get another. "It wasn't a great game on Wednesday � they knocked on, we knocked on � but a lot of teams will go there and get beat so we have to be pleased. "We just need to crack on now and keep rolling. "After this weekend, we will be back into the routine of Saturday games and training during the week so to be unbeaten would be a good start for us." Young playmaker Luke Sandland, who set up three tries in midweek, looks likely to keep his place. But Siddal have a clutch of injury doubts, with Sandland's fellow debutant Michael Gilligan, loose forward Luke Simeunovich and utility player Gareth Hooson all struggling. "Sandland did pretty well and you would have thought he would be involved again," said Smith. "He knows quite a few of the lads from playing in the under 18s and it's good to see young players coming through. "It keeps the pressure on everyone, because you know if you drop out of the side it might not be that easy to get back in again."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 20 YORK ACORN 6
September 2, 2009
Siddal made it 3 wins from 3 games in atrocious conditions at York Acorn. See reports. PREVIEW - Siddal travel to York Acorn on Wednesday evening for a 7pm Kick off in this NCL Premier Division fixture. The team coach leaves the club at 4.15pm and all supporters are welcome. If you are making your own way to York here is the full postal address of Acorn's home ground and the best directions we could find, taken from the NCL website. York Acorn ARLFC Acorn ARL Sports & Social Club Thanet Road Acomb York YO24 2NW Tel: 01904 758234 From West - A64 to York. On outskirts go through lights on A64. Turn off next junction. Follow signs for City Centre until junction with Cross Keys Public House. Turn left onto St Helens Road, the clubhouse is approx 1/2 mile on left opposite baths.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Phillips smashed by Under 14's player
August 27, 2009
Old timer Daz Phillips returned to 1st team action last night in the home victory over Ince Rose Bridge. Whilst Daz displayed some fine handling and kicking skills it was evident that he isn't as fast as he used to be as can be seen in this shot where the skinny 14 year old fullback of Ince was able to smash Daz. Daz actually looks quite frightened. See 1st Match Reports for a full report of the game.
Updated by siddalarlfc

KIDS SUMMER HOLIDAY CAMP WEDNESDAY 26th AUGUST
August 26, 2009
SIDDAL SPORTS & COMMUNITY CENTRE, following on from their successful Spring Bank Camp are running an activity camp throughout the school summer holidays. Activities will include Football, Rugby, Cricket, Athletics, Rounders, Multi Skills.....and many more. - 9:30am til 3:00pm - Aimed at boys AND girls aged 6 to 12 - Only 10 pounds per day To register or for more information: Email - siddalarlfc@hotmail.com Tel 01422 240124 Mob 07810434088 Children are required to bring their own lunch, drinks bottle and any other provisions e.g. suitable clothing, sun cream
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 32 WIDNES ST MARIES 12
August 22, 2009
New recruits Simeon Hoyle and Andy Senior will both figure when double-winning Siddal begin the unenviable task of trying to improve on perfection when they travel to Widnes St Maries in the Premier Division of the National Conference tomorrow. Lee Greenwood's side won both the league and National Cup last season, went within a whisker of knocking Championship One professionals Swinton out of the Challenge Cup and watched their second string pick up the Fee Cup. "We'd struggle to better last year, but the aim is to match it," said captain Nick Smith, who expects the promoted Cheshire side to offer a stern early test. "We are going to be the team everyone wants to beat this year, we have seen that already in pre season, and we need to learn to deal with that. The promoted teams always tend to be full of confidence early on in the season and I am sure St Maries will be no different. We just need to focus on doing what we do well and the result should take care of itself." Hoyle, who has returned to the club where he made his name as an amateur before going on to forge a solid career with Keighley, Halifax and Oldham, offers Greenwood a quality option at hooker in place of the departed John Birt. And Senior, the former West Bowling prop, looks a ready made replacement for veteran Gary Lewis, who has retired. "They're both good players and they should go well for us," said Smith. Siddal will also start the year with a new half back pairing, with BARLA international Lee Gudor currently nursing a broken hand, an injury that is expected to sideline him for several weeks, and Shaun Garrod currently playing with Huddersfield Giants' under 21 side alongside winger Gareth Blackburn. Loose forward Luke Simeunovich and utility back Gareth Jones are tipped to pair up at the scrum base tomorrow. "They won't be in their natural positions but they both know how we play and they'll get plenty of help from the players around them," said Smith. "I don't see it being a problem." The team bus will leave the club at 11:30am - all supporters welcome.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NCL SEASON NEARLY HERE
August 18, 2009
The National Conference League kicks off this coming Friday night when newly promoted Ince Rosebridge play hosts to rivals Wigan St.Judes with a 7.30pm kick off for their first ever Premier Division fixture that will certainly give them some idea of what they will need to do to consolidate their place in the top flight. It will prove a really tough test for the Rose Bridge players and coach Alan Woods will be eagerly hoping his side can pick up a win. �It is a first run out for our players in a game that will give us an indication of what we have to do to survive at this level" explained Alan. "We are well aware that the Premier Division will be tough for us as we are still a very young side with an average age of about 22, and we have not really recruited any new players to bolster the squad. But having said that, we did well last year, and with an extra year under our players� belts we have to feel they can kick on and make their mark. I have watched quite a bit of the Premier sides and for me the big difference is the speed at which the Premier division clubs play the ball, and they seem to generally be much more structured about their play. They seem to be slightly better organised. That may be just a perception, but they are areas that we will be working on to ensure we are just as well organised and ready to do what is necessary to keep that extra bit of pace going. Having said all that, players like the Baker brothers, Ryan and Tony, David Hoctor, Anthony Hampson and Craig Sanby all did exceedingly well last year, even though they were only just out of their teens, and Martin Greaves was exceptional. We have the evergreen Carl Roden to help steer us around the pitch and the lure of Premier division rugby was just too much for Andy Eatock, who has said he will give us one more season". Eatock and Roden will be key figures for the Bridge, but those youngsters in the side are almost certainly set to create a stir if they continue last season�s form. Champions Siddal begin the defence of their trophy with a trip to the other new boys Widnes St.Maries, where Lee Greenwood's side will be hot favourite to start with a win. Lee Gudor is certain to make his mark and Siddal will be hot favourites to make it two titles in a row. A Leigh East side that has recruited heavily throughout the close season will now be desperate to ensure they start with a comprehensive win over West Hull. Gary Middlehurst from outstanding NW Counties side Simms Cross, is one of their big coups along with the Miners Scott O'Brien. Title fancied East Hull travel to a side that will expect to go better than their top four finish of last season, York Acorn, for what should be a cracking opener, whilst Skirlaugh are at home to Oulton Raiders, who have Sasch Brook celebrating a tenth consecutive year in the Premier flight - arguably the only player to have achieved this at the very top level. Last season's first division Champions , Wath Brow Hornets begin with a long haul to Hull Dockers, where they have former Hull KR Man Gary Noble among their new signings, whilst Leigh Miners Rangers head to a Wigan St.Patricks club strengthened by the return of Mel Alker from Blackpool and Tony Suffolk from injury. The Miners will be without O'Brien, but have plenty of exciting young players from their highly successful Youth team of the past two seasons ready to break through. And they do it all again the following Wednesday as the clubs play League games either side of the Wembley Challenge Cup Final. Fri 21st August 2009 - 7 30pm Rnd 1 Ince Rosebridge v Wigan St Judes Sat 22nd August 2009 - 2 30pm Rnd 1 York Acorn v East Hull Skirlaugh v Oulton Raiders Hull Dockers v Wath Brow Hornets Widnes St Maries v Siddal Wigan St Patrick's v Leigh Miners Rangers Leigh East v West Hull Wed 26nd August 2009 - 7 30pm Rnd 2 Oulton Raiders v York Acorn West Hull v Skirlaugh East Hull v Hull Dockers Siddal v Ince Rosebridge Wath Brow Hornets v Widnes St Maries Wigan St Judes v Wigan St Patrick's Leigh Miners Rangers v Leigh East
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Elvis Challenge !!
August 15, 2009
In a re-run of the BARLA National Cup Final, Siddal and Wigan St Cuthberts will lock horns again this coming Saturday but for a far more prestigious trophy. The teams have agreed a winner takes all contest where the prize at stake is the Elvis Trophy or more accurately the Elvis shield that is currently on display in the Siddal clubhouse but which was secretly snatched away from the St Cuthberts fans on that glorious day at Fylde back in May. Uncertainty surrounds it's true origins with rumours circulating that the Cuthberts fans spirited the Elvis Shield away from an open removal van they passed on their way to the Cup Final. The owners have apparently offered a huge reward for it's safe return which is testimony to it's value. In the build up to the game, Siddal and St Cuthberts will also play each other at U16 and U12's and we are pleased to announce that Morley Borough will also bring a side over to play against a joint Siddal 'A' and 'B' team. Siddal also announce that we will be opening our newly constructed David Dawson Memorial Garden on Saturday. Finally, we are hopeful that the great man himself (Elvis that is) maybe making a comeback appearance live at the club. Refreshments will be available throughout the day and admission is free to everyone. Join us for what should be a great day. The running order will be something like this: 12.00 - U12's game 1.0pm - U16's game 2.0pm - Opening of David Dawson Memorial Garden. 2.15pm - Siddal v St Cuthberts 2.15pm - Siddal 'A'/'B' v Morley Borough 5.0pm - Presentation of Elvis Shield 5.45 - Elvis Live !!
Updated by siddalarlfc

(Past) Master at Work !!
August 14, 2009
Just what was Sut thinking as he got caught on camera here? Send your entries to siddalarlfc@hotmail.com and we'll post the best on the website.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Masters Race Night
August 13, 2009
Sut, Donks, Oatsey and Joe would like to thank all who attended the Masters Race Night, put a bet on the tricast or helped out with the catering and organisation...we raised nearly �1300 which will go towards our trip to Oz in September where we will represent the GB Masters, and the Siddal Masters Wembley trip. Thankyou.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

WARRIORS TAKE TITLE, SIDDAL BEAT BOWLING
August 10, 2009
Hunslet Warriors defeated Ovenden in the final of the Fitness First West Yorkshire Challenge, whilst Siddal overcame West Bowling in the 3rd place play-off.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

FITNESS FIRST WEST YORKSHIRE CHALLENGE LATEST
August 8, 2009
SIDDAL boss Lee Greenwood has declared his double-winning side's pre season preparations firmly on track, despite Saturday's reverse against Hunslet Warriors at Chevinedge. The Leeds outfit triumphed 18-16 on the first weekend of a two-stage Fitness First-backed warm up tournament, which saw Calderdale's other National Conference side, Ovenden, claim the notable scalp of West Bowling in the day's other game. Ovenden will now face off against the Warriors on Saturday afternoon (3.0), with Siddal tackling West Bowling (1.30). "I think both sides got what they wanted out of the game," said Greenwood, who steered Siddal to a stunning NCL and National Cup double in his first season in sole charge. "They obviously wanted the result, and they ended up winning it by kicking a penalty, which just underlines what a massive scalp we are now. "For us, it was more important that we got a tough game under our belts and it ended up being a decent run out. "I was pretty pleased with the things we have been working on. "It's going to be tough to improve on last year, but having won those titles we want to defend them and at the moment things are looking are okay." Greenwood, the Oldham winger, will shuffle his squad for this weekend's game, and could include his Roughyeds teammate Simeon Hoyle, who is waiting for his release from the Boundary Park club. "We've got a few hookers, but Simeon will be a quality addition for us," said Greenwood. Greenwood wasn't the only coach with reason to be satisfied, with Ovenden's Chris Parker happy with his team's 16-10 success. "It was a solid win for us," said Parker, who gave a start to former Keighley Albion centre Chris Gott. "Defensively we were good, which is an area we have worked hard on. "We're all looking forward to what should be a good test on Saturday now."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Masters at Brighouse
July 27, 2009
Our world renowned Masters Team took part in the recent Brighouse Festival against the hosts and the likes of Saddleworth and Waterhead. A rather famous ex Leeds Rhino and now Sky Sports expert took part and as you can see from this action shot was in a rather menacing mood. Indeed the referee had to brandish a little red card during the game against Siddal after Barrie Mac took a little disliking to one of our players. Now can you guess who that might have been? Who amongst our experienced squad would elect to run straight at the ex GB man, head down and with no regard for his own personal safety? Who amongst our squad would not have any need to worry about having his boyish good looks re-arranged? Which of our players would big, bad Barrie Mac select for a slap? Yep, you've guessed it. His name rhymes with 'Bonkers' and that's what he is for running anywhere near Mr McDermott when he was in that mood. Once he came round about 10 minutes after being laid out, our Steve, bless him, asked Barry if he wanted Donks autograph !!! Clearly the knock to the head had not had any affect on Donks !! Have a look at some more action shots from the Festival in the Gallery Page, under Masters. Oh, by the way, the side played about four games for a total of around seven hours and drew them all 0-0. Now "That's Entertainment" !!
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL A.G.M.
July 26, 2009
Siddal ARLFC are holding their AGM this year on Sunday 26th July 2009 at 11.0am. The club would be delighted to here from anyone interested in joining our committee and invite nominations for the positions of: Chairman Treasurer Secretary Football Sec N.C.L. Football Sec Pennine League Football Sec Junior Section Committee Send your nominations to simongreenwood@sky.com or join us at the meeting.
Updated by siddalarlfc

Amy's GB Call Up
July 25, 2009
Amy Hardcastle hopes to make her international debut little more than a year after taking the game up. Yet tomorrow, the 20 year old from Siddal looks likely to cap a whirlwind rise to prominence by becoming a fully fledged ladies international. Hardcastle, a full back or wing who starred for the newly-formed Siddal Ladies side last season, was one of three Halifax-based players - World Cup tourists Kirsty Moroney and Rachel Twibill were the others - named in a new, 27-strong elite squad by the Rugby Football League a fortnight ago. Now, the former Calderdale College student, who will kick off a sports degree at Huddersfield University in the autumn, is ready to take the next step as part of a 20-woman party that flew out to France yesterday for a two Test series. "It's unbelievable really, incredible," said Hardcastle, who has been playing for England coach Brenda Dobek's Wakefield Panthers side in the summer competition since Siddal finished their title-winning season in the spring. "I've only been playing since I saw an advert for the new ladies team at Siddal. I went training with them and things have gone from there really. "I've always been quite sporty, and I played football for my college, but I'd never really thought about rugby league before. To get the chance to represent my country, when I am still a pretty inexperienced player, would be brilliant. I just want to go out there and do my best." If Hardcastle does get the nod against France near Toulouse this weekend, she expects it to be on the flank, with Twibill getting the nod in the number one shirt. "I've only got to know Rachel recently, because she's been playing for Bradford, but she's a bit of an inspiration to me," said Hardcastle. "We trained at the weekend with her at full back and me on the wing, and I did pretty well, so I'm really confident of making the final 17. The England staff have obviously seen some potential in me and I just want to keep working hard and keep improving."
Updated by siddalarlfc

Cleaner Required
July 25, 2009
Siddal require a reliable cleaner to maintain the high standards of cleanliness throughout the clubhouse. Approximately five or six hours each weekend on both Saturday and Sunday mornings. Salary is negotiable but reflects the unsociable hours. If you are interested please contact the club secretary on 01422 367376.
Updated by siddalarlfc

Wigan v Leeds
July 24, 2009
Fancy taking in the Super League game at Wigan's JJB Stadium between Wigan and Leeds on Friday 24th July? Tickets for groups of ten or more are priced as low as 10 pounds for adults and five pounds for concessions. If you're interested contact Paul Dawber at Wigan Warriors on 01942 770405
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Sponsorship and Advertising Opportunities
July 10, 2009
Although the fantastic achievements of all our Open Age Teams in the Centenary Season are only a few weeks old, it's already time to start looking toward the new season. Would you like to advertise in our matchday programme, 'The Chevinedger', next season? Perhaps your employer might be interested in supporting one of the best amateur rugby league clubs in the country? Advertising costs: Full Page 100 pound + VAT Half Page 70 pound + VAT Quarter Page 35 pound + VAT Alternatively, would you or your employer like to sponsor some merchandise that our Open Age Players will wear next season? If you are keen to become a commercial partner with Siddal ARLFC or you would like to learn more, please contact Simon Greenwood by e-mail to simongreenwood@sky.com or call him on 07710098153.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Pre Season Training !!
July 8, 2009
Commences on Wednesday 8th July at the "Theatre of Dreams" that is Chevinedge from 6.30pm onwards and on every Monday and Wednesday evening thereafter. Training under Head Coach Lee Greenwood. Come and join the club whose Open Age Teams are presently: >NCL Premier Division Grand Final Winners. >BARLA National Cup Winners. >Halifax ARL Fee Cup Winners. >Pennine League Supplementary Cup Winners >Halifax ARL Handicap Cup Winners All existing, old and new players most welcome to join one of the leading amateur rugby league clubs in the country.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Under 18's National Youth League
July 7, 2009
Siddal ARLFC are delighted to announce that our Under 18's side have once again been invited to play in the National Youth League. Do you want to join our team and play against some of the best players in the country at this age group? Are you good enough to compete at this level? Many players who compete in this competition go on to play professional rugby. Think you're good enough to make it? You will receive first class coaching under Steve Greenwood and Martin Lewis and be part of a club that has enjoyed unprecedented success over the past decade. Interested? Find out more by calling Martin on 07912762514.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

FIJI DEFEAT BARLA AGAIN
July 1, 2009
In the final game of the Unison Tour of the South Pacific 2009 The BARLA Great Britain Lions went down to their fourth consecutive defeat of their five match tour as the twelve man Vodafone Fiji Bati held on for another close win to record a 2-0 Test Series win. Again it was a case of so near yet so far, as the Lions took an 8-0 lead only to be hit by three converted tries in a six minute period to lead 18-8 win which they stretched to 24-8 following a second interception try. The Lions came battling back through a genuine hat-trick by Scott Lofthouse (Kells) who put in a man of the match performance and was later named as the Ravensport International Player of the Tour. The Lions twice got within four points of Fiji but with the crowd screaming for the whistle the Lions once again ran out of time. The record for the tour will show one win four losses but such has been the margins of defeat that they have only lost by an aggregate of fourteen points having lost three games (including this game) by four points and one by two points. But the Lions squad, the youngest ever Open Age Squad with an average of twenty three can be proud of their efforts and will learn from their experience overseas. Ironically the Lions have helped immensely with their continuing development work on this tour which is a sad enditement of the Southern Hemisphere giants Australia and New Zealand who have never sent a representative side to Tonga, Samoa or Fiji. The Lions suffered a late pre match injury to Sam Radford (West Hull), and Dean Balmer (Leigh Miners Rangers) was drafted in and in the opening ten seconds of the game stand off Lee Gudor (Siddal) who had recovered from a dead leg to his right leg suffered the same injury again following his tackle but this time to his left. He battled on until the 24th minute when he had to be replaced and was unable to return to the field which proved a costly blow to the side. Up to that period both he and the side had played brilliantly as they gained the momentum with several of his well placed kicks and the forwards dominated territory and possession as a result . If being critical the side should have had a bigger lead that there play deserved but credit the Fiji defence. The Lions took a fourth minute lead following a Jamie Dallimore (Wigan St Cuthberts) after a high hit on forward Tony Suffolk (Wigan St Patricks) on the fifth tackle. On the next attack a Gudor 40/20 set the Lions up and winger Danny Moss (Skirlaugh) narrowly failed to get to Gudors chip on the last tackle. On 12 minutes he put a grubber in forcing a Fiji drop out but they held out. The Lions then got the try they deserved on 17 minutes as they made a break down the short side 40 meters out started by Suffolk.. He made great yards before passing outside to Leon Brennan (Leigh Miners Rangers) whose inside pass found Lofthouse who cut inside, through a gap to score by the posts. Dallimore added the extras but could do the same with a penalty attempt from the halfway line seven minutes later. Appearing in complete disarray Fiji failed to find touch with a penalty that Brennan rose high to take but the Lions then gave away a penalty on 27th minutes and all of a sudden Fiji clicked big time and Lions didn�t touch the ball for nearly ten minutes. Fiji ran the ball half backs Epeli Soro and Kaliova Tani moved the ball quickly down the right flank before releasing it to Josateki Ravueta and with a sudden surge of speed went 70 meters down the wing before cutting in to score under the posts and Nemani Suguturaga added the first of his four goals to get the score back to 8-6. On their next attack Fiji attacked down the same side causing panic in the Lions ranks and they somehow managed to keep the ball alive before skipper Iowane Divaves went in for a six pointer and they showed their handling skills again on 33 minutes to go downfield and saw Tani drive over from close range for a converted try. Fiji were in complete control and led by ten points at the break. The opening ten minutes was scrappy by both sides but following a Lions penalty on 51 minutes they were on the attack trying to claw their way. It looked that way as Dallimore found hooker Stephen Illingworth (West Bowling) but his long cut out pass was intercepted by Tani who went 80 meters under the post. The Lions were struggling at this stage and the Fiji forwards began to control the game putting some huge hits in to ruffle the Lions and also resulting in conceding a number of penalties. The referees patients was up as the Lions attacked the Fiji line and on 62 minutes and Etika Rokobuli was sent to the sin bin for a professional foul. From the penalty Dallimore and Ryan Fieldhouse combined for Lofthouse�s second and a Dallimore touchline conversion. The Lions sensed something and went for it and Fiji then went down to eleven men on 67 minutes after hooker Jope Tuivanuavou felled Lions skipper Lee Maskill (Sharlston Rovers) with a poor high shot. The Lions attacked continuously and brought it back to four points on 73 minutes as Dallimore and Brennan fed Lofthouse for his treble. On the next set Illingworth chipped over the Fiji defence Dallimore chased the kick but Fiji appeared to knock on but got the ball back. Three minutes later Fiji counter attacked and went 30-20 following a superb break down the middle and as the Lions tried to get back into line Seruvi Ralulu drove over by the posts and Malakai Tuiloa added the extras. The Lions went for the short kick off and Brennan again leapt high for the ball and as they attacked Sean Foster (Wigan St Cuthberts) made a superb thirty meter break. He appeared to be wrapped up by three Fiji defenders but he somehow offloaded to Fieldhouse who delightfully skipped over to make it 30-26. The Lions ran the ball from the restart but Fiji�s just held firm once again leaving the Lions devastated against a Fiji side containing seven players from last years World Cup squad and including three who played in the tournament. FIJI BATI: 1. Etuate Tagicakibau, 2. Esira Dokoni, 3. Josateki Ravueta, 4. Jone Wesele, 5. Jovilisi Tawake, 6. Kaliova Tani, 7. Epeli Soro, 8. Iowane Divavesi (Capt), 9. JopeTuivanuavou, 10. Timoci Yauvoli, 11. Rusiate Loloma, 12. Josua Koroibulu, 13. Eliki Ledua, 14. Malakai Tuiloa, 15. Viliame Tukano, 16. Apakuki Mata, 17. Asaeli Saravaki, 18. Seruvi Ralulu, 19. Etika Rokobuli, 20. Nemani Suguturaga. Tries: Tani 2,Ravueta, Divaves, Ralulu Goals: Suguturaga 4, Tuiloa BARLA GB LIONS : 1. Ryan Fieldhouse(Leigh East), 2. Danny Moss (Skirlaugh), 3. Lee Maskill (Sharlston Rovers), 4. Scott Lofthouse (Kells), 5. Leon Brennan (Leigh Miners Rangers), 6. Lee Gudor (Siddal), 7. Jamie Dallimore (Wigan St Cuthberts), 8. Richard Farrer (Egremont Rangers), 9. Stephen Illingworth (West Bowling), 10. Aaron Bradley (Hull Dockers), 11. Sean Foster (Wigan St Cuthberts), 12 Tony Suffolk (Wigan St Patricks), 13. Tom Hill (York Acorn). Substitutes: 14. Brett Waller (Skirlaugh), 15. Aaron Fewlass (Myton Warriors), 16. Sam Radford (West Hull), 17. James Craven (Thornhill Trojans), 18. Ben Kendall (Thornhill Trojans), 19. Gary Phillips (Wigan St Patricks), 20. Luke Varley (Castleford Panthers). Tries: Lofthouse 3, Fieldhouse Goals: Dallimore 5 Half-Time: 8 - 4 Referee: Laurence McDonnell (NSW, Australia) Attendance: Est 5,000 Weather: Dull & Humid BARLA Great Britain Lions Head Coach John Fieldhouse, "I�m in a state of shock at the moment and I was thinking that we were going to win that game but from looking very composed and in control leading 8-0 we just shot ourselves in the foot again. We couldn�t defend on our right hand side and Fiji scored three tries from three sets. "We talked about it at the break got them back into place and into shape with a few positional changes and as we are on the attack they intercept and it�s 24-8. I was thinking we�ll finish the game out but all of a sudden the boys decided to play rugby and began sticking to the game plan again as we did for the opening twenty five minutes, completing our sets varied kicking game and the side were hungry for it. "We got so near yet so far, five games one victory, four defeats but for a total of fourteen points. I think we would have probably settled for that if someone had said that at the beginning of the tour of the South Pacific. To not get that second victory is heartbreaking and all the lads are really really upset with tears in their eyes. "I�m gutted for them as well as myself and I think we deserved a second victory on the back of those two performances against the Fiji Bati. We have got better and better as the tour as gone on playing some outstanding rugby league . "The only thing that has beaten us is experience we haven�t got enough experience in the team to do the right things at the right time when you get a lead and then control the game and finish it off. I�ll take this as a learning curve with twenty one of the twenty eight squad under 24 yrs of age so i have got a lot to work with and a lot of building to do and as long as these guys are willing to work I�ll work twice as hard with them. "Scott Lofthouse has had a great tour and worked hard in all his games and finished as top try scorer. He has given everything and thoroughly deserves to have been named as the Ravensport International Player of the Tour."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

HALIFAX ARL PRESENTATION EVENING
June 29, 2009
THE Halifax Amateur Rugby League held its annual presentation dinner at the Shay for the first time. Around 100 guests were in attendance for the night which was compared by local celebrity and regular speaker at The Shay Peter Emmett. Siddal tookm prode of place at the ceremony as they were acknowledged for the tremendous record breaking season that the club has enjoyed. Their sweep of trophies included the National Conference Premier League Trophy, The BARLA National Cup, The Halifax Fee Cup, The Halifax Handicap Cup and The Pennine League Supplementary Trophy. Elland A were next up to collect their Joe Blackford Memorial Trophy once again after defeating King Cross Park in the final at Siddal. Ovenden completed the awarding of the main competition cups when they collected the Championship Trophy for their victory against Elland in the final. The individual awards were keenly contrested as always. Sporting Player of the year went to Boothtown Terriers veteran Dave Love in recognition of his outstanding career and the manner in which he plays the game. The young player of the year went to the highly-promising Jacob Fairbank of Elland who also picked up a recognition silver salver alongside Siddal's Lee Gudor for gaining representative international honours this season. The coach of the year was always going to be a closely contested affair but it was Steve Taylor of Elland who got the final vote for his record of turning the Elland club around and gaining them promotion back into the Pennine Premier League at the first time of asking. The clubman of the year usually goes to an unsung hero of the the Halifax Amateur Rugby League fraternity and their was no better recipient that Alan Walker for the tremendous amount of work he does for his club Greetland All Rounders. A full table of whistle blowers from the Halifax Referees Society were in attendance to see president Jim Whalley pick up the referee of the year award on behalf of the recipient former Halifax player Wilf George. Brighouse Rangers picked up the sporting team of the year award and were also applauded by member clubs for the loan of their ground to Halifax Irish for their RFL Challenge Cup tie against Dudley Hill. Finally The Halifax management member of the year award, which was presented by Pennine League President Stuart Brown, went to league veteran Dougie Booth for his continued work as secretary of the Halifax Amateur Rugby League.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

BARLA LOSE AGAINST FIJI
June 28, 2009
In a game that saw the lead change five times the BARLA Great Britain Lions nearly created the biggest shock in world rugby league by downing the colours of the Fiji Bati who reached the semi finals of last year�s World Cup in Australia. Trailing 8-4 at the break the Lions took the game to Fiji with some superb play in the second half and looked in control 16-12. A Lions mistake four minutes from time saw winger Lasaro Turagadrau score his second from a grubber to level the game and stand off Nemani Suguturaga�s kick won the game for them. Although amateurs Fiji had eight players from their World Cup squad including five who played in that competition and the healthy crowd of 3,000 considering the Union side were playing on the other side of the island was a good sign that the game is thriving over here. In fact guests in attendance at the game were the British High Commissioner Mac Mclachlan and the United States of America Ambassador Steve McGann who were highly delighted with the game they witnessed which can only be good for the game. Both sides went at each other hammer and tongue for domination with the Lions conceding a penalty within the opening 20 seconds. They kept them at bay and the battle continued with second row forward Tom Sibley (Millom) making some outstanding massive hits to repels Fiji. The Lions opened the scoring on nine minutes with their opening attack of the game with a superb effort. From the play the ball twenty meters out captain John McMullen (Wigan St Judes) spread a long cut out pass to half back partner Lee Gudor (Siddal) and the National Conference League player of the season fed Lee Waterman (Skirlaugh) who went through the hole for an unconverted try. The hits and tackling got harder in the opening quarter with Fiji getting the better field position but the Lions holding out. The Lions though were getting penalised for some high shots and on the back of back to back calls stand off Suguturaga cut the lead down to two points. It was still tough and physical with the Lions forwards interchanging to create domination but it couldn�t stop Fiji taking the lead on the half hour as on the last tackle Asaeli Saravaki scooted over from close range and Suguturaga added the extras. The Lions hit back with running rugby with a move that saw Richard George (Seaton Rangers) stopped ten meters out when Lee Gudor (Siddal) Gary Phillips (Wigan St Patrickis) began the break. Sam Radford (West Hull) just couldn�t take the pass when McMullen and Gudor combined and on was thought to be the fortieth minute Sibley who work rate deserved a try had one chalked off for offside as he chased a Gudor chip into the in goal. Somehow nine minutes of injury time was played but there was no further score. The Lions showed the ascendancy from the off in the second with Gudor putting in a superb 40/20 but Gudors�s grubber to the in goal came to nothing. But the Lions got the rub of the green as Gudor�s kick richotted in the in goal Carl Booth got the final touch to level the game at 8-8 after 44 minutes. The Lions continued to attack but went behind following a Booth knock on. From the scrum Fiji ran the ball down the line and Turagadrau scored in the corner to make it 12-8. On 53 minutes the Lions had the chance to cut the lead to two points but Waterman�s difficult effort hit the post. But the Lions continued to take the game to Fiji. Gudor who had a sensational second half put in another superb 40/20 and as he put in an angled grubber to the corner Fiji were penalised for offside. This time the Lions ran the ball and quick hands saw Jamie Dallimore (Wigan St Cuthberts) score in the corner and convert from the touchline on the hour. Gudor then created further mayhem two minutes later when his kick caused a Fiji knock on and on the last tackle the Lions were awarded a penalty for a high shot on Sibley who continued were he left off in the first forty. Waterman added the two and the Lions led 16-12 and deserved the lead. Fiji�s Suguturaga was causing problems to the Lions with partner Kaliova Tani and the formers chip caused problems for Booth who knocked on but the Lions defence held firm. Booth had further problems on 71 minutes following another chip from the stand off but this time Turagadrau lost possession in a great position. The Lions continued to attack and in attempting to keep the ball alive Fiji recovered possession after McMullen passed outside following a Dallimore break on 76 minutes. Fiji went upfield to break the Lions hearts and rob them of a giant killing. The Lions bravely chased for the winner as Dallimore made a superb break before passing inside to George who kicked chased but the Fiji line survived to win the game.. The Lions were devastated at the whistle and have lost their last three games by four points, four points and now two. They now go for the final Test next Wednesday wanting to get the result their outstanding efforts deserve but they have made the International Rugby League aware that they are a presence to be heard in the international game as a big player in the big picture. BARLA Great Britain Lions Head Coach John Fielhouse, "It is a hard defeat to take, similar to the Samoa game and it�s heart breaking to lose in those circumstances but that�s international rugby league and w e deserved at the very least a draw. Both sides were committed but from one to seventeen we were immense and magnificent out there especially in the second half and we scored some superb tries. "We the coaches have been very working with the squad explaining what we want and how to play our game plan and it worked today. Our kicking game was superb our defence was awesome and the running rugby was a great advertisement of our game. We conceded two soft tries one from a kick and the one in the first half were they drove over. "There are no gimme�s in international rugby league and these BARLA players realise these small things cost matter and they know that they are capable of being international players at the highest level. They have shown they can do it our game plan worked it�s a formula that works and it�s worked throughout my coaching career. As long as this team stick to it I would like to think that we are getting closer to it two for point defeats, a two point defeat and I think the boys although now down will be ready and up for the Second Test next Wednesday." FIJI BATI: 1. Seruvi Ralulu, 2. Etutae Tagicakibau, 3. Etika Rokobuli, 4. Jone Wesele, 5. Lasaro Turagadrau, 6. Nemani Suguturaga, 7. Kaliova Tani, 8. Iowane Divavesi, 9. Asaeli Saravaki, 10. Osea Sadrau, 11. Suliasi Nawaqa, 12. Malakai Tuiloa, 13. Sitiveni Logaivau. Substitutes: 14. Josua Koroibulu, 15. Apakuki Mate, 16. Josateki Ravueta, 17. Epeli Soro, 18. Esira Dokoni, 19. Viliame Tukana, 20 Eliki Ledua. Tries: Turagagrau 2, Saravaki Goals: Suguturaga 3 BARLA GREAT BRITAIN LIONS 1. Ryan Fieldhouse (Leigh East), 2. Leon Brennan (Leigh Miners Rangers, 3. Scott Lofthouse (Kells), 4. Lee Maskill (Sharlston Rovers), 5. Carl Booth (Myton Warriors), 6. John McMullen (Capt) (Wigan St Judes), 7. Lee Gudor (Siddal), 8. Richard Farrer (Egremont Rangers), 9. Gary Phillips (Wigan St Cuthberts), 10. Trevor Penrose (Skirlaugh), 11. Luke Varley (Castleford Panthers), 12 Tom Sibley (Millom), 13. Lee Waterman (Skirlaugh). Substitutes: 14. Brett Waller (Skirlaugh), 15. Aaron Fewlass (Myton Warriors), 16. Sam Radford (West Hull), 17. Dean Balmer (Leigh Miners Rangers), 18. Richard George (Seaton Rangers), 19. Jamie Dallimore (Wigan St Cuthberts, 20. James Craven (Thornhill Trojans) Tries: Waterman, Booth, Dallimore Goals: Dallimore 2 Half-Time: 8 4- Referee: Laurence McDonnell (NSW, Australia) Attendance: Est 3,000 Weather:Dull & Humid
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

BARLA FALL SHORT AGAINST SAMOA
June 21, 2009
The BARLA Great Britain Lions lost a tense Test Match against Toa Samoa after staging a brave fight back when 20-6 down just after the hour after leading 6-2 at the break. Two Lions in tries in four minutes by centre Scott Lofthouse (Kells) and fullback Ryan Fieldhouse (Leigh East) cut the lead down to four points but as they bravely tried to keep the ball at all times they couldn�t score the next try to at least level the scores. The Samoa side containing Tupu Ulufale and Lepupa Taualagi who played in last years World Cup literally threw the kitchen sink at the Lions through their physical forwards from the start. Lee Gudor (Siddal) was taken out after kicking on the last tackle after 40 second after the first set and the Lions were awarded a penalty. Lee Waterman (Skirlaugh) stepped up to kick the first of his four goals from five and the Lions led 2-0. Samoa continued driving in with at times borderline tackles giving little yards to the Lions and their game plan for Gudor to kick downfield worked well. All the Lions side defended manfully especially after four minutes when a move involving Samoa�s forward Tutasi Masoe and Chris Lei-Sam saw the former stopped five meters short. The home side continued their charge and levelled the game on nine minutes when the Lions were penalised for interference at the play the ball and stand off Filo Lepou who was to also kick four goals made it 2-2 from 30 meters. The Lions were gradually getting into the Samoa half and a second Lions penalty for flopping saw waterman make it 4-2 after 18 minutes. The half continued hard and physical and the Lions had a half chance on 27 minutes following a superb Gary Phillips (Wigan St Patricks) break, the hooker passed it onto Fieldhouse but as he got his pass out wide the Lions couldn�t take the pass Samoa s forwards continued to drive forward with the Lions feeding on scraps losing the ball at vital times and they had a let off when Lepou kick a penalty wide. But after the Lions had lost early possession it looked like Samoa would score. But Lee Maskill (Sharlston Rovers) produced a magnificent one on one ball steal on Masoe to drive twenty meters forward. From the quick play the ball Brett Waller (Skirlaugh) drove downfield before being dangerously tackled and dropped to the floor giving the Lions another penalty on 38 minutes and Waterman duly obliged for a four point lead at the break. During the break the four thousand crowd were entertained to a surreal ten minute segment from the musical Grease performed by Samoan six dancers. The Lions took the game to Samoa in the opening minutes which saw Ulufale knock on twice in quick succession but the visitors twice lost possession in good position. As often happens Samoa hit back with three tries in seven minutes which completely changed the game with the Lions hardly touching the ball or getting any possession. On the last tackle on 45 minutes the Lions defence couldn�t take a Lepou bomb and the ball bounced kindly for hooker Taualagi who zipped over in the corner to make it 6 all. Three minutes scrum half and skipper Paul Chang-Tung put in a superb grubber down the short side and winger Tanielu Pasese got to the ball just before Fieldhouse to score by the posts for a converted try. The Lions then conceded a penalty on the fifth tackle of the next set and after running the ball Lei-Sam drove over in the corner from close range Lepou adding from the touchline to give his side a twelve point lead. On the hour a Lepou penalty made it 20-6 and the game looked gone for the Lions. With nothing to lose the Lions went for and substitute Sam Radford (West Hull) inspired them with a 35 meter angled drive through Samoa defenders and only Ulufale last gasp tackle saving a try. The Lions then lost the ball out wide but immediately got the ball back on 64 minutes to score a superb try. From the play the ball Gudor spun the ball out to John McMullen (Wigan St Judes) who found Fieldhouse and his pass saw Scott Lofthouse (Kells) over in the corner and Waterman�s touchline effort made it 20-12.. The Lions tales were up and four minutes later McMullen and Gary Phillips (Wigan St Patricks) combined to go 50 meters downfield only for the hooker to lose his footing. From the play the ball the Lions switched direction of play and Fieldhouse took Gudors flat pass to drive through three defenders to score in the corner to leave them four points adrift. Samoa were in a state of shock and even went for a drop goal from Afa Lesa on 72 minutes which went wide. The Lions pressed to get downfield but lost the ball at times when desperate to keep the ball alive. As the hooter went the Lions had a scrum in their own twenty and as they kicked chased downfield Samoa took the ball and held it for a famous win. The Unison Tour of the South Pacific now moves onto Fiji on Tuesday for two Test against the Fiji Batis BARLA Great Britain Lions skipper Trevor Penrose, "The first half was a great effort and we led 6-2 at half time, the second half the first ten minutes we just come out and they scored three quick fire tries which really effectively ended it for us. We had a bit of a fight back got the line speed back in the attack but couldn�t just do it. "It�s been a great experience for the lads who gave everything today as they have done all through the tour, we have grafted really hard and it�s a shame when you play that well and come away without a victory its tough. It�s hard to take I�m so upset as I was making my debut skippering the side in a Test Match but we will work hard as team and get ready for Fiji and we will bounce back against them." Gary Charlton BARLA Great Britain Lions Assistant Coach "We run out of time chasing the game but it was our own fault we never took our chances when we should have taken them. They scored try after try after try and we lost our composure after half time, not completing our sets. We never did anything in those opening ten minutes we just stood still, never got involved and we came out losing. "The boys went for it trailing by fourteen points, there is a will to win in this team but we can�t keep on giving silly errors and people we are asking to take control are not taking control and that�s been our downfall in this game as well as the Patriots game "The lads gave us 110% every time but we have got to be smarter in our play and the players we expect to be smarter aren�t doing it at the moment but we still go to Fiji confident and positive that we can perform against in the two test." TOA SAMOA:1. Tupu Ulufale, 2. Tanielu Pasese 3. Chris Lei-Sam, 4. Gasolo Salima, 5. Afa Poalaga, 6. Filo Lepou, 7. Paul Chang-Tung (Capt), 8. Tile Poutoa, 9. Lepupa Taualagi, 10. Maugaloto, 11. Sio Iosefo, 12. Tutasi Masoe, 13. Maika Felise, 14. Afa Lesa, 15. Suki Fuimaono, 16. Sam Yue, 17. Anesi Seiuli. Tries: Taualagi, Pasese, Lei-Sam Goals: Lepou 4 BARLA Great Britain Lions: 1.Ryan Fieldhouse (Leigh East), 2. Carl Booth (Myton Warriors), 3. Lee Maskill (Sharlston Rovers), 4. Scott Lofthouse(Kells), 5. Danny Moss (Skirlaugh), 6. Richard George (Seaton Rangers), 7. Lee Gudor (Siddal), 8. Aaron Bradley (Hull Dockers), 9. Gary Phillips (Wigan St Patricks), 10. Trevor Penrose Capt) (Skirlaugh), 11. Sean Foster (Wigan St Cuthberts), 12. Luke Varley (Castleford Panthers), 13. Lee Waterman (Skirlaugh), 14. John McMullen (Wigan St Judes), 15. Sam Radford (West Hull), 16. Tony Suffolk (Wigan St Patricks), 17. Brett Waller (Skirlaugh). Tries: Lofthouse, Fieldhouse Goals: Waterman 4 Half Time: 2-6 Referee: Danny Olford (New South Wales, Australia) Weather: Dull, Humid Very Hot
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

GUDOR & BARLA READY FOR SAMOA
June 20, 2009
BARLA Great Britain Head Coach John Fieldhouse has named his seventeen man squad to face Samoa in the Test Match, the third game of the Unison Tour of the South Pacific 2009. The game is being played at Apia Park on Saturday 20th June and kicks off at 3,30pm. Lee Maskill of Sharlston Rovers who captained the Lions side in the midweek 18-14 defeat to the Samoa Patriots has been named as captain of the side for the Lions Test side. Lee Maskill BARLA Great Britain Lions Captain "It is the greatest honour I have had to lead the BARLA Great Britain Lions in this Test match against Samoa and something I will never forget. I captained the side in the midweek defeat against the Samoa Patriots when he had ten debutants playing their first ever game for their country. We made a few mistakes in that defeat which hurt everyone on the tour as we are all in this together "This squad and this side have a great hunger and desire to succeed at the highest level and that is what we will be putting into this game tomorrow. We know we didn�t perform in that defeat but our energy has been renewed and we are all ready for the challenge. We are here to help develop the game in the South Pacific but we are here to win the last three Test Matches of this tour." John Fieldhouse BARLA Great Britain Lions Head Coach "The midweek defeat is now behind us and since then have focused on thisforthcoming Test Match against Samoa. The boys have responded in training as I expected they would and I have picked a side to do the job on Saturday." "I have made some positional changes in the team and we have a new half back combination in Lee Gudor and Richard George. Lee is a great kicker and I know what he can do and I saw Richard George play against the South Africa Rhinos last year so I know how he can play." "We will have three captain s on the field during the game, Lee will lead the side out and captain the backs and vice captain Trevor Penrose will captain the forwards. Then John McMullen comes on off the bench he will take overall responsibility. We know how Samoa will play and if the players work to our game plan I am confident we can get the result we want for the team and our country." The Squad 1.Ryan Fieldhouse (Leigh East, 2. Carl Booth (Myton Warriors), 3. Lee Maskill (Capt) (Sharlston Rovers), 4. Scott Lofthouse (Kells), 5. Danny Moss (Skirlaugh), 6. Richard George (Seaton Rangers), 7. Lee Gudor (Siddal), 8. Aaron Bradley (Hull Dockers), 9. Gary Phillips (Wigan St Patricks), 10. Trevor Penrose (Skirlaugh), 11. Sean Foster (Wigan St Cuthberts), 12. Luke Varley (Castleford Panthers), 13. Lee Waterman (Skirlaugh), 14. John McMullen (Wigan St Judes), 15. Sam Radford (West Hull), 16. Tony Suffolk (Wigan St Patricks), 17. Brett Waller (Skirlaugh).
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Siddal's Civic Reception
June 17, 2009
Siddal ARLFC completed their season 2008/09 celebrations with a Civic Reception at Halifax Town Hall. The Mayor and his Deputy welcomed players, officials and supporters representing the club to mark the fantastic Centenary Season the club enjoyed. Here's a shot of the club's two newest supporters flanked by Jeff and Smudge with the BARLA National Cup and the NCL Grand Final Trophy.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

GUDOR AND BARLA VICTORIOUS IN TONGA
June 13, 2009
The Unison BARLA Great Britain Lions got their tour off to a great start recovering from 12-10 down at the break and 18-16 down to score three tries in the final fourteen minutes to take the spoils. In a game shown live in Tonga on Pacific Sky the 7,000 crowd were thrilled with some exciting running rugby in the second half in a game when the lead changed four times and the highlights of BARLA�s six tries was the final effort in the last minute. It didn�t look that way from the kick off when the Lions allowed the ball to go dead in the ingoal forcing a BARLA drop out. The defence firm as Tonga gained a foothold in the BARLA half which wasn�t helped when Lee Gudor (Siddal) kicked straight into touch on the last tackle on five minutes. They then conceded a penalty a minute for interference at the play the ball and from that set Tonga took the lead as fullback Etueni Stua drove over from close range and stand off Sione Taukapo added the extras. From the restart Tonga prop Kuli Tonga took the ball and drove forward but was pole axed in a legitimate double tackle by Lions forwards Luke Varley (Castleford Panthers) and Trevor Penrose (Skirlaugh), who had to off for stitches. An ambulance drove onto the field in a lengthy hold up as Kuli was taken to hospital for concussion. From the resulting scrum the Lions had their best attack of the game but lost the ball in a good position and from that they then gave away a penalty for a high shot but were let off when Tonga knocked on metres from the line. The Lions then got their act together following a penalty on the last tackle and from that they ere awarded another penalty which saw Ryan Fieldhouse (Leigh East) scoot over for a fine individual effort from twenty metres. Lee Waterman (Skirlaugh) missed the conversion having a poor day with the boot landing only three from eight. The Lions discipline continually let them down forcing constant defending and they were feeding on scraps but when Brett Waller (Skirlaugh) and Aaron Bradley (Hull Dockers joined the fray they looked a different side. But another penalty proved costly and on the first tackle forward Pila Ha�angata crashed over on the first tackle on the first tackle for a converted try. They thought they had scored a try on the next set but in a game defining moment the try for Heneli Fa�aumu was chalked off. From being potentially 16-4 down going into they went up the other end of the field to be only 12-10 behind. The influential Gudor had initially put a grubber into the ingoal forcing a drop out and from the next set a Gudor grubber on the last tackle saw Waller score under the posts and Waterman added the extras The Lions had to continually defend but should have been level on the stroke of half time following a penalty bang in front of the sticks for not playing the ball. To the surprise of the large crowd Waterman missed the kick. But being completely outplayed the Lions went into the break only two points behind. In the opening minute of the second half the Lions took the lead after Tonga lost the ball and as the ball went down the line and centre Richard George went in at the corner for the first of his brace and the Lions led for the first time 16-12 following Waterman�s touchline conversion. The Lions were in control through superb play from hooker Gary Phillips (Wigan St Patricks) with his superb scoots from half back and superb tackling and was a thorn in the Tonga side who couldn�t handle his speed of thought. But as the side looked in complete control and Bradley was held short Tonga retook the lead on 51 minutes following another penalty. Taukapo put a high chip to the corner and Tevita Okati leaped to take the ball and score to make it 18-16. Five minutes later Phillips made a superb midfield break but winger Carl Booth (Myton Warriors). The next minutes they had a penalty in a good position but chose to run and gave away a penalty. The Lions were in complete control as Tonga began to tire and Fieldhouse just failed to take a Leon Brennan chip under the posts on the last tackle on 64 minutes. But two minutes later they took the lead they were not to lose wit a superb George second, From the ply the ball Gudor found the centre who side stepped inside creating a large hole which he went through to score to make it 20-18. Three minutes Booth put a superb tackle on his opposite number Heneli Fa�aumuand forced him into touch. From the scrum Gudor made a superb break but had no support, he then produced a great hit on Okati. Gudor and George combined for Fieldhouse who lost the ball five meters from the line but Tonga then managed to do the same ten metres from his line which saw BARLA increase their lead on 73 minutes. A move involving superb handling from Gudor, George, Danny Moss (Skirlaugh) saw centre Scott Lofthouse (Kells) score in the corner to make it 24-18 to the Lions. Tonga tried a short kick off which the Lions were awake to and they went downfield and were awarded a penalty. This time Waterman made no mistake and the two points gave his side an eight point buffer. Tonga battled on gamely but the try of the game came in the final minute when the Lions kept the ball alive at every moment and twelve passes later including a switch of play Booth finished off magnificently in the corner. The referee blew the final whistle and the Lions went off to a great ovation. Lions Head Coach John Fieldhouse, �A good win and more to come I�m really ecstatic at the moment all the players because it has been hard on the tour. Thirty six hours on a plane and four training sessions and then they have had to turn up and front up against a Tonga team and know that they are going to come at you fast and physical. �The players were a bit daunted at the outset and the first twenty minutes took us by surprise we had lots of shakiness and nerves. Once we composed ourselves and managed to get it to 12-10 at half time we showed what we could do with the wind and conditions in our favour there was only one winner.� Lions captain John McMullen �It was a good win not the best performance but it was the first time for this squad with a lot of new players in the team. But they stood up to be counted and we pulled it together for the win in the second half. �We put in the hard training before we got here and since our arrival and it showed what we have been working on during that time and I am more than pleased with the effort and the opening win of the tour.� TONGA: 1. Etueni Stua, 2. Tevita Okati, 3. Deon Mapukara, 4. Konievi Fihau, 5. Heneli Fa�aumu, 6. Sione Taukapo, 7. Taufa Fukofuka, 8.Kuli Tona, 9. Pila Pone, 10. Semisi Tuikoloratu, 11. Pauli Taumotkeav, 12. Pila Ha�angata, 13. Paulo Fa�qoso, 14. Junior Okati, 15. Sione Tuifua, 16. Elioti Tonga, 17. Katalau Vea�ila, 18. Ngalu Maile Tries: Stua, Ha�angata, Okati Goals: Taukapo 3 BARLA GREAT BRITAIN LIONS 1. Ryan Fieldhouse, 2. Carl Booth, 3. Richard George, 4. Scott Lofthouse, 5. Danny Moss, 6. John McMullen, 7. Lee Gudor, 8. Dean Balmer, 9. Gary Phillips, 10. Trevor Penrose, 11. Luke Varley, Ben Kendall, 13. Lee Waterman, 14. James Craven, 15. Leon Brennan, 16. Jon Walker, 17. Aaron Bradley, Brett Waller Tries: Fieldhouse, Waller, George 2, Lofthouse, Booth Goals: Waterman 3 Referee: Leon Williamson HT : 12-10 Weather: Hot & Sunny Man-of-the-Match: Gary Phillips (BARLA)
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Winners are Grinners !!!
June 12, 2009
Here's a shot of three of our great NCL Team picking up the League Leaders Shield, the Grand Final Trophy and the NCL Player of the Year Award (Lee Gudor) at the recent NCL Awards Dinner.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

GUDOR READY FOR TOUR
June 5, 2009
SIDDAL half back Lee Gudor will crown a near-perfect season when he jets off on BARLA's tour to the South Pacific next week. And the Chevinedge playmaker, who starred in the club's National Cup win over Wigan St Cuthberts recently, cannot wait. "I am really looking forward to it," said Gudor. "I can't wait to get over there and start playing. "They're taking 28 players and we've been training for a few months now, every other week on Sunday mornings, and I am sure they have a good idea of their best team. "Because there are so many games, everyone will get a chance to play. "It's the kind of trip that if I didn't do it with BARLA, I would never do in my life. "With the season Siddal have had, it doesn't get any better. It's happy days at the moment." Gudor, who was recently crowned local Amateur Sportsman of the Year in the Courier Sports Awards at the Victoria Theatre, Halifax, has already had a close-up look at of one of his potential rivals for a half back berth, St Cuthberts' talented 22 year old Jamie Dallimore. Dallimore was his side's best performer in an eventual mismatch at Fylde, Siddal running out 38-14 winners, but Gudor saw enough to be impressed. "He's a good player and he did well," said Gudor, who reckons Siddal's margin of victory should have been even more emphatic. "He's got a good kicking game and takes the ball forward well. "They're a good side, but we play a lot faster rugby week in, week out and we should have put a lot more points on them. "At times we were quite solid but once it opened up for us we probably forced the ball a bit too much. "We kept them in the game by not completing our sets and that was why it ended up relatively close." Gudor will get on the plane with the National Conference League Player of the Year trophy in his bag. Gudor took the trophy ahead of Skirlaugh's Lee Waterman and Wigan St.Patricks' Gary Phillips, and he was obviously delighted to pick up the top individual award for the NCL season. "I owe a great deal to the rest of the team, especially our pack." he said. " No halfback can do anything without a strong platform and that's certainly provided by our forwards. "This award is for the side as a whole - there are no egos in this squad and that's maybe been the secret of our tremendous season. "I thought perhaps we'd peaked a little bit too early, but the home defeat against East Hull in the qualifying semi-final was probably the jolt we needed."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

GUDOR CONFERENCE PLAYER OF THE YEAR!
June 2, 2009
Lee Gudor of Siddal is the National Conference League Player of the Year. The mercurial halfback was a key figure in securing the championship, Minor Premiership and Ace Insurance (Europe) National Cup for the Halifax side, and received the accolade at the NCL Awards ceremony at the Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley. Sky TV presenter, Angela Powers, presented the trophies and with former RFL Media man, David Howes, keeping the whole event running smoothly, the packed audience appeared to thoroughly enjoy their evening. Lee took the trophy ahead of Lee Waterman(Skirlaugh)and Gary Phillips(Wigan St Pats), and he was obviously delighted to pick up the top individual award for the NCL season. Lee told us: I owe a great deal to the rest of the team, especially our pack. No halfback can do anything without a strong platform and that is certainly what our forwards provided this season. This award is for the side as a whole. There are no egos in this squad and that has maybe been the secret of our tremendous season. I thought perhaps we had peaked a little bit too early, but the home defeat against East Hull in the Qualifying Semi-final was probably the jolt we needed. Lee is now looking forward to touring the South Pacific with the BARLA GB side and then returning to pre season training with the champions in preparation for the defence of the NCL and National Cup titles.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

OPEN AGE TROPHY WINNERS 2008/09
June 2, 2009
Siddal ARLFC held their season ending Presentation Evening in the clubhouse on Friday 29th May. Trophy winners were as follows - 1st Team Player of the Year - Luke Simeunovich 1st Team Players' Player - Brad Attwood 1st Team Supporters' Player - Luke Simeunovich 1st Team Most M.O.M.'s - Brad Attwood 1st Team Most Improved - George Ambler 1st Team Hitman - Richard Pearson 1st Team Top Tryscorer - Scott Caley 2nd Team Player of the Year - 2nd Team Players' Player - 2nd Team Most Improved - 2nd Team Sportsman - 3rd Team Player of the Year - 3rd Team Players' Player -
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Coach's Reflections
May 26, 2009
Siddal coach Lee Greenwood insisted he always knew what his team were capable of after they completed a stunning clean sweep of the amateur game's top prizes with victory in the National Cup final at Blackpool on Saturday. Greenwood's side, who took out the National Conference Grand Final a little over a fortnight ago, bossed the decider against Wigan St Cuthberts, running out 38-14 winners. For Greenwood, who took joint charge alongside Huddersfield and England half back Luke Robinson three years ago before assuming sole control last autumn, the double is a remarkable achievement after a difficult start to life as a head coach. "The first two years were pretty hideous injury wise and we couldn't patch two halves of the season together," said Greenwood. "We'd either start horribly and finish well or start well and tail off, but this year we've just been consistent all season. "I always knew what this team could do and once we got through a couple of rounds of the National Cup and got a sniff of top spot we wanted all three. "This probably started at Christmas 2007 when we got Luke Simeunovich, Brad Attwood and Scott Law back from Halifax. "We lost Scott but kept the other two and then Shaun Garrod and Scott Caley jumped on board as well. "We've had a settled team this year and that's been a big factor for us. "It was another challenge when we finished top of the Conference. "It's okay being good all year but you need to raise it to another level when you get to this time of the year. "East Hull taught us a lesson in that first play off game and we learned from it. "It's going to be hard to top this, I suppose we'll have to make sure we win the Halifax Championship as well next year." Siddal, who only arrived at the ground 40 minutes before kick off after a series of accidents sparked motorway chaos, never looked in danger of defeat once Chris Marsh's fourth-minute try eclipsed a second-minute St Cuthberts' touchdown. "I would definitely have taken that scoreline before the game, but I'm not too sure now," said Greenwood. "They had a bit to offer in attack, but if that had been a normal game I would probably have been disappointed with our performance. "But finals are all about winning, people get edgy and tense, and they're not often great games. "Once we scored a couple of tries we knew we were going to win and people started doing their own thing a bit too much. "But we still scored some decent tries and could have had a hell of a lot more." Simeunovich took the individual plaudits, just edging out BARLA tourist Lee Gudor after a typically industrious 80 minutes at loose forward. "Luke's always the same," laughed Greenwood. "He's there all the time, for 80 minutes. "He's first there in defence and always ready to take the ball forward. It's ridicuous, but it's what he does."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Treble Winners !
May 26, 2009
SIDDAL have beaten Wigan St Cuthberts 38-14 to win the the BARLA National Cup final at Blackpool. It completes a remarkable Cup and Conference double for Lee Greenwood's side, who pulled clear in the second half after leading 18-14 at the break. Siddal made the worst possible start when St Cuthberts half back David Fairhurst scored inside two minutes, stand off Jamie Dallimore adding the extras. But Siddal went on to dominate the opening half hour, carving out chance after chance. Chris Marsh, Shaun Garrod and John Birt all touched down, with Shaun Blackburn adding three conversions. St Cuthberts came home strongly though, back rower Steve Howarth scoring and Dallimore adding the conversion and a late penalty. Siddal got the crucial try seven minutes after the interval, Scott Caley touching down and Blackburn adding the two points for a 24-14 lead. Tries from man of the match Luke Simeunovich, Marsh and Blackburn rounded off a historic afternoon's work.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Donks Rage !!
May 25, 2009
Did anyone see Donks lose it again on Saturday night? Looked something like this !!
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Kids Spring Bank School Holiday Camp @ Siddal ARLFC
May 25, 2009
Siddal Sports & Community Centre are holding a Spring Bank School Holiday Camp for boys and girls age 7 to 12. Activities will include rugby, football, athletics, multi-skills and many more. �Only �10 per day �Tues 26th,Weds 27th & Thurs 28th May �10:00am-3:00pm Children will need to bring packed lunch and a water bottle and outdoor provision appropriate to weather e.g. sun screen if required. Places are limited so booking in advance is advisable. Contact us to register your child: Email - siddalarlfc@hotmail.com Telephone � 01422 315688 or 07737209960
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Masters at Play !!
May 22, 2009
See Siddal ARL Masters taking on the cream of the North in this weekend's Masters Tournament at Siddal ARLFC on Sunday 24th May. Legends taking part include: Mick Scott (Halifax/Siddal) Graham Garrod (Halifax/Siddal) Paul Sutcliffe (Bradford/Siddal) Barrie McDermott (Leeds/Wigan/Waterhead) Chris Burton (GB/Drighlington) Teams from Siddal, Drighlington, Brighouse, Waterhead and guest side Halifax Mongrels will be competing against each other. Kick off is 2.0pm. Entry is free. Other attractions include: BBQ/Bar/RL Skillszone/Auction/Raffle The weather forecast is good so get down to see the legends of the game in action once again.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NATIONAL CUP FINAL BUILD UP
May 22, 2009
In the Semi Finals of the Ace Insurance (Europe) BARLA National Cup Siddal were drawn at home to Queens of the CMS Yorkshire League Premier Division and they had already clinched their championship for this season. In a titanic struggle Siddal defeated Queens 28-21 and the road to Fylde was complete clinching a place in the Ace Insurance (Europe) BARLA National Cup for the first in the clubs history. Head Coach Lee Greenwood said, �We knew that it was going to be a tough semi final as any side would and they don�t come much better than Queens outside of the National Conference League. Like Wigan St Cuthberts Queens had been the giant killers of this years BARLA National Cup and we didn�t want to be the next club on their role of honour. �They had beaten us twice last year in this Cup and the Challenge Cup and we knew they had knocked out some good sides in this competition including Leigh East and that they had already clinched their championship in their league. We knew what to expect from a good hard physical team with some fast experienced backs. �We had a fantastic crowd on that well over a thousand and we were always playing catch up and at one point we were 21-16 behind. This season we have been made of different stuff and even though we didn�t play great we managed to comeback and win it whereas I think in years gone by we probably wouldn�t have and would have probably caved in. �But as we had shown in the league and in the recent grand final this team is made of a different material and we won the game in the last eight minutes and I had amazing emotions when the whistle blew for full time. The game wasn�t won until the final seconds and the final scoreline didn�t reflect the game and Queens played some great stuff. FIRST ROUND BYE SECOND ROUND WIGAN ST PATRICKS 10 SIDDAL 14 THIRD ROUND SIDDAL 52 OLDHAM ST ANNES 12 FOURTH ROUND SIDDAL 28 THATTO HEATH CRUSADERS 12 SADDLEWORTH RANGERS 2 SIDDAL 16 SEMI FINAL SIDDAL 28 QUEENS 21 In the semi final of the Ace Insurance (Europe) BARLA National Cup Wigan St Cuthberts gained the home draw against another National Conference League Premier Division side West Hull who were in a dogfight to survive relegation. In another last second finale Wigan St Cuthberts won 25-24 in a game of two halves to reach the final for the first time ever completing their journey to Fylde Joint Head Coach Martin McLoughlin gives his thought on the first half of the game � On a bright sunny day we had a slight wind advantage in that first half and they scored first, after that we kicked on and we were very, very good. The forwards and backs played well, the best first half they had played all season. �If someone would have offered us 22-6 at half time we would have take there hand off. It was a good lead and we played really well but and we looked really good. West Hull is a very good team, I know they were struggling in the league but they have always been a good team. We knew they would come back a little bit as we knew they had good players and that they were going to have a spell sometime in the game when they were going to get back into the game.� Joint Head Coach Tim Sharkey gave his thoughts on the half time team talk and the second half �At half time we got the guys back and sat them down, calmed them down, the massive crowd of 2000 thought we had won it. I said to the lads no-one has ever played forty minutes and won a game there�s another forty to go you need to do what you did in the first half. Its going to be a bit repetitive let�s keep our shape, we need to keep ball retention, play it tough around the ruck and make sure both half backs of West Hull who had been creating danger are checked and kept on the back foot. �Unfortunately these guys at West Hull are a very, very good side and over the years a lot of great players have been produced. They were not going to sit down and let St Cuthberts take it to them and after their good second half talk together they came back at us beginning with a quick fire try and it was game on. I think we had a couple guys out there in the second half who thought the game was already won. �The catalyst of our team is Jamie Dallimore; he couldn�t get on the front foot because they were hammering us in the forwards in that second half. We were on the back foot like I say and then ball control became second best, discipline slipped down and they had a purple patch. That wind did play a big part in the second half and they kicked us to death we couldn�t get out of our half for long periods and they played off our mistakes. �Fortunately these guys don�t know how to die and they were not going to let this large crowd go home crying. We had about 2000 �Norley Hallers� breathing down West Hulls necks at that point I had gone through about three sets of finger nails. We were trailing by two points very late in the game and were awarded a penalty Martin was closing his eyes, it was nail biting stuff but Jamie Dallimore is a big game player and stepped up with the two points and the last two or three minutes. �I could tell by the guys body language was that they were going to forage for that one pointer. West Hull went down to our end of the field putting a play to the left hand side on the fourth tackle and they were caught in the corner then. The last set of six for us in the game, we went straight up the field kept possession in the centre of the field and James (Dallimore) slotted over the one pointer. �West Hull took the short kick off which they regathered, the referee called last play of the game and they kicked it high as high as I have ever seen. I couldn�t contain my emotions, they were everywhere all over the place. One of our second rowers gathered it as it bounced onto to the ground and the whistle went. Fair play to them they contributed to a great game but I knew it was party time for this club.� FIRST ROUND BYE SECOND ROUND WIGAN ST PATRICKS 10 SIDDAL 14 THIRD ROUND SIDDAL 52 OLDHAM ST ANNES 12 FOURTH ROUND SIDDAL 28 THATTO HEATH CRUSADERS 12 QUARTER FINALS WIGAN ST CUTHBERTS 22 SHARLSTON ROVERS 16 SEMI FINALS WIGAN ST CUTHBERTS 25 WEST HULL 24
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NATIONAL CUP FINAL BUILD UP
May 22, 2009
SIDDAL captain Nick Smith believes the National Conference champions will be better for the break ahead of tomorrow's National Cup decider against Wigan St Judes at Fylde RUFC (3.30). The Chevinedge side head over the Pennines in search of a brilliant double on the back of a fortnight's break since their triumph over East Hull at Post Office Road. But Smith reckons the Lee Greenwood-coached outfit will be better for the rest against the underdogs from the North West Counties Premier Division. "The final was a tough game and we needed time to get over that," said Smith. "We had a steady week after that and we've stepped it up a bit this week, done a bit of video work and made sure we've got the preparation right. "Everyone is expecting us to win tomorrow but there is no way we are going to take them lightly just because they are coming out of a regional league. "The Conference isn't the be all and end all, there are some really good players outside that who, for whatever reason, prefer to play for their local sides. "They've beaten some really good sides to get there and we will need to play well to win." Siddal are expected to make late calls on the fitness of hooker Craig Sanderson and stand off Shaun Garrod, who missed the Conference decider with ankle and hamstring injuries respectively. "They've both been having treatment, but it's a tough decision for Lee whether he picks them or not," said Smith. "You want your strongest side, but you also need to reward the lads who did the job in the Grand Final. "And you can't risk someone breaking down 20 minutes into a final. "I'm glad it's not my decision."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NATIONAL CUP FINAL BUILD UP
May 22, 2009
Tomorrow Saturday 23rd May will see the 36th BARLA National Cup Final sponsored for the second year by Ace Insurance (Europe) at Fylde RUC, The Woodlands, Lytham St Annes kick off 3.30pm. At the end of the game there will see a new name on the prestigious trophy when in a real �David & Goliath� clash Wigan St Cuthberts of the Mark Norris Construction Limited North West Counties League Premier Division play Siddal of the National Conference League Premier Division. Favourites Siddal are going for a Cup and League double after defeating East Hull 15-8 in the National Conference League Grand Final to be crowned champions. Underdogs Wigan St Cuthberts finished in fourth in their league, the highest position in the clubs history. The coaches of both sides are in their first seasons in charge of their respective clubs and gave their thoughts on the final countdown to tomorrows final. Lee Greenwood Head Coach of Siddal �I know that we will be going into this game as massive favourites and we have to be and no disrespect to Wigan St Cuthberts just looking at the respective league positions. To be honest I wish it was the other way, we went into the Grand final against East Hull as underdogs because of what they had done to us in that play off defeat at our place when they beat us. �It�s always easier for us to get up for it and get stuck into them whereas as massive favourites you can�t really win in games like that. It�s a final you have just got to do your best and it doesn�t matter what score it is because everyone expects a big score as well. �But it�s not going to be like that St Cuthberts are going to be well up for it and I have seen a couple of videos of them. They are a very good side and we will give the respect that we give every side we play and which they deserve and like us they have battled hard to reach this final �A few people missed that Grand Final so I am going to have to make some difficult choices but that�s what a head coach has to do. I will do what I have to do because I want the club to win the biggest cup in the amateur game. �We have a decent following and we had more than a thousand at the Grand Final win and we are expecting that support at Fylde. We are a well supported club and there is a lot of history in the club and a lot of Halifax people follow us as well and I�m sure that they will make the trip over.� �I would love to win the BARLA National Cup, not many teams have ever won it never mind reached the final. Everyone says that playing in your own league is the best but in this we are up against all the teams in the country and it�s the biggest amateur cup competition in the world.� Martin McLoughlin Joint Head Coach of Wigan St Cuthberts �We go into the game as underdogs and I�m fine with it because like I say as we have been underdogs in round in reaching the final. No-one expects us to win no-one apart from us no-one has expected us to win a single round. There is no pressure on us the pressure is all on Siddal. �They are a good team and we watched them a few weeks ago at St Pats and they were very, very good. They have won there league with a couple of games to spare before their play offs and they have won their Grand Final to become champions. We know they are a very good team but they are expected to win and we are not. I don�t feel there is any pressure on us at all and we are going to go out there to win it �It would be fantastic to win the BARLA National Cup, I have been lucky I have won it as a player for Wigan St Patricks in 1988 and was named as man of the match. I was fortunate last year to win it with the Wigan St Patricks under 16�s team and this would be up there with that. �It�s a case of winning it now that we are there we just don�t want to go and make the numbers up it would be up there with them. It�s the biggest competition in the country in the game for the amateurs and I�m lucky enough to have won it and its fantastic to win it. I hope we can do it and the players can feel like I did when I won it.� Tim Sharkey Joint Head Coach of Wigan St Cuthberts �I think we are underdogs and I am happy with that, Martin does as well all the pressure is on those guys. We are going down to the Fylde ground on Wednesday evening and we have arranged with Fylde to go down there. We are training on their ground and getting the lads accustomed to the facilities, the pitch and the large in-goal area which we will change our game plan to suit that. �We are not going to sit here and say it�s a party day guys lets enjoy it we have got to the final, we have now put an agenda through. For the last three weeks the guys have been training four nights a week ultimately we are going out Wednesday night to put our specifics on and we want to win this cup having got so far although we were not expected to. �I hope that Siddal give us the Skirlaugh treatment because we are certainly going down there to win and again Martin played in the BARLA National Cup Final for Wigan St Patricks in 1988 and he got the man of the match so he knows all about playing in big games. The BARLA Cup Finals are something to savour hopefully its not over inspiring for these guys as the only finals the club has ever got to in the past is the Lancashire Cup and the Ken Gee Cup which they try to win every year they enter it. � As a kid I won it but I was to young to play in the final in 1988, I was just in the Under 19�s then, the year previous I had won it in the Under 19�s, a fantastic occasion. As a player I never got to the final, we got to a lot of semi finals after that but failed at that last hurdle so I know how hard it is to beat it to get to that final. �We had a fantastic side for years at St Pats won everything available but could never snatch that BARLA National Cup Final so I know that these guys they realise now. We have bullied it into them how important it is and I think it�s also good for the community of Norley Hall and for Wigan as a whole. �The community here is not the most affluent of areas so there are coach loads of supporters giving their time and money to come and support us at Fylde and in our match programme we dedicated this final to the supporters. They have been fantastic, it will mean a lot to us it would it is a great achievement. To the people who go down to watch us week in week out they are really looking forward to it if we win it will be fantastic.�
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Bring it on !!!
May 21, 2009
Stop Press !! Siddal have booked a third supporters coach. Last chance to book your seat by calling the club on 01422 367376.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NATIONAL CUP FINAL BUILD UP
May 21, 2009
In the Quarter Finals of the Ace Insurance (Europe) BARLA National Cup Siddal were drawn away to National Conference League Division 1 side Saddleworth Rangers which they won 16-2 to reach the last four of the cup. Head Coach Lee greenwood said, �We got our fourth National Conference League in the cup run and had a trip to Saddleworth Rangers and some reason best known to others we had an evening trip over the Pennines. We went into the game with a ten day break between games which seemed strange to me as our own league fixtures were getting congested during our cup run �Looking back I suppose it was a good thing in some respects as we came into this tie on the back of three defeats including unluckily being knocked out of the Challenge Cup at home to Swinton Lions in front of a crowd of over a thousand. We knew that Saddleworth were in the middle of a good run and would be up for this game as they were the only Oldham side left in the competition. �There was a very good crowd there that night the majority rooting for Saddleworth and they put us under a lot of pressure but our defence was magnificent on the night as we kept our tyrline intact and restricted them to a penalty goal. The attack did what they had to do and was clinical and we came out on top in that one. The win set us off on another great run to the end of the season in the league and the BARLA National Cup.� Siddal Route to the Final FIRST ROUND BYE SECOND ROUND Wigan St Patricks 10, Siddal 14 THIRD ROUND Siddal 52, Oldham St Annes 12 FOURTH ROUND Siddal 28, Thatto Heath Crusaders 12 QUARTER FINALS Saddleworth Rangers 2, Siddal 16 After the shock win over Skirlaugh the draw for the Quarter Finals of the Ace Insurance (Europe) BARLA National Cup was made at the Humbersiders club house and the Wigan St Cuthberts chairman was involved in the �live� draw. He pulled out a home tie for his club against Sharlston Rovers of the Pennine Premier Division who were battling for the Championship which they eventually won on the last game of the season. Wigan St Cuthberts won 22-16 and were now eight minutes away from their first ever BARLA National Cup Final. Joint Head Coach Tim Sharkey gave his thoughts on that victory, �Our chairman got the biggest cheer of the day in the Skirlaugh club house when first of all he pulled us out of the hat for a home tie and we were more than pleased to draw Sharlston Rovers �We knew that we had a big job on our hands when got Sharlston Rovers but you are always going to be happy with a quarter final home draw and we couldn�t have asked for anymore. We got a big side the Yorkshire Cup winners and they were challenging for their league championship and with a big reputation. They had played Oldham in the Challenge Cup a couple of weeks and run them pretty close. �So again we put some specifics together and we changed our game plan a little bit but on the day we had a big partisan crowd at St Cuthberts ground and we held on for a superb victory as Sharston battled in vain to take the game into extra time. We again did a superb job in this competition and there was a great buzz in the club house after the game.� Wigan St Cuthberts Route to the Final FIRST ROUND Bye SECOND ROUND Wigan St Cuthberts 34, Distington 12 THIRD ROUND Hunslet Old Boys 15, Wigan St Cuthberts 22 FOURTH ROUND Skirlaugh 12, Wigan St Cuthberts 18 QUARTER FINALS Wigan St Cuthberts 22, Sharlston Rovers 16
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

CUP FINAL TRANSPORT & VENUE - Fylde RUFC
May 20, 2009
Transport to next week's has been arranged. Buses will leave the clubhouse at 12.30pm and seats priced �10.00 can be reserved by contacting the club on 01422 367376 or calling into the club and enquiring behind the bar Here is a little information about the venue for next week's massive game: Club Address: Woodlands Memorial Ground, Blackpool Road Ansdell Lytham St. Annes Lancashire FY8 4EL Telephone: 01253 734733 (Main) E-mail: info@fylderugby.co.uk Driving directions to Blackpool Rd from Siddal ARLFC. About 1 hour 22 mins. 1. Head northwest on Exley Ln toward Chevinedge Crescent 230 ft 2. Continue on Exley Bank Top 371 ft 3. Slight right at Backhold Ln 0.4 mi 4. Sharp left at Jubilee Rd 0.3 mi 5. Turn left at A629/Huddersfield Rd Continue to follow A629 3.3 mi 6. At A643, take the 3rd exit onto A629/Blackley New Rd heading to M62 0.5 mi 7. Merge onto M62 via the ramp to Manchester/Oldham 20.7 mi 8. Continue on M60 3.9 mi 9. Slight left at M61 (signs for Wigan/M6 North/Bolton/Preston/M61) 21.8 mi 10. Merge onto M6 5.7 mi 11. At junction 32, exit onto M55 toward Blackpool/Fleetwood/Preston/A6/Garstang 11.9 mi 12. At junction 4, take the A583 exit 0.3 mi 13. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto A583/Preston New Rd 0.3 mi 14. At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Lytham Saint Annes Way Go through 1 roundabout 0.7 mi 15. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Wild Ln 0.8 mi 16. Continue on N Houses Ln 1.4 mi 17. Turn left at B5261/Heyhouses Ln Continue to follow B5261 0.1 mi 18. Turn right at B5261/Blackpool Rd Destination will be on the left.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NATIONAL CUP FINAL BUILD UP
May 20, 2009
In the 4th Round of the Ace Insurance (Europe) BARLA National Cup Siddal were drawn at home to National Conference League Premier Division side Thatto Heath Crusaders and they won 28-12 to reach the Quarter Finals. Head Coach Lee Greenwood spoke about that win, �We were getting a back log of games due to the bad winter weather and as well as competing in this Cup we were also playing in the Challenge Cup and the home league game against them was one that suffered as a result of that. We had already beaten the Crusaders in this years Challenge Cup as well and it was decided to use this 4th Round cup tie as a double header that was ideal. Thankfully we won the game to progress in the cup and collect another two league points. �It did put extra pressure and an incentive on us to win the game but it was idea which was agreeable to all parties knowing what we had coming up later on in the season. I had done the maths and knew how many games we had left and how many weeks were left in the season. Our run in was ridiculous as it was and with an extra game added in it would have been more ridiculous. �I knew what was coming and to be honest if we would have lost it we would have been out of the national cup but still been in a strong league position. Thatto Heath Crusaders didn�t make it easy for us but the players did what they had to do and came away with the spoils. Thankfully we won the game to progress in the cup and collect another two league points." FIRST ROUND BYE SECOND ROUND WIGAN ST PATRICKS 10 SIDDAL 14 THIRD ROUND SIDDAL 52 OLDHAM ST ANNES 12 FOURTH ROUND SIDDAL 28 THATTO HEATH CRUSADERS 12 Wigand St Cuthbert�s travelled to Skirlaugh of the National Conference League Premier Division who was challenging for the top spot in that division and made everybody in the amateur game sit up and take notice of them with the shock of the round as they defeated them 18-12 and were now two games away from the final. Joint Head Coach Tim Sharkey gave his thoughts on that victory, �We went down there hoping to keep the score down if I�m being really honest and frank. We met with their coach Colin Brown who I used to play against and had a good chat. He was pretty much on the back foot and a bit laid back thinking �have a good day and enjoy yourselves lads�. That�s how I saw his body language and I went into the dressing rooms and said �Listen lads I think these guys think it�s going to be a rollover lets go out there and show them. �I think they thought we were here just for the coach ride, it was a little bit of we�ve not got our first team half backs out we�re trying two kids out, that made me more aware of what they were going to try and do. Skirlaugh are a good side play with a good set of forwards and a good hooker. The pre match speech was easy for us although I may have been wrong I thought these people have given us no respect. Our motivation came from we�ve come here, we�re fully prepared, we�ve nothing to lose, it�s a win, win, win situation for us guys. We�re expected to get beat lets change the form book and we did big style. �Martin and I decided if their half backs were not up to scratch we would play on the back of that. We had two guys out on the day but we put Skirlaugh on the back foot and we scored a couple of important tries in a great win which we deserved from the opening minute of the game. The win made a lot of people sit up and say that there are more than one or two teams in Wigan� FIRST ROUND BYE SECOND ROUND WIGAN ST CUTHBERTS 34 DISTINGTON 12 THIRD ROUND HUNSLET OLD BOYS 15 WIGAN ST CUTHBERTS 22 FOURTH ROUND SKIRLAUGH 12 WIGAN ST CUTHBERTS 18
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NATIONAL CUP FINAL BUILD UP
May 20, 2009
WIGAN St Cuthberts coach Tim Sharkey reckons the National Cup giantkillers have already exceeded all expectations by making it to Saturday's showpiece decider against double-chasing Siddal at Fylde. But now the minnows from the North West Counties Premier Division are in the final, they intend to make the most of the chance. "We're not going just to make up the numbers," warned Sharkey, one half of a former Wigan St Patricks coaching duo - 51-year-old Martin McLoughlin, man of the match in St Pats' 1988 final win, is the other man in the dugout - who have transformed St Cuthberts fortunes since heading across town last autumn. "We will be underdogs on Saturday and we have been underdogs in virtually every round, but it is a tag that we are comfortable with. "It would be nice to go out and finish the job now, but whatever happens we are probably in a win/win situation because no one expects anything of us. "To be fair, I don't think the lads really realise what they have done. "I played for 17 years at St Pats, and captained them for seven of those, and I know how hard it is to get to this stage. "I played in plenty of losing semi finals, but I never made it to the final. "It's a massive achievement." St Cuthberts' fairytale success has come on the back of some expansive attacking play, and Sharkey believes that remains their best chance of success against Lee Greenwood's National Conference champions. The 41 year old marked out star stand off Jamie Dallimore - who will go head to head with fellow BARLA tourist Lee Gudor on Saturday - and 19 year old centres Earl Hurst and Adam Hunt, who played Academy rugby for Wigan and Widnes respectively, as the players to watch. "Siddal play a very controlled brand of rugby, whereas we tend to be a bit more flamboyant," said Sharkey, who was taking his players to Fylde tonight for an opposed training session with Championship side Blackpool Panthers. "We might have an edge on the fringes and that is the approach that has worked well for us all season." St Cuthberts have certainly taken a tough route to the final, beating Conference big guns Skirlaugh and West Hull as well as Pennine League winners Sharlston. "I think the Skirlaugh game was the catalyst for us," said Sharkey, who expects eight buses packed with travelling support to make the short journey up the motorway this weekend. "They took us lightly and weren't prepared for what we threw at them. "Having got to this stage, and seeing the teams we have beaten on the way, I cannot think that Siddal will be stupid enough to have any complacency in their dressing room."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NATIONAL CUP FINAL BUILD UP
May 19, 2009
In the 3rd Round of the Ace Insurance (Europe) BARLA National Cup Siddal were drawn at home to National Conference League Division 1 side Oldham St Annes and defeated those 52-12 to reach the last 16. Head Coach Lee Greenwood spoke about that victory �Although Oldham St Anne�s had been struggling again in the bottom half of Division 1 of the National Conference League trying to avoid relegation we couldn�t underestimate them after the shock of the previous round. "On the final Saturday before Christmas St Anne�s had welcomed Leigh Miners Rangers from our division. The Miners had been battling all season with us for top spot but St Anne�s turned them over 25-18. �So we knew it was going to be a tough challenge although we had home advantage and I set out the game plan accordingly. The side which was on this good run carried on our excellent form and every pass went to hand and we scored some good tries. The defence worked really hard and did its job restricting St Anne�s to just twelve points�. FIRST ROUND BYE SECOND ROUND WIGAN ST PATRICKS 10 SIDDAL 14 THIRD ROUND SIDDAL 52 OLDHAM ST ANNES 12 Wigand St Cuthbert�s travelled to Huns let Old Boys of the CMS Yorkshire League Premier Division in the 3rd Round of the Ace Insurance (Europe) BARLA National Cup and they won 22-15 and they were 240 minutes from the final. Joint Head Coach Martin McLaughlin talked about the win, �Its never easy going over to Yorkshire and playing any side and it was a really tough game at Huns let Old Boys who were at the top of their division in a three club battle for the championship. They were a big physical team and given our league position at the time we went their as underdogs once again. �It was a big effort by all of the team and we toughed it out and came away with a hard fought victory. It was a close game and the best team usually wins and on the day that we played them we were the better team. We deserved it on the day to be honest.� FIRST ROUND BYE SECOND ROUND WIGAN ST CUTHBERTS 34 DISTINGTON 12 THIRD ROUND HUNSLET OLD BOYS 15 WIGAN ST CUTHBERTS 22
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NATIONAL CUP FINAL BUILD UP
May 18, 2009
The build up begins today for the 36th BARLA National Cup Final when Wigan St Cuthberts of the Mark Norris Construction Limited North West Counties League Premier Division take on Siddal of the National Conference League Premier Division. The final is being played at Fylde RUC, The Woodlands, Fylde on Saturday 23rd May kick off 3.30pm. We have interviewed Siddal Head Coach Lee Greenwood and Wigan St Cuthberts Joint Head Coaches Martin McLoughlin and Tim Sharkey to see how they reached the final starting with the two opening rounds of the competition. We start with the Siddal Head Coach Lee Greenwood. 28yrs old former Halifax and now Oldham Roughyeds player is in his first season as Head Coach of Siddal. That was after having been Joint Head Coach with Luke Robinson the previous two seasons. In his debut season he has seen his Siddal side finish with the Minor Premiership as leaders of the National Conference League Premier Division. Two weeks ago they were crowned champions of that league after their 15-8 Grand Final win at the Chris Moyles Stadium, Featherstone Rovers RLFC. SIDDAL - ROUND TWO WIGAN ST PATRICKS .. 10 SIDDAL .. 14 After a bye in the 1st Round they were drawn away in one of the ties of the round at fellow National Conference League Premiers Wigan St Patricks and came away with a 14-10 victory. �It was a tough game in pretty horrible conditions and at the time St Patricks weren�t doing well in the Conference Premiership and after that game they went on a really good run. They played really well sticking in their with us but I told all the lads before the game that it�s at places like this that you have to come to if you want to win the BARLA National Cup. It was a really hard game and I said that this could be your hardest game of the whole cup run and it might prove to be that yet. �You can never set out to win the BARLA National Cup, it�s that hard and it�s that long of a season you can�t really say it�s like the Challenge Cup. You can�t say that you are definitely going through into the third round in Cup games. You just do your best and see what opposition is put in front of you." Martin McLoughlin and Tim Sharkey are the Joint Head Coaches of giant killers Wigan St Cuthberts and in there first season in charge at the club. Both coaches know each other from their playing days at Wigan St Patricks and Martin has previous coaching experience as assistant coach at the club and coaching that clubs youth sections. Martin also has the experience of having played in the 1988 BARLA National Cup Final which Wigan St Patricks won and saw him named as the Tom Keaveney Man of the Match. But that previous success will mean nothing to the two coaches who have taken St Cuthberts to their highest position in the history of club in the Mark Norris Construction Limited North West Counties League Premier Division with a fourth place finish. ST CUTHBERTS - ROUND TWO WIGAN ST CUTHBERTS .. 34 DISTINGTON .. 12 They also began with a bye in the 1st Round but were drawn at home to Cumbrian side Distington and defeated them 34-12. Martin McLoughlin gives his thoughts on that victory �To be honest and its easier to say it now it was the start of the cup run, the boys played pretty well that day and the game was played in bad conditions for both sides, But Distington were a really good side and also played well but as the rounds have gone on the confidence has got better to. �The lads played well on the day in attack and defence and it was a sound start and a well deserved success. Initially it was a distraction because we wanted then to do better in the league but with the win we gained them confidence.�
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Cup Final Merchandise
May 15, 2009
Last chance to grab your National Cup Final merchandise for next weekend's big game at Fylde RUFC. Kooga Tech T Shirts with Siddal "100 Years" logo for sale in clubhouse priced �13.00. Most sizes available. One only Vortex Training Jacket priced �17.50 in size XL. Navy Blue Hoodies with "100 Years" logo priced �13.00. Orders need to be placed by Tuesday 19th May latest. Call Simon Greenwood on 07710098153.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NATIONAL CUP FINAL - SIDDAL v WIGAN ST.CUTHBERTS
May 14, 2009
SIDDAL captain Nick Smith has warned against an end-of-season mindset ahead of the Conference champions' National Cup final appearance later this month. The Chevinedge side completed part two of what would be a remarkable treble when they added Saturday's 15-8 Grand Final victory over East Hull to their league leaders' title. Smith confirmed the celebrations that followed were predictably extensive, but insisted the club must remain focused on their clash with North West Counties underdogs Wigan St Cuthberts at Fylde on May 23. "We celebrated big, but we've got a fortnight to recover and we're training this week as normal," said Smith. "There's a danger we could switch off now, but I'm sure the coaches will knock that out of us over the next few days. "We are going to be massive favourites for the National Cup now and becoming complacent because of that is probably the biggest danger. "We have to remember we're only two thirds of the way to where we wanted to be." Coach Lee Greenwood, the Oldham wingman, is likely to face some tough selection decisions ahead of his side's second final appearance. Stand off Shaun Garrod and prop Gary Lewis, who both missed out at Post Office Road through injury, look likely to be fit, while hooker Craig Sanderson, who has ankle ligament damage, is still rated an outside chance. "It's difficult, because they've played well all year but then again you need to reward the players who did so well on Saturday," said Smith. "I suppose those are the decisions coaches like to have."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Champey-O-Knees !!!
May 11, 2009
Get in there !! National Conference Grand Final SIDDAL are National Conference champions again after beating East Hull 15-8 in a compelling Grand Final at Post Office Road. A supreme defensive display cemented success for Lee Greenwood's side, who still have the National Cup final to look forward to at the end of the month, against last season's double winners. The Chevinedge side, comprehensively beaten by Easts in play off action a fortnight ago, took a seventh-minute lead through Luke Simeunovich's try, with Brad Attwood adding a conversion and a penalty. That was how it stayed until half time. Easts scored through centre Tommy Brett within five minutes of the second half restart to put the game back in the balance at 8-4. But Siddal remained rock solid under pressure, and stretched their lead to 14-4 when winger Steve Hope touched down a Lee Gudor kick. Attwood - who was on top form all afternoon - converting from close to touch. Mark Blanchard pulled a score back for Easts, but with Scott Yeaman missing another conversion the scene was set for Gudor's drop goal nine minutes from time to seal a deserved victory. Congratulations to our 1st team on winning the NCL Grand Final for a record breaking third time. Thanks for all your support, see the 'NCL Grand Final' thread to see how much your support counted on the day. See the 'National Cup Final' thread to see a challenge that's been thrown down. All of a sudden Wigan St Cuthberts have a few fans !!!
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Ambler Caption Competition !!
May 10, 2009
George wasn't feeling too well last night as we all celebrated the Grand Final victory. Well, here's the reason why. Entries (no pun intended!)so far include: "Has he blown yet?" "Well there's nothing like an East Hull Spit Roast" "Hull crack addict" "Do you want this hard or easy?" "Can I help you with your play the balls?" "Im in an uncompromising position but hey Im gunna win the grand final!" "Go on then if it means winning I'll take one in for the team!"
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

National Cup Final Warning
May 10, 2009
Looks like a challenge has been thrown down: "Congratulations to all at Siddal from players to all involved. Fully deserved winners irrespective of today. Top of the league over the season so deserved champions. Well done. Just a comment about the vocal support, I hope they are good because as a Wiganer I will tell you (and by the way not my club) St Cuthberts have as we speak got 11 coaches booked for the National Cup final and believe you me they will meet their match without doubt. Best of luck to both teams and look forward to a very noisy and entertaining day!" "Everything to be expected from our best two teams. Superb arm wrestle. Do not underestimate the contribution off the bench by the coaches. Siddal weathered the storm, grafted when it counted but at the end of the day East Hull could have had it if they could have better marshalled their efforts. Bit daft towards the end but tensions high. People speak against the play off's, but I believe the best way to end it, even now. Roll on next year! Best wishes for Siddal at Blackpool. They should win easily as they are 40 points better than their opponents- but only on paper. I played for the green hoops in '58, my first RL experience, it has never changed. Their passion and will to win is unbelievable. When you look at the core of Wigan RL professionals they are the equals of Pats, Judes and Bridge. Gareth Hock was the latest from their production line. Two Pat's stalwarts have helped coaching this year. A David and Goliath event maybe, but if Siddal are not up to the mark then they will not take the double"
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

NCL Grand Final
May 10, 2009
Here's a selection of views on yesterday's game posted on the RL Fans Forum: "Easts disallowed try midway through the second half did look to be good and it was 3 metres in front of me, too close to photograph in fact. However for me what won it on the day was Siddals very vocal support and Hull's apparent lack of support. Poor old Phil Hasty, he was almost in tears most of the game the grief the Siddal fans gave him" "And I was sat on the steps behind you, what about the grief Wymes got: "your a rat and you know you are, your a rat and you know you are" Siddal's support was very vocal and swayed the ref a couple of times in decisions" "Wymes got as much as Hasty I suppose and in the end it affected his game. A few cheap shots were thrown in the last 5-10 minutes" (EDITOR'S COMMENT: "A few cheap shots ..." - the 'roids' man playing in number 12 was a disgrace with Weymes not far behind him. Very poor losers, but losers all the same) "I thought Siddal were worthy winners on the day. East Hull seemed a bit flat for much of the first half but came out very determined for second half. Siddal's Luke Garnett was impressive when on the field for his two spells at prop with Luke Simeunovich playing well throughout. Easts Gary Weymes got them moving forward when he came back on after looking flat in his first spell" "I spoke to couple of East Hull players after the game and they both said Siddal were the best team on the day - say no more....."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Grand Final Time !
May 9, 2009
SIDDAL skipper Nick Smith is confident the Chevinedge side can rip up the form book and beat East Hull in tomorrow's National Conference Grand Final. Lee Greenwood's side go head to head with Easts at Post Office Road (2.30) looking to avenge a 24-4 home loss in the play offs just a fortnight ago. Easts, bossed by former Hull KR half back Phil Hasty, dominated that game, making them warm favourites for tomorrow's decider. "They gave us a bit of a spanking that day, and probably bullied us a bit" said Smith. "They did a good job and they'll be confident of doing it again. "They put a lot of pressure on our key players, Lee Gudor especially, and stopped us getting any momentum in the middle of the field. "It was the worst we have played for a while and they took full advantage of that. "But it wasn't a disaster for us, we had a bad day and we've got a chance to put it right tomorrow. "The champions are the team that wins the Grand Final and that's what we're aiming for." Siddal's preparation has been disrupted by injury, with key playmaker Shaun Garrod - who defied a hamstring injury to play in last weekend's final eliminator win over Oulton - almost certainly ruled out. Gareth Jones, the former Ovenden player, is the favourite for the number six shirt. Hooker Craig Sanderson will also be absent with ankle ligament damage, an injury that also threatens to sideline him for the National Cup final at the end of the month. "It's a blow for Craig because he's made that spot his own this season," said Smith, who expected Sean McCormack and John Birt to share the dummy half duties. There will be a 69 seater bus going over for spectators, setting off from the clubhouse at 12.30pm. All seats are priced at �5.00. Please call in at the club or ring to reserve your seat(s). Let's get as much support over to Featherstone as we can to cheer the boys on as they strive to join the 'A' and 'B' teams in winning some silverware in our Centenary Season.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

'A' Dazzler of a Final !!
May 8, 2009
Siddal A 22 - Keighley Albion 19 (Fee Cup final) Two Siddal legends rolled the clock back and combined to help Siddal 'A' win the Joseph Fee Memorial Cup Final in a nailbiting contest. Player coach Daz Phillips brought the curtain down on a 20 year Open Age career at Chevinedge with a man of the match performance. Mick Shaw may not be as young, or as quick, as he used to be, but the former Leeds and Halifax number nine, whose trademark bursts from behind the play the ball used to terrify the tightest defences in the professional game, is still a potent attacking force. And it was Shaw's speed and intelligence that allowed Siddal's second string to twice come from behind in a frantic finale to win a compelling Fee Cup final at Woodhead on Saturday afternoon. The Chevinedge side had been second best for significant periods of the game as Albion, bossed by stand off Bobby Brown, looked to avoid a fourth consecutive loss in the Halifax League's annual showpiece. The Keighley side were leading 18-16 with seven minutes remaining when Shaw, who started the game at loose forward but appeared with increasingly effectiveness at acting half back late in the game, caught the markers napping at a play the ball and won the penalty, allowing centre Shaun Blackburn to level the scores with the boot. An error from back rower Iain Crawshaw promptly handed Albion the initiative again, Brown popping over a drop goal at the other end to give his team a 19-18 advantage. But as the clock ticked down towards defeat, Shaw did it again: darting out, sucking in a defender and supplying Blackburn with the match-winning pass. It was a thrilling end to a contest that lacked its usual atmosphere due to the clash with Siddal's other - and arguably more important - game being played across town at Chevinedge. Siddal had started brilliantly, full back Richard Smith, the former Calder Valley player, touching down in the left corner after a long Chris Brooke pass and Blackburn adding the conversion. And when player-coach Darren Phillips added a second score on 11 minutes, profiting from a hideous mix up in the Albion defence, Blackburn kicking the goal, it seemed victory would be a formality. But Albion responded within four minutes through back rower Chris Dooling, and by half time had added further scores from Brown and half back Andy Bowness to lead 16-12. Both sides were reduced to 12 men shortly before the interval, Crawshaw and Albion centre Tony Kennedy seeing yellow after a prolonged melee on Siddal's 20 metre line. Bowness's penalty stretched Albion's lead to 18-12 early in the second period, before Pete Howard's unconverted try hauled Siddal back within two points with 28 minutes remaining. Then Shaw made his presence felt. Match highlights - http://www.vimeo.com/4452787
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Siddal 22 Oulton 18
May 3, 2009
SIDDAL captain Nick Smith has admitted nothing less than an end of season trophy double will satisfy the Chevinedge side. Siddal go into tomorrow's National Conference final eliminator against Oulton Raiders on the back of a 24-4 home loss to reigning Champions East Hull, who lie in wait in next Saturday's Grand Final at Featherstone. And while Siddal have a National Cup final against Wigan St Cuthberts to look forward to later this month, Smith insists anything other than victory tomorrow is unthinkable. "It would be a massive disappointment not to get to the final and win it," said Smith. "If we lost tomorrow, we would be the first side to top the table and not make the final. That's a record we don't want against our name. "We set ourselves the target of winning the double a few months ago now and that's still the aim." Siddal will start as favourites tomorrow against an Oulton side who only sneaked into the top six on the final day of the regular season. But Smith knows the home side will have to improve on last weekend's ineffective effort. "The defeat was pretty comprehensive last week: they came with a plan and executed it pretty well," said Smith. "It was as poorly as we have played for a while and we know we need to improve. "Oulton are a good attacking side who are coming off two away wins so they have plenty of momentum behind them. We know we need to perform if we want to come away with a win." Smith rates playmaker Shaun Garrod, a significant absentee over the last couple of weeks with a hamstring problem, as "50/50" to make the cut.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL A HALIFAX CUP FINAL 2/5/09 2:30pm
May 1, 2009
Siddal A take on Keighley Albion in the final of the Halifax Cup. Game is at Old Brodleians RUFC at 2:30pm. IRELAND international Liam Finn - one half of Siddal's second-string coaching team - has credited veteran full back Darren Phillips with masterminding their charge to tomorrow's Fee Cup decider against Keighley Albion. Siddal will run out at Old Brodleians' Woodhead ground (2.30) at the same time as the club's top side face Oulton in the National Conference play offs looking to make the most of their opportunity after disposing of three-time winners Halifax Irish in the last four. And Finn, the Dewsbury Rams playmaker, has insisted it is player-coach Phillips who should take the glory if they do lift the trophy. "Ninety per cent of it is down to Daz," said Finn. "Most of the time I can't make training because of my commitments with Dewsbury, so it's Daz and Gareth Walters who have done most of the work. "We've had a really good year, which has been satisfying, and it would be a shame not to win something now." Siddal have every chance, with a side packed with former professionals - including livewire hooker Mick Shaw - and young talents like prop Jack Holmes and hooker Sean McCormack. "It's a good mix, with some older heads and a few lads who have come through the juniors and are just maturing as open age players," said Finn. "Hopefully that will pay off for us tomorrow. "It's just a shame we're playing at the same time as the first team because it's probably going to detract a little bit from both games. "It could turn out to be a good day for the club though." The match promises to be a close affair with the Premier meetings both going the way of the Halifax side but only by two and five points. ROUTES TO FINAL - first round: Albion bye, Ovenden A 4 Siddal 48. Quarter Finals. Elland 6 Siddal A 30, Illingworth 10 Keighley Albion 26. Semi-final: Keighley Albion 24, Brighouse 9, Halifax Irish 18 Siddal A 23.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 4 EAST HULL 24
April 25, 2009
Siddal take on East Hull at Chevinedge this Saturday, kick off 2.30pm, to earn the right to go straight into the NCL Grand Final.SIDDAL will be out to book their National Conference Grand Final spot at the first attempt when they host East Hull at Chevinedge tomorrow. Lee Greenwood's table toppers host the reigning Champions in play off action, with the winners going straight through to the decider at Featherstone Rovers' Post Office Road ground on May 9. "We've worked hard all year to make sure we finished top and we want to make the most of it now," said Siddal captain Nick Smith. "We want to go straight through and make sure we get another weekend off. "It's going to be a tough, close game though. "It's their trophy at the moment and they are going to want to try and keep it." The sides have one win each in league action this season, with the results going with home form. And Smith is confident that a revitalised Siddal side, who have had a 10 day break since booking their National Cup final spot, will be ready to put on a repeat performance. "There's always a lot of talk about whether a weekend off is good or bad for teams," said Smith. "But after the schedule we had at the end of the year, I think it can only benefit us. "We had a light week in training last week and then we've stepped it up over the last few days. "I'm sure we'll be ready." Greenwood has a virtually full strength squad to select from, with the only major doubt surrounding stand off Shaun Garrod, who has been nursing a hamstring problem for several weeks. "Hopefully, Shaun will come through okay," said Smith.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 24 WIGAN ST JUDES 37
April 16, 2009
See reports. PREVIEW SIDDAL captain Nick Smith has underlined the importance of maintaining their winning momentum ahead of tonight's final National Conference Premier Division fixture at Wigan St Judes. Tonight's fixture is irrelevant for the Chevinedge outfit in material terms, with Lee Greenwood's side sealing top spot - and a home play off date in 10 days time - by thrashing Thornhill a week ago. But with the club just three wins away from a sensational trophy double after booking their National Cup final spot by downing Queens last weekend, Smith is not planning on surrendering the points in Lancashire this evening. "We need to keep winning, even though it's a bit of a nothing game for us," insisted Smith. "It's all about momentum at this time of year and we don't want to be going into the play offs on the back of a loss." Logic dictates that Greenwood could rest key players tonight, although even that suggestion might prove wide of the mark as players look to cement their places for the upcoming fixtures. "I think anyone who is carrying a knock will be staying at home, but I think we escaped pretty much unscathed from the Queens game," said Smith. "It's a personal thing, some will want to play, others will probably want a rest. "At the same time, we've got this weekend off and there always the danger that someone will come in and steal your spot if you don't play." Stand off Shaun Garrod is an obvious doubt after limping off against Queens with a hamstring problem. The coach will LEAVE at 5pm from the club with a pick up at Ainley Top lay-by at 5:20pm.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Blackpool Here We Come !!
April 13, 2009
Siddal have made it through to the BARLA National Cup Final in Blackpool after a pulsating semi final win over Leeds based Queens (see match reports). Siddal will meet this season's giant killers Wigan St Cuthberts of the North West Counties League who overcame West Hull in another nail biting tie last Saturday. The game will be played on Saturday 23rd May 2009 at Fylde RUFC, The Woodlands, Fylde
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

St Judes Squad Selection
April 13, 2009
Coach Lee Greenwood has selected a very strong looking squad to play Wigan St Judes on Wednesday evening. St Judes may have to win to preserve their Premier Division status but the following squad will have other ideas about that: Phillips (Dennis); Blackburn (Bill) Caley (Rick) Marsh (Jodie) Greenwood (Simon); Garrod (Graham) Gudor (Gus); Lewis (Dilwyn) McCormack (Paul) Wrigley (Wriggers) Smith (Colin)Howard (Frank) Hooson (Dave) Subs: Sutcliffe; Donkersley; Sheard; Nolan
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Win it !!!
April 13, 2009
Siddal 28 Queens 21: Only a win will do. Coach Lee Greenwood had a simple message for his players after they booked their National Cup final spot with a 28-21 win over Queens at Chevinedge on Saturday: "Let's go and win it." Late scores from hooker Craig Sanderson and loose forward Luke Simeunovich pulled the game out of the fire after Siddal trailed for long periods. Siddal will now face North West Counties outfit Wigan St Cuthberts, who beat West Hull in extra time in the other semi final, at Fylde RUFC on Saturday, May 23. "That's a massive win for this club and this team," enthused Greenwood, the former Halifax and current Oldham professional. "The lads are always getting compared to the sides that won the Conference Grand Final back to back, now perhaps they'll be a side that others get compared to. "The big thing now is that we go and win it. "What happened today won't mean much if we don't do that." Greenwood also paid tribute to the opposition, who have been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons recently after their supporters were involved in crowd trouble at a Challenge Cup match against Doncaster. Saturday's game passed off without apparent incident, despite a crowd that, by amateur standards, was huge. "We can only talk about what we've found and that is just a tough, physical team," said Greenwood.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Siddal Starlet Caught On Camera !!!
April 10, 2009
Siddal ARLFC are completing an internal investigation into reports that star winger, Gareth Blackburn, was spotted in a Halifax nightclub less than 48 hours before this weekend's massive National Cup semi final with Queens. If proven accurate, and the photographic evidence doesn't look good, the young flyer could face severe disciplinary action which could include being dropped from the squad. Coach Lee Greenwood wasn't available for comment today but is understood to be angered with the youngster's partying lifestyle and concerned that Blackburn could be headed down the same path as past Siddal legends such as the Phillips brothers, Craig Turner, Digger, Ratboy, Dougie and Denny. Coach Greenwood was believed to be trying to track down his wayward starlet earlier today for a showdown but searches in his usual haunts - Siddal Place, Exley Park, Tantalize and Siddal Cafe - had proved fruitless.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL v QUEENS - NATIONAL CUP SEMI FINAL 11/04/09 2:30pm KO
April 10, 2009
SIDDAL should have key full back Brad Attwood available for tomorrow's National Cup semi final against Queens at Chevinedge. Attwood has been out of action for several weeks with a rib problem, but is likely to be available for selection ahead of what skipper Nick Smith has labelled a "massive" clash with the controversial Leeds outfit. Queens downed Siddal twice in cup rugby last season but more recently hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons after their supporters sparked crowd trouble at a Challenge Cup game at Doncaster's Keepmoat Stadium. "We've never won it, no side from Halifax has ever won it, so to get to the final would be fantastic," said Smith, one of the few survivors of Siddal's last match at this stage, a desperate 12-8 defeat by St Helens side Thatto Heath in 2002. "It's a massive game for the club and we just need to make sure we come up with the right performance on the day. "They're a big, physical team who like to try and intimidate sides, but to be fair they can play some football too. "Last season's games might mean something to them, but we know that we have improved a lot since then. "Either way, there isn't going to be much in it." Siddal clinched top spot in the Premier Division of the National Conference with a 50-point thumping of Thornhill on Wednesday night, the latest in a string of midweek fixtures. "It was a funny feeling topping the league because I think everyone switched on to tomorrow's game pretty much straight away," said Smith. "It didn't take too much out of us and we obviously rested a few players as well. "The bottom line is that if we win four games we will have two trophies. "The finishing line is in sight now and I think everyone is going to push that bit harder from here on in to make sure we get over it."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Champey-O-Knees !!!
April 9, 2009
Congratulations to Siddal Ladies and their coaching team for gaining promotion to division 1 in their debut season. Let's hope our 1st, 2nd and 3rd teams can now follow suit and pick up some silverware in the NCL, the National Cup, the Joe Fee Cup, Pennine Division 5, the Supplementary Cup, the Joe Blackford Memorial Trophy and the Halifax Handicap Cup.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Easter Sunday Race Day
April 9, 2009
Starting at 1.0pm this year's Easter Race Day will raise funds to support Lee Gudor as he tries to raise the money he needs to tour the South Pacific with the BARLA GB side. We are looking for sponsors for each of the eight races at �50 each, and to sell the eight horses in each race for �10 each. If you can help please contact club Chairman, Paul McCormack.
Updated by siddalarlfc

SIDDAL 52 THORNHILL TROJANS 16
April 8, 2009
SIDDAL put themselves in the driving seat for the National Conference Premier Division crown after clinching top spot with a thumping 52-16 victory in Dewsbury on Wednesday night. Full back Scott Caley scored a hat trick and winger Shaun Blackburn kicked seven conversions as Lee Greenwood's side warmed up for Saturday's National Cup semi final against Queens in style. Siddal will now have a home play off tie - likely to be against last season's Champions East Hull - with the winners going straight through to the Grand Final at Featherstone next month. Siddal can seal the League Leaders spot with a win on Wednesday night. Bus will be leaving at 5pm - everyone welcome. SIDDAL head to Thornhill tonight looking to clinch top spot in the Premier Division. Lee Greenwood's side need just a point from their final two fixtures - against the rock-bottom Trojans and next Wednesday's final-day clash at Wigan St Judes - to seal home advantage in the play offs and a one-match route to next month's Grand Final.ADVERTISEMENT And captain Nick Smith has urged them to finish the job tonight so they can focus on Saturday's National Cup semi final blockbuster against controversial Leeds outfit Queens. "We want to get it done tonight, really," said Smith. "Depending on how results go elsewhere, St Judes could be playing us next week needing to win to stay in the division, which would not be ideal for us. "Tonight's a tricky one, because they have been relegated for a while and everyone will be expecting us to win easily. "But they've beaten East Hull this season so that shows that they can really turn it on when they want to. "It's up to us to go there and make light work of it if we can. "We've obviously got a massive game on Saturday and we want to be as fresh as possible for that." Siddal could rest several key players tonight - including half back Shaun Garrod - with utility player Gareth Jones and prop Jamie Wrigley the likely additions to the side. "We'll be taking a strong team," said Smith.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 34 LEIGH MINERS 8
April 4, 2009
SIDDAL will aim to keep their destiny in their own hands when they host fellow high flyers Leigh Miners Rangers in the Premier Division tomorrow. Lee Greenwood's side are currently three points clear at the top of the ladder after beating Wigan St Patricks 30-10 on Wednesday night, with Miners, East Hull and Skirlaugh trailing in their wake. Victory tomorrow would leave them needing to win next Wednesday night's clash at Thornhill to be sure of finishing in top spot, sealing home advantage in the play offs and a one-match route to next month's Grand Final. "Everything is in our hands at the moment and we want to keep it that way," said skipper Nick Smith. "If we win tomorrow and Wednesday then that should seal it. "Finishing top gives us a massive advantage with a home semi final. "But Miners will be coming over here knowing we've had a midweek game and they will probably fancy their chances as a result. "They've been at the top for a lot of the season but they're slipping back a bit now and, for me, will probably end up third or fourth now behind us and East Hull. "We just need to make sure we don't slip up." Siddal will be without Brad Attwood (ribs) and Jamie Wrigley (dead leg), although Smith doesn't anticipate any problems finding replacements. "Everyone wants to play at the moment because they know the big games are coming and the lads with the shirts will get first shot at it," he said. "No one wants to be standing on the sidelines at this time of year."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 30 WIGAN ST.PATS 10
April 1, 2009
Siddal moved 3 points clear at the top of the table with this excellent win. SIDDAL can take a massive step towards securing top spot in the Premier Division of the National Conference with a win at Wigan St Patricks tonight. The Chevinedge side are a point clear at the top of the ladder after flogging Rochdale Mayfield by 60 points at the weekend, with a game in hand on chasing pair East Hull and Leigh Miners. And with Miners on the agenda on Saturday afternoon, skipper Nick Smith is well aware of how crucial the next 160 minutes are to the Chevinedge side's title hopes. "If we win the next two we are more or less there as far as that first place goes," said Smith. "I think Easts are the biggest threat to us at the moment, but I would rather be in our position than theirs any day. "It's going to be a tough couple of matches, but if we perform we are more than capable of getting the right results. "But we weren't anything special against Mayfield, it was more a case of them being pretty average, and we will need to improve on that." Siddal will be without full back Brad Attwood, who has a rib problem, but will welcome back influential playmaker Lee Gudor and hooker Craig Sanderson. "Those two should freshen us up a bit," said Smith.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 60 ROCHDALE MAYFIELD 0
March 28, 2009
Siddal could go top of the table if they win on Saturday and Leigh Miners lose at East Hull, but captain Nick Smith is not banking on Rochdale Mayfield doing the Chevinedge side any favours when they clash in the Premier Division of the National Conference tomorrow. Mayfield are languishing at the foot of the league ladder, while Lee Greenwood's title chasers, who got back to winning ways with a National Cup quarter final success at Saddleworth on Wednesday night, will be looking to bolster their position at the head of affairs. But the two clubs have endured an occasionally uneasy relationship in recent years - Siddal forward Matthew Smith was banned for life after an incident in a cup clash at Rochdale - and the Lancastrians, Halifax coach Matt Calland's former charges, are tipped to be typically fired up. "There's been some banter between us for the last few years and they always seem to enjoy getting one over on us," said Smith. "I think they're already relegated, but that won't bother them. "It would probably salvage something from their season if they could come over here and beat us. "It will be a tough game but it's one we need to get a result in." Siddal posted a much improved performance in midweek, with Smith admitting the 16-2 scoreline didn't really reflect their dominance. "We haven't been playing badly, but we stepped it up a level and it was pretty comfortable in the end," he said. "There was never any panic but I think we'll be confident going into tomorrow's game."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL v SADDLEWORTH (a) 25/03/09 KO 7:30pm
March 26, 2009
Siddal are through to the semi finals of the National Cup after a comfortable 16 - 2 win at Saddleworth. See reports. Siddal travel to Saddleworth on Wednesday night for their National Cup Quarter Final tie, after officials moved the game to midweek for reasons unknown. The team bus will leave at 5:30pm from the club, all supporters are welcome to travel FREE of charge. SIDDAL captain Nick Smith believes tonight's National Cup quarter final at Saddleworth provides the perfect springboard for the Chevinedge side to kick start another winning streak. Lee Greenwood's side have now lost three on the bounce since their heroic Challenge Cup reverse against Swinton - their first defeat since October. But Smith reckons the prospect of tonight's sudden-death encounter - and the promise of a home tie against controversial Leeds outfit Queens in the last four - will bring the best out of the leaders of the National Conference Premier Division. "It's a big game in its own right and there is the extra incentive there knowing we have a home draw in the semis," said Smith. "We've lost a bit of momemtum since the Swinton game but we need to start another good run some time and hopefully that will be tonight. "We've had a weekend off, which I think has freshened everyone up a little bit, and we've been able to get a couple of training sessions in, which he hadn't been able to do because of the midweek fixtures. "Saddleworth are always strong at home but we need to go there and make sure we come up with a good performance." Siddal will be without prop Mark Boothroyd and hooker Craig Sanderson, and will make late checks on James Simeunovich and George Ambler. "We've got a few bumps and bruises and it's going to be a case of seeing who is fit to play tonight," said Smith. "James and George have both been struggling, but I think they will both want to play."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 18 YORK ACORN 24
March 14, 2009
Siddal finished off their 3rd game in a week with their 3rd defeat in a week. The fixture compilers have now given Siddal a 10 day break before their next game - a midweek trip to Saddleworth Rangers in the National Cup Quarter Finals. PREVIEW - SIDDAL will have prop Gary Lewis and workaholic loose forward Luke Simeunovich back on deck for tomorrow's critical Premier Division trip to York Acorn. Both players missed the 10-8 midweek loss at Leigh East, Lewis through work commitments, Simeunovich, the former Fax under 21 skipper, because of illness. "They should both be back in contention, which will help freshen us up a bit," said Chevinedge team manager Steve Dyson. "The boys played really well on Wednesday night and they felt they could easily have won that game. "It's going to be tough tomorrow, but they know they have enough fight in them to bounce back tomorrow. "They're a good side, and everything comes off Darren Callaghan, the former York player, but we're confident of being very competitive." Wednesday night's reverse ate up one of Siddal's three games in hand on joint table-toppers Leigh Miners, and Dyson knows the pressure is building to open up a gap at the head of affairs. "It was an important game, but we still have two games in hand and we need to make them count," said Dyson, who confirmed Siddal will - bizarrely, considering the club's fixture backlog and this week's three games in eight days - have a 10-day break after tomorrow after their National Cup quarter final at Saddleworth was shunted back a week. "It's not something we're particularly happy about, but at least it will give us a chance to get any injuries sorted out." Siddal have a slight doubt over centre Scott Caley tomorrow, after the former Halifax player had stitches in a head wound in midweek, although he is likley to play. "We'll patch him up," said Dyson. The bus will be leaving at 11:30am from the club - all supporters welcome.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 8 LEIGH EAST 10
March 12, 2009
Siddal were just edged out by Leigh East in their first midweek trip of the season. See reports.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

FIXTURES CHANGED!
March 8, 2009
Check 1st team fixtures page for amendments.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL SO CLOSE - MATCH REACTION
March 7, 2009
HALIFAX amateurs Siddal went agonisingly close to beating Championship One professionals Swinton in their third round Challenge Cup clash at the Shay, eventually losing 10-6. The Chevinedge side were on top form throughout the opening 40, recovering brilliantly after conceding a try to centre Carl Sneyd inside the opening 10 minutes. A Shaun Blackburn penalty got them on the scoreboard before Scott Caley's 35th-minute touchdown gave them a shock lead. It took Swinton until the last 10 minutes to breach a rock-solid Siddal defensive line, prop Dave Newton scoring and Sneyd adding the conversion to put the Manchester side four points clear. But Siddal carved out a string of chances in the closing minutes, with both Caley and full back Brad Attwood going close to scoring. "The effort was fantastic," said Siddal boss Lee Greenwood. "We're disappointed we haven't won." SIDDAL coach Lee Greenwood set his sights on a trophy double after seeing his side go within a whisker of knocking professionals Swinton out of the Challenge Cup. Greenwood, the Oldham wingman, admitted to mixed emotions after a dramatic finale which saw Siddal agonisingly close to snatching victory in front of a vociferous crowd of 1,052 at the Shay. But with the club's interest in the National Conference Premier Division crown and the BARLA National Cup still very much alive, the Chevinedge boss is hoping to harness the momentum created by Saturday's performance. "The initial feeling is disappointment that we didn't win it," said Greenwood. "But if the players put that effort in, and are maybe just a bit more clinical, then the double is there for us. "It's a challenge though. It's easy to get up for games like this, but we need to be up for the games that matter for us as far as winning trophies goes. "We were never going to win the Challenge Cup but we have a chance of winning the Premier Division and the National Cup. "We've got some very hard games coming up, and a lot of them in midweek, starting at Leigh East on Wednesday night. "We'll check on all the bumps and bruises and see what kind of a side we can put together. "But I think the lads now think they can kick on for the rest of the season." Siddal, who will take home �3,000 from the Rugby Football League's central coffers under new gate regulations, led 6-4 at the break but were under the cosh for much of the second period until they threw caution to the wind as full time loomed. "We have had two very good chances in the last five minutes to come away with it," said Greenwood. "In the second half we had no field position at all until those last few minutes - we spent 35 minutes in our own half - and then the first sniff we have had we have made a couple of breaks."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

CHALLENGE CUP LATEST
March 6, 2009
SIDDAL half back Lee Gudor believes the Chevinedge side will know inside the opening 10 minutes of their Challenge Cup clash with Swinton whether they have a chance of springing a shock result. Lee Greenwood's National Conference title-chasers host the Championship One outfit at the Shay tomorrow (1.0), ending a four season absence from the third round of the game's most prestigious knockout competition. Swinton have yet to a record a win so far this year, but pushed Championship sides Leigh and Doncaster close in recent weeks and boast plenty of talent - including former Fax trio Martin Moana, Paul Southern and Danny Heaton. "We know a few of their players, but we don't know much about how they play," admitted Gudor, who is likely to partner Shaun Garrod at the scrum base. "We will just approach it like we would any other game and see how things unfold. "I think we will know in our own minds pretty early on - inside the first 10 minutes - what kind of game it is going to be. "We will just go out there and give it our best shot. It's been a long time since Siddal played at this stage of the competition and everyone is looking forward to getting out there and having a go at Swinton." Gudor, who is expected to take his place in an unchanged Siddal line up, will be looking for a strong performance to celebrate his call up for BARLA's summer tour to the South Pacific. The 25 year old, who bagged his first national call up last year, has been named in a 28-man party for the trip in June. "It's the chance of a lifetime, really, because I don't think I'd be going to those places if I wasn't going on tour," said Gudor. "We've got a meeting this weekend where we should get a few more details but it's certainly going to be a great experience."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

CHALLENGE CUP LATEST
March 5, 2009
SWINTON prop Paul Southern is wary of slipping on a Challenge Cup banana skin when the Lions take on Siddal at the Shay in the third round on Saturday afternoon. Southern, who spent 2007 and 2008 with Halifax before switching to the Lions in the autumn, is likely to join two more former Fax players - Kiwi Martin Moana and back rower Danny Heaton - in Paul Kidd's side to take on Lee Greenwood's National Conference high flyers. And he is refusing to write off Siddal's chances of springing a shock win. "They are always banana skins for the professional club and we're certainly taking it seriously," said Southern. "It's a no win situation for us: if we flog them, people will say we should have done, if we don't flog them, then it's a poor performance. "But Swinton lost at the same stage to East Leeds a few years ago and there's been a lot of talk about that: they don't want it happening twice. "Personally, I'm looking forward to it because it's a bit like going back home. "It will be nice to catch up with a few people and the pitch should suit us. "We haven't won yet: we went close against Leigh and close against Doncaster and hopefully this will be the weekend when we kick start our confidence." The Lions' fourth and most prominent former Halifax player - stand off Graham Holroyd - will not be involved against the club he represented as a junior though, with Southern conceding the veteran playmaker has been sorely missed. "Graham is still coming back from his knee injury but he's hoping to be back for the start of the league later this month," said Southern. "Marty's been playing at six, with Gary Hulse at seven, but we've missed Graham. "He's a leader who controls the game with his talk and his kicking game and the other players, while they're not bad players, don't have that same quality. "We just need to get the job done without him this weekend."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

CHALLENGE CUP LATEST
March 4, 2009
SIDDAL officials have said they are "encouraged" by early ticket sales for Saturday's third round Challenge Cup clash with Championship One professionals Swinton at the Shay. Tickets went on sale at Chevinedge on Monday, with team manager Steve Dyson reporting significant interest. Siddal have cancelled their second and third team matches this weekend to allow all the club's players to attend. "The league kindly gave us permission to have a blank weekend so that should ensure a little bit more vocal support," said Dyson, who again praised Fax officials for their role in making the match possible. "We have had a tremendous amount of help from Halifax and it's great to see the clubs working so closely together." Siddal will not face their former junior - and record-breaking Fax goal kicker - Graham Holroyd this weekend. The veteran stand off is still recovering from the knee injury that sidelined him during Ireland's World Cup campaign.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

1ST TEAM FIXTURES ANNOUNCED
March 1, 2009
Siddal face four midweek trips in their quest to finish top of the table. See 1st team fixtures or visit www.nationalconferenceleague.co.uk for full details.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL v SWINTON LIONS 7/3/09 KICK OFF 1PM
March 1, 2009
Siddal will take on professional opponents Swinton Lions at The Shay Stadium on the 7th March. Kick off will be 1pm. Plans for a double header on the Sunday with Halifax's game were rejected, but Siddal and Swinton were offered the Saturday. Siddal agreed to this option to keep the game in Halifax, hopefully securing more support for ourselves. If we hadn't have taken this option, the likelihood would have been travelling to Swinton - something we were keen to avoid.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

DOUBLE HEADER WINNER TAKES ALL! SIDDAL 28 THATTO HEATH 12
February 28, 2009
Siddal progressed into the National Cup Quarter Finals whilst picking up 2 valuable league points at the same time. The game was evenly balanced for an hour, before a couple of late scores gave the home side the win. See reports. PREVIEW - SIDDAL'S bid to get a Shay double header next weekend may have bitten the dust, but they have managed to secure a different kind of two-up contest tomorrow. Successful talks with Conference bosses means their National Cup clash with Thatto Heath will now also count as a winner takes all Premier Division fixture as well. For Lee Greenwood's title-chasing side, whose success in knockout competitions has landed them with a massive fixture backlog, it is a potentially decisive boost. "They're drawing up the fixtures for the end of the season at the moment and we were looking at playing eight games in a month," said Siddal skipper Nick Smith. "We can chalk one of those off now tomorrow, which can only be good for us. "It's hard playing two games in a week, let alone doing it every week for a month at the end of the year. "We weren't sure whether Thatto Heath would go for it but they have and now we just need to make sure we get the win." Siddal have already beaten the St Helens outfit in Challenge Cup football this season, running out comfortable winners on home soil in January. But Smith believes that result was potentially misleading. "We got a couple of interception tries in that match and if we hadn't had those it would have been a lot closer," he said. "I think the final score probably flattered us." Tomorrow's match is Siddal's final outing before their Challenge Cup date with professional outfit Swinton, but Greenwood has been keen to keep his side's focus firmly on Heath. "Lee's been getting us to concentrate on winning this one and then we'll think about Swinton next week," said Smith. "But people are going to be looking for big games tomorrow because no one will want to miss out."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

WELL DONE GUDOR!
February 23, 2009
Siddal's Lee Gudor has been named in the the BARLA Great Britain squad for the BARLA Unison 2009 South Pacific Tour this June. He has been named in a twenty eight man touring squad as well as a six man stand bye squad. The Squad to Tour 2009 1. Ryan Fieldhouse. Leigh East 2. Carl Booth. Myton Warriors 3. Lee Maskill. Sharlston Rovers 4. Andy Dobson. Thatto Heath Crusaders 5. Chris Walker. Oulton Raiders 6. LEE GUDOR. SIDDAL 7. John McMullen. Wigan St Judes 8. Martin Riley. Wigan St Judes 9. Gary Weymes. East Hull 10. Trevor Penrose. Skirlaugh 11. Simon Stevens. Leigh East 12. Luke Varley. Castleford Panthers 13. Lee Waterman. Skirlaugh 14. Danny Ulyatt. Hull Dockers 15. Gary Phillips. Wigan St Pats 16. Richard George. Seaton Rangers 17. Dean Balmer Leigh Miners Rangers 18. Scott Lofthouse. Kells 19. Arron Bradley. Hull Dockers 20. Brett Waller. Skirlaugh 21. Ben Kendall. Thornhill Trojans 22 Leon Brennan Leigh Miners Rangers 23 Tom Sibbley Millom 24 Richard Farrer Egremont Rangers 25 James Craven Thornhill Trojans 26 Sam Radford West Hull 27 Johnny Walker Leigh East 28 Tony Suffolk Wigan St Pats Stand Bye Squad Tom Hill York Acorn Lee Edwards Barrow Island Aaron Fewless Myton Warriors Craig Wilson Millom Steve Ilingworth West Bowling Richard Cattley Stanley Rangers Mick Turner International Manager John Jefferson Assistant Manager Mick Fishwick Team Manager John Fieldhouse Coach Gary Charlton Assistant Coach Dennise Sunaman Physio Steve Manning PRO
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 52 OLDHAM ST.ANNES 12
February 22, 2009
Siddal breezed into the 4th round with this easy win. See reports. PREVIEW - Calderdale's two National Conference sides, Siddal and Ovenden, head into National Cup action this weekend with one eye on a potential derby blockbuster at Four Fields. Lee Greenwood's Siddal host Oldham St Annes at Chevinedge, while Chris Parker's Ovenden will face Saddleworth Rangers at home. Wins for both sides would leave Siddal just needing to repeat their Challenge Cup victory over Thatto Heath to set up a mouthwatering clash between the local rivals, something it seems both clubs are looking forward to. "It's a massive incentive for us and Siddal as well," admitted Parker, whose side suffered a potentially damaging Division Two reverse at Milford last weekend. "It's a long time since there was a competitive fixture between the clubs at first team level and it would be a great game for rugby league in Halifax. "I know that people are talking about it already, but there are a few results that have to drop into place first and it's important we don't get carried away. "Saddleworth will be coming here as favourites, but we enjoy the underdog tag and we know that if we stick to the things we do well then we have a good chance of getting the right result." Ovenden will be without long-term absentee Matthew Turner, while centre Mike Hastings is unavailable. Parker was running checks on Luke Brown, Dean McCallion and Ben Lister, who have all been struggling with illness or injury, but said he was "confident" the trio would be fit to play. Across town at Chevinedge, Siddal skipper Nick Smith is looking forward to back to back matches for the first time in several weeks. "All the other clubs, including Ovenden, are one round further down the track so it will be nice to start knocking some games off," said Smith. "It would be interesting going up there, that's for sure, but we've got two games to win before that can happen. "It's a competition we're keen to do well in, because a lot of the Premier Division sides are already out, but at the same time that means that clubs like St Annes will be fancying their chances too." Siddal will be without former Halifax hooker Stuart Proctor, who is tipped to join a Super League side's reserve set up in the near future. There is plenty happening off the field at Chevinedge too, with chairman Eddie Smith hoping to confirm a venue for their David against Goliath third round Challenge Cup date with Championship One side Swinton over the weekend. Siddal have been given home advantage against Paul Kidd's side - an advantage amateur clubs rarely take up in this situation - and are investigating two potential courses of action. Coach Lee Greenwood has already said he can see "no point" in switching the tie back to Manchester. "We're looking into a couple of possibilities," said Smith.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

CARNEGIE CHALLENGE CUP 3RD ROUND DRAW - SIDDAL v SWINTON LIONS
February 17, 2009
Siddal were paired against Championship One side Swinton Lions in tonights 3rd Round draw. New Lions' signing Graham Holroyd could take the field against his old amateur club, whilst there are familiar faces in ex-Halifax players Marty Moana, Paul Southern and Danny Heaton. The match will be played on the weekend 6th - 8th March with the venue to be confirmed.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 34 WEST BOWLING 10
February 14, 2009
SIDDAL go into tomorrow's Carnegie Challenge Cup derby against West Bowling dreaming of a date with Halifax in the next round. Victory over their Conference rivals would put the Chevinedge side into the hat along with the Co-operative Championship sides for next week's third round draw. And Siddal skipper Nick Smith knows there are a couple of potential ties that would out-sell the rest. One of those would be a Fax derby, the other would involve coach Lee Greenwood's Championship One outfit Oldham. "Halifax would be the ideal, obviously, for the players and the club," said Smith. "Oldham would be the other one, and we already have a gameplan worked out for Lee in case that one comes out of the hat. "Games like that are a massive incentive for us to win tomorrow, but at the same time we need to make sure we don't take West Bowling lightly. "They've beaten East Hull, who are a very good side, twice in the last couple of weeks and they've apparently got a couple of Aussies playing for them who have made a bit of a difference. "We've lost a bit of momentum over the last few weeks with all the postponements and it's important we get a good performance out. "If we do that, the result will take care of itself." Siddal trained indoors at Halifax High this week, finally beating the big freeze that has wreaked havoc with their practice schedule. "It was good just to get a ball in our hands and have a bit of a get together," said Smith. Greenwood will select from a virtually fully-fit squad, with Gareth Jones (ribs) the only casualty.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Hooson's Hitched !!
February 8, 2009
Well he will be on "Friday 13th" February. Here's a recent shot of Dave just before "Trish the Dish" broke the news to him. When you see him on Friday, you make your mind up whether he's handled the news very well !! The happy couple will be speeding up the M6 to Gretna Green in their yellow Fiat Uno to tie the knot. Knowing Dave as we all do he'll need to tie a knot in something else when facing such a long car journey. Then it's another mad dash back down the M6 in order to get back to the clubhouse for the evening bash. It might be "Friday 13th" but nothing can go wrong .... can it?? Everyone who knows the couple are invited to join them to help them celebrate their special day, whether they make it back in one piece or not!! Trish has even invited one of her old flames, 'Jason Voorhees', and he might just be making an appearance!!
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Valentine's Day Extravaganza
February 8, 2009
Never let it be said that Siddal's male membership don't know how to look after their partners. No expense has been spared as Siddal ARLFC are proud to present 'The Donkees' playing live in the clubhouse on Saturday evening. Admission to all members is free.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL v OLDHAM ST.ANNES POSTPONED!
February 7, 2009
SIDDAL skipper Nick Smith has admitted the Chevinedge side are desperate to get tomorrow's home National Cup clash with Oldham St Annes out of the way as they bid to prevent a late-season fixture pile up With Calderdale still snow-bound, the chances of any games beating the weather this weekend seem, in Smith's own assessment: "very, very slim." But with recent postponements threatening to hamper Siddal's three-pronged bid for glory in the National Conference Premier Division, Challenge Cup and National Cup, club officials are happy to contemplate the prospect of playing on snow if the match officials will allow it. "We have played on snow before and it's not that bad when you when get into it," said Smith. "Basically, we just need to play. "We are a round behind already and we need to get it on if there is any chance at all. "A lot of our rivals in the Premier are out of the National Cup and they're knocking league games off. "We don't want too many midweek games at the end of the year." If Siddal do make it onto the field, they will be warm favourites to progress against a St Annes side languishing near the bottom of Division One. "They're not in the best position in the league," said Smith. "But they beat Leigh Miners in the last round so they've obviously got the ability to find some form from somewhere."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Bring Your Shovels !!
February 6, 2009
There's half a chance we might get the 1st team game on tomorrow but only if we can clear the pitch of snow. Underneath the pitch appears to be in perfect nick. The snow covering should prevent any overnight frost from getting into the pitch. If you can help please meet on the field from 9.0am onwards
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Emerging 8's, Under 8's and 9's
February 3, 2009
Whilst everybody is presently coping with the snow and ice it might be easy to forget that our youngest players are all chomping at the bit to restart training, in preparation for the second Spring/Summer season. Coaches Martin Scrimshaw and Brian Ainley are busy fine-tuning their pre-season training schedules. If you want more information about their plans, and want to check whether your child is eligible to play, contact either of them on: Martin (07711511468) Under 8's Brian (07971899664) Under 9's
Updated by siddalarlfc

National Cup Last 16 Draw
January 31, 2009
Siddal could host Thatto Heath for the 2nd time in weeks if they can overcome Oldham St Annes this Saturday. The draw for the Fourth Round of The National Cup ties to be played on Saturday 7th February is: Egremont Rangers v West Hull Ellenborough Rangers v Millom Leigh East v Castleford Lock Lane Ovenden v Saddleworth Rangers Siddal or Oldham St Annes v Thatto Heath Crusaders Skirlaugh v Wigan St Cuthberts West Bowling v Sharlston Rovers Wigan St Judes v Queens
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 36 THATTO HEATH 12
January 31, 2009
Siddal eased into the next round of the Carnegie Challenge Cup and set up a meeting with West Bowling with this victory. See 1st team reports. PREVIEW SIDDAL captain Nick Smith insists his side are fully focused on tomorrow's delayed first round clash with Thatto Heath at Chevinedge (1.30) - and will not be distracted by the promise of a mouthwatering clash with local rivals West Bowling at the next stage of the competition. Last weekend's postponement means that Siddal host the St Helens side knowing that another win will bring Bowling to town in a fortnight's time after the derby foes were paired together in Tuesday night's second round draw. "It's a massive incentive for us, but I think we all know we can't afford to take Thatto Heath for granted," said Smith. "We cannot get distracted by it, although at the same time it is nice to know there is another home tie waiting for us on the other side if we get through tomorrow. "It's a nice local derby that always gets both teams motivated and I don't think anyone wants to miss out on it by slipping up this weekend." Siddal will be at near full strength tomorrow, with the only change likely to see former Halifax hooker Stuart Proctor starting the game in place of Craig Sanderson, with John Birt promoted to the bench. Luke Garnett is unavailable. "It's been a bit stop start for Stuart since he came down here because of the number of postponements we have had," said Smith. "But it's given him a chance to get to know everyone in training and I'm sure he'll go well for us."
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Master Stroke!
January 30, 2009
Eight Fraser Eagle National Conference League clubs are celebrating a 1,000 pound windfall. The eight clubs are Bradford Dudley Hill, East Leeds, Eccles & Salford Juniors, Leigh East Leigh Miners Rangers, Rochdale Mayfield, Saddleworth Rangers and Siddal. They were all presented with their four figure cheques at the NCL league meeting after successfully hosting Masters Rugby League events over the last year. After the huge success of the Masters concept within the eight clubs it is now envisaged that all other NCL clubs will embrace the concept this coming year. Thanks to the support of the National Sports Foundation there are currently over 800 registered players in the UK at present, and last summer saw the first ever Australian Masters Tourists fly over to the UK. A return trip down under is planned for autumn this year. For more information on Masters Rugby League visit www.tryit.co.uk
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

The Mouldy Joes Live !!
January 28, 2009
Siddal ARLFC are proud to present fast up and coming band Mouldy Joes playing live at the clubhouse on Saturday 31st January. The band play a colourful mix of traditional and contemporary Irish songs, some modern classics and a host of old favourites too. Have a look on their own website www.mouldyjoes.co.uk and we're sure you'll want to come and see them. There are also a couple of other good reasons to join us on Saturday. Shaun Garrod will be starting his celebrations in the lead up to his 21st birthday on 4th February and, at the other end of the scale, Daz Phillips will be drowning his sorrows as he hits the big 40 on Sunday 1st February. The lads will probably be hitting town from 10.0pm onwards though we think that's the time most of them "hit the wall" as they can't keep up with the more seasoned drinkers in the club!! Admission is free to all members.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

1st Anniversary & 100 Years Celebrations !!
January 19, 2009
It doesn't seem like two minutes since we took up residence in our new clubhouse but in just a few months more we'll have reached our 1st Anniversary. To mark this milestone, and celebrate our 100 Years Centenary, we want to hold some special events and involve as many of our players, supporters, families and members. Our idea is to form a special sub committee to decide, plan and organise these special celebrations. To that end we extend an invitation to all those who have a special interest in social events to meet at the clubhouse next Friday 23rd January from 7.0pm onwards. Mick Scott and John Lawless have already offered to organise one of the events on behalf of the Past Players Association. Mick has therefore kindly volunteered to "chair" the first get together but thereafter we'd like all those involved to share the responsibility of planning and organising the celebrations. The main objective is to try and ensure everybody connected with our great club has their own opportunity to be involved in the celebrations. So, we hope to organise a range of events, perhaps spread over two or three weeks, that suit every age group. If you'd like to help, please come and join in on the initial discussions next Friday evening. Let's make sure we have a great time celebrating these two special birthdays !
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Donks !!
January 19, 2009
No it's not him. Don't be frightened children, you can all come back from behind the curtains. To help mark the club's centenary we would like to make contact with the oldest, surviving ex player or club official. Whoever it is, we would like to make a bit of a fuss over him, or her, and invite them to one of our events. Now before anyone says we'll probably find that person playing in the present 'B' team we've already thought of that. There are definitely some very old people playing in that team, but we're sure there must be someone, somewhere a tad older. If you think or know of somebody who you believe might hold the distinction of being our oldest, surviving ex player or official please speak to Graham Bradley.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

YOUR CLUB NEEDS YOU !!
January 19, 2009
We are making an appeal to all club supporters. We need more help on matchdays and during the week to take the pressure off our small band of volunteers. IF you can spare an hour or so we are especially looking for volunteers to help clean the changing rooms. Presently we have just three or four people who carry out this task. Ideally if we can expand this group to say ten or a dozen, then this task can be completed on a rota basis and we will not have to rely on the same few every week. If you can help we have decided that Monday evening from 6.0pm onwards is the most convenient. Please help us to maintain the high standards of cleanliness we have seen since we moved into the new club.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 20 HULL DOCKERS 10
January 18, 2009
Siddal yet again matched Leigh Miners' result and remain level on points with the league leaders after this deserved win. See match reports. PREVIEW SIDDAL head to Hull Dockers tomorrow looking to bolster their Premier Division title challenge with skipper Nick Smith warning that the Humberside outfit will be confident of success. Dockers are the only side to have won at Siddal's Chevinedge ground so far this season, pinching a valuable victory on the opening day of the National Conference season. And while Lee Greenwood's side have stormed to the top of the league ladder since then, and are currently level on points with leaders Leigh Miners Rangers, Smith knows that result will give tomorrow's opponents crucial self belief. "They will be expecting to win," said Smith. "They've won at Siddal and they're at home this time, so I would imagine they will be pretty confident. "We can't afford to lose though, so something is going to have to give. "They probably caught us a bit cold the last time we met. "We weren't really where we wanted to be in terms of our preparation that day and they were a well drilled side. "Everyone knew their job and they stuck to the task. "We've improved a lot since then though so we should be capable of giving them a run for their money." Siddal will certainly be hungry for action, having seen last week's top of the table clash with Leigh Miners Rangers scrapped at the 11th hour because of a frozen playing surface. "It was disappointing, because everyone was really keen to play," said Smith. "As it is, they'll probably end up coming over on a Tuesday night in the spring for what might be a title decider. "Until then, we just need to concentrate on picking up the points." Smith expects Siddal to travel with the same 17 who were selected last week, with former junior international George Ambler and ex-Halifax hooker Stuart Proctor replacing John Birt and Pete Howard.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 32 NORMANTON 12
January 3, 2009
Siddal kicked off their Challenge Cup campaign with a preliminary round win against Normanton Knights. See reports.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Happy New Year!
January 1, 2009
Siddal ARLFC would like to wish everyone the best of luck in 2009, apart from our opponents!
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 20 OULTON 0
December 27, 2008
Siddal again matched Leigh Miners' result to stay level on points on with them. Defence was the key as usual, although this win was much more comfortable than in recent weeks. See reports. PREVIEW SIDDAL host Oulton Raiders on Saturday, with coach Lee Greenwood looking for his title-chasing outfit to finish the year on a high note. The Chevinedge side are enjoying their best season since the back to back Grand Final wins in 2003 and 2004, duelling with Leigh Miners Rangers at the top of the Premier Division ladder. "We're in a good position, everything is still in our hands, but I want to make sure we get the job done this weekend and finish the year with a win," said Greenwood. "The league programme gets a bit disrupted over the next few weeks because of the National Cup and Challenge Cup and I want to consolidate so we can go into the cup games in a relaxed frame of mind. "Oulton are always a really tough side to beat, and I think last year they came to us at a similar time, when we had strung a few wins together, and beat us in the last minute. "We can't afford to let that happen again." Greenwood will be without influential forwards Nick Smith and George Ambler, although veteran prop Gary Lewis is fit to return.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

JONES TO MAKE DEBUT!
December 24, 2008
New signing Gareth Jones is in the 1st team squad to face Oulton on Saturday. After making his debut for the 2nd team last weekend alongside fellow new boy Stuart Proctor, Jones will be rewarded for his dedicaton by being handed his 1st team debut. Jones has trained with the team since pre-season whilst awaiting the overturning of his ban. This is Jones pictured above with sht hair and sht kit.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

PROCTOR SIGNS!
December 21, 2008
Stuart Proctor has returned to the club he played for as a junior and made his club debut for the A team on Saturday. With Halifax disbanding their u'21's team for 2009, their loss becomes Siddal's gain.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Forget 'Mad Friday' - "Super Siddal Saturday" !!
December 20, 2008
On Saturday 20th December there will be chance to see two fantastic games at Chevinedge as the 'A' team look to continue their good form against high flying Drighlington, and the 'B' team take on the All Blacks - that's the All Blacks from Meltham ! Afterwards, all players and supporters are invited to kick off Xmas for real by joining the 1st team lads for a "few" beers and games in the clubhouse, followed by 'Marshy's Magical Mystery Fancy Dress Tour'. Older club members, can remain in the clubhouse and enjoy a great evening together and live music as the excellent 'Reflections' play live in the clubhouse again. Admission is free. Come and join us !
Updated by siddalarlfc

Chevinedger Scoops
December 19, 2008
Siddal are delighted to announce the signings of ex Ovenden player Gareth Jones, and ex Brighouse player Stuart Proctor. Both players have spent time with Halifax RLFC, and in recent years both fell foul of disciplinary panels and have had to serve periods out of the game. However both players are now free to resume their careers and the club are delighted they have chosen to join Siddal and help the club as all the Open Age Teams go into the second half of the season chasing some silverware. The lads are expected to make their debuts tomorrow, weather permitting, but the big question is for which side? Dazzler might find it difficult to fit either into an 'A' team that has found it's form over the past couple of months. Perhaps it will be 'B' Team coach Craig Turner who will have the selection headache (it would make a change from a hangover headache Craig!). Whatever, if you're looking for somewhere to go once you've finished all your Xmas shopping tomorrow get yourself down to Chevinedge for 'Super Siddal Saturday'! Rumours are rife too that an ex legend and double title winner may be pulling on his boots again ...... watch out for a 'Hooson' appearing in Siddal colours again soon. There is no truth however in the story that Barry Potter, Eddie Smith and Paul Sutcliffe are signing back on ............ now that would be stretching things a bit far !!!
Updated by siddalarlfc

Under 15's - Yorkshire Cup Finalists !!
December 17, 2008
Congratulations from everyone at the club to Carl and his lads for progressing to the U15 Yorkshire Cup Final after last weekend's great away victory over Churwell in the delayed semi final. Let's make sure we get as many supporters as possible to the final which will be played at the Featherstone Rovers stadium later on in the season. See the match report under U16'S B.
Updated by siddalarlfc

Challenge Cup Draw made!
December 16, 2008
Siddal have been drawn at home to Normanton Knights of National Conference Division 1 in the preliminary round of the 2009 Carnegie Challenge Cup. The winner of this tie will face Premier side Thatto Heath at home in Round 1. Follow this link for full draw - http://www.nationalconferenceleague.co.uk/article.php?id=52
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 14 WIGAN ST PATS 10
December 13, 2008
Siddal 1st team kept their winning run going and moved into the 3rd round of the National Cup after yet another close victory. See reports for more.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 19 EAST HULL 16
December 6, 2008
Siddal kept up their winning run and remain 2nd in the table after another close victory. See reports.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

2nds & 3rds OFF, 1sts ON!
December 5, 2008
The A team game at Queensbury and the B team game at Silsden have both been postponed but the 1st team game at home has been confirmed as ON
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 16 WEST HULL 12
November 30, 2008
Siddal kept the pressure on at the top of the table with this hard fought victory, see match reports for more info.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 6 SKIRLAUGH 4
November 22, 2008
Siddal moved back to 2nd place after grinding out a 6 - 4 win against Skirlaugh. See reports.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 28 WIGAN ST.PATS 0
November 8, 2008
Siddal are in 2nd spot on points difference to Leigh Miners after disposing of St.Pats in clinical fashion. See 1st team reports.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 29 THATTO HEATH 20
November 1, 2008
This come from behind win saw Siddal move into 4th place in the table but level on 16 points with 3 other sides at the top of the league. See reports...
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Bonfire Night
October 26, 2008
Siddal will host their own bonfire night on Saturday 8th November. We'll have the usual bonfire night treats on sale, a firework display and a great bonfire to light up the Winter evening. All kids under 12 must be accompanied by an adult please. Admission is �2.0 per adult, kids go free. If you can assist in providing any bonfire material please contact Clifford Challoner or any member of the committee. Lighting up time approx 6.30pm.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Neighbourhood Police Drop In
October 26, 2008
The next scheduled meeting is at the Siddal Sports & Community Centre on Wednesday 12th November between 11.30am and 1.0pm. This is a chance for local residents to meet your local police team of PC Dyson and PCSO Lofthouse and discuss issues affecting the local community.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 18 WIGAN ST.JUDES 16
October 25, 2008
Siddal got back to winning ways with a tough win against Wigan St Judes. See reports...
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

WINNER TAKES ALL -FANTASY RUGBY LEAGUE WORLD CUP - rlwcfantasy.dailytelegraph.com.au
October 24, 2008
If anyone fancies themself as a coach, put a team in our league. Be quick though, you don't want to miss the points from the first games. Follow the link below or cut and paste it into your browser. Once on the website, our private league code is 509235 rlwcfantasy.dailytelegraph.com.au Good luck, the people who have entered a team already have agreed to put in �5 each to the winner
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

KITS Sponsor Siddal Masters
October 19, 2008
Kirkdale Industrial Training Services (KITS), the Brighouse based Training Provider has this year selected the Siddal Rugby League Football Club to sponsor by providing the Masters Team playing kit. The sponsorship and associated advertising coincides with the Launch of the new Junction25 Conference Centre marketing campaign. KITS Chief Executive David Todhunter said:- �We are delighted to support the Siddal Masters Rugby Team by way of providing full playing kit and is our way of supporting the local community�. The Masters of Rugby League concept for over 35 year olds has enabled past players to rekindle their interest in the sport and move from the touchline back onto the field, and become actual participants again. The benefits in terms of fitness, camaraderie, and renewal of old friendships are manifest. The initiative of sponsoring the Team has additionally helped highlight KITS core function of delivery of Engineering Apprentice Training to School Leavers in the Calderdale area, many of whose parents will be proudly wearing the shirt.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Under 10\'s
October 19, 2008
Will commence training again on Saturday 1st November at 10.0am. Siddal legends Graham Hickey and Lee Regan will take the sessions alongside Stainland veteran player Russ Holroyd. All old and new players welcome.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL LOSE OUT TO LATE LEIGH MINERS TRY!
October 18, 2008
Siddal deserved at least a point but were undone by a late converted try and lost 26 -20. See reports..
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

JODY's LEAVING DO!
October 15, 2008
One of our good friends is having one last bash at the club before heading off to live down under. Jody is holding a leaving party on Saturday evening and would like to invite everybody involved with the club to say a fond farewell. Fun starts with the 2nd team kicking off at 2:30pm.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 20 LEIGH EAST 10
October 11, 2008
Siddal stayed hot on the heels of leadrers Skirlaugh with a well deserved victory over Leigh East. See match reports for more.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL 42 - MAYFIELD 24
October 4, 2008
Siddal were comfortable winners in Rochdale despite never hitting top gear. A number of soft tries were conceded to make the scoreline look closer than it should have been. See 1st team reports for more...
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

1st TEAM HAND YORK ACORN THEIR 1ST DEFEAT!
September 27, 2008
Siddal 33 York Acorn 14 See reports......
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL LOSE AT EAST HULL 32-12
September 20, 2008
Siddal 1st team lost 32-12 over in Hull. See match reports...
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

siddal u16s a
September 15, 2008
Siddal U16s -2008-09 This seasons U16s squad start the season in the Premier Division of the Yorkshire Combination Youth league - a tough, uncompromising league which includes the best from Leeds , Hull, Bradford, Huddersfield, Castleford and Halifax! Coaching with me this year are Daz Phillips and Richard Smith - its great to have two very knowledgeable backs coaching with a former prop after all these years!! THANKS LADS This years squad includes plenty that have tasted service area rugby for Calderdale and some that have achieved County and International recognition. That experience will be well tested this year as the squad develop their learning of the game of rugby against quality opposition On behalf of the squad,families and friends I would like to thank this years team sponsors ADD Express Ltd, F O\'Malleys, Websters Insurance Brokers and Heath Old Boy\'s Association. They have contributed to making this years kit -designed by the lads- look fabulous along with the teams pre match and post match corporate image This is our squad Josh Fawcett, Ryan Devlin, Luke Wood, Danny Patrice, Matty Prest, Niall Evalds, Danny Keane, Adam O\'Brien, Jamie Murphy, Josh Benn, George Thorpe, Joby Murphy, Laurie Hamer, Sam Butterworth, George Leonard, Jamie Callaghan, Josh Nolan, Brett Michael, Brad Deighton Enjoy the rugby and respect the game both on and off the field of play Jon Hamer coach
Updated by jon hamer

3rd Team kick off with a win at Elland A
September 13, 2008
The 3rd team got their season off to a winning start with 2 tries from debutant Dwayne Tetley helping them to victory.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL BEAT WEST HULL 30-12
September 13, 2008
Siddal got back to winning ways with a home win against West Hull. See match reports for full info..
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL UNLUCKY AT SKIRLAUGH. 24-10 DEFEAT NOT TRUE REFLECTION!
September 6, 2008
Siddal produced a battling display in atrocious conditions over at Skirlaugh and we're not just talking about the weather! See match reports for a totally unbiased review of the game!
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

2ND & 3RD TEAM GAMES CALLED OFF!
September 3, 2008
Siddals 2nd and 3rd team opening games scheduled for Saturday 6th September have been postponed due to waterlogged pitches
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL DEFEAT THORNHILL TROJANS 32-6
September 2, 2008
Siddal made it 2 wins from 3 games in their National Conference League campaign with a comfortable victory over the Trojans.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

OPEN AGE FRIENDLY v WYKE Saturday 30th August 12:30PM
August 28, 2008
Warm up for the Challenge Cup final by coming to see Siddal v Wyke in the final friendly of the pre season beforehand. There will be a blend of new signings, youngsters and old heads playing and it should be a good game.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL VICTORIOUS AT OULTON RAIDERS!
August 27, 2008
Siddal collected their first league points of the season with a hard fought but deserved win at Oulton. Shaun Blackburn converted Mark Boothroyd's try with 3 minutes remaining to clinch the game. See 1st team match reports for more info.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

Siddal Emerging 8's bag double at Newsome Festival
August 24, 2008
SIDDAL Emerging 8's won both their games at the latest festival held at Newsome. They started with a 52-32 success over Brighouse and followed that up with a 40-28 victory over West Bowling.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL V HULL DOCKERS - OPENING DAY DEFEAT FOR HOME SIDE
August 23, 2008
The first team began their 2008/09 National Conference League campaign with a home defeat against Hull Dockers.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

SIDDAL V WATERHEAD 16/08/08
August 16, 2008
The first team ended their pre-season preparations with a 32-20 win against Oldham side Waterhead at Chevinedge. View 1st team reports for match report.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

GOOD LUCK LEE!
August 13, 2008
Lee Gudor will line up in the BARLA team that takes on England Students in the final of the SKANSKA Cup tonight. Kick off is 7 PM at Stanningley's Arthur Miller Stadium.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

AT LAST!
August 12, 2008
The club have finally got with the times and to go along with our brand new Clubhouse, we have launched our own official website. If you would like any information on anything to do with with our great club, please go to the contacts page and get in touch with the relevant person.
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk

CONGRATULATIONS SMUDGE AND RACHEL!
August 12, 2008
Everyone at the club would like to wish Nick and Rachel Smith all the best following their recent wedding. Now there really is no excuse for picnics on the moor Smudge!!!!
Updated by siddalarlfc.co.uk


November 30, 1999

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November 30, 1999

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November 30, 1999

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Siddal U15s(16s B) Yorkshire Cup Final
November 30, 1999
Siddals U15s Yorkshire Cup Final has at last been finalized.It will be played at The Chris Moyles Stadium(Featherstone RLFC) on the 29th March 2009, All the junior finals will be played as follows.. Under 15's - Castleford Lock Lane v Siddal - Kick Off 11.00am Under 16's - Fryston v Hull Isberg - Kick Off 12.30pm Under 17's - Stanningley v Brighouse Rangers - Kick Off 2.00pm Under 18's - Stanley Rangers v Wibsey Warriors - Kick Off 3.30pm
Updated by

Information

Senior Teams

Siddal Bulldogs

Club News

PLAYER OR COACH?

LUCK OF THE DRAW!

SIDDAL DRAW BATLEY!

SIDDAL AWAIT 4TH ROUND DRAW

SUPER SIDDAL GO INTO THE RECORD BOOKS!

Book Now! Coach Travel Arrangements to Challenge Cup Tie v Doncaster RLFC

Carnegie Challenge Cup Round 3

Challenge Cup Bacon Butties !!!

NATIONAL CUP 4TH ROUND UPDATE

Sponsors Golden Opportunity

PENNINE LEAGUE PREVIEW

SIDDAL 34 WEST HULL 8

Under 9s

FORMER PLAYER TURNS BOXING PRO!

SIDDAL DRAW DONCASTER IN CARNEGIE CHALLENGE CUP 3RD ROUND

SIDDAL 34 OULTON 30

SIDDAL 18 BIRSTALL VICTORIA 6

PENNINE LEAGUE PREVIEW

HALIFAX CUP DRAWS MADE

SIDDAL v WATH BROW POSTPONED

CARNEGIE CHALLENGE CUP 2ND ROUND DRAW MADE

NATIONAL CUP 3RD ROUND DRAW MADE

3 OUT OF 3 FOR THE OPEN AGE

2 WINS FOR SIDDAL

GAMES ON!

VOLUNTEERS NOT NEEDED

1ST TEAM NEWS

ALL GAMES OFF

New Year's Day Race Day

New Year's Eve Party

Xmas Raffle Winners - 2009

Xmas and New Year Opening Hours

LAST GAME OF 2010 FOR SIDDAL @ INCE ROSE BRIDGE

DUBAI 7's KNEES UP REVIEW!

PENNINE LEAGUE PREVIEW

SIDDAL RAID OULTON!

CARNEGIE CHALLENGE CUP DRAWS MADE

Lions go out in Dubai

SIDDAL 40 LEIGH MINERS 6

Dubai Update

Siddal Boys in Dubai

GAME ON! SIDDAL A v SHARLSTON ROVERS (h) 28/11/09 KO 2pm

SIDDAL v WIGAN ST.JUDES - GAME OFF

POSTPONED! - SIDDAL v HULL DOCKERS (a) 21/11/09

SIDDAL A v DRIGHLINGTON (h) 2pm 21/11/09

NATIONAL CUP DRAW @ SIDDAL

SIDDAL 68 WIDNES ST.MARIES 0

Under 14s Fund raising walk

LEIGH EAST 28 SIDDAL 14

PRO KIDS RUGBY TOTS

Race Day

PENNINE LEAGUE PREVIEW

SIDDAL 34 SKIRLAUGH 10

Kids Halloween Party !!

GUDOR STARS FOR YORKSHIRE

SIDDAL 6 WATH BROW 10

"Take Me Home"

SIDDAL v EAST HULL (h) 10/10/09 2pm KO

SIDDAL 24 WEST HULL 20

More From Kangaroo Joe

Master Nolan's Aussie Diary

SIDDAL 34 OULTON 4

PENNINE LEAGUE PREVIEW

GB Masters on Tour Down Under

SIDDAL 18 LEIGH MINERS 20

PENNINE LEAGUE PREVIEW

Under 14's Training - Tue 15th September @ 6pm

SIDDAL 58 WIGAN ST.JUDES 10

PENNINE LEAGUE KICKS OFF!

SIDDAL 14 HULL DOCKERS 14

SIDDAL 20 YORK ACORN 6

Phillips smashed by Under 14's player

KIDS SUMMER HOLIDAY CAMP WEDNESDAY 26th AUGUST

SIDDAL 32 WIDNES ST MARIES 12

NCL SEASON NEARLY HERE

Elvis Challenge !!