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LIONS v EAGLES – Team News

01 July 2023

Swinton Lions v Sheffield Eagles – Heywood Road Stadium, M33 3WB – Sunday 2 July kick-off 3pm

Following the Lions’ tremendous performance last weekend at Widnes Vikings, who we beat for the first time in 25 years, focus now switches to our home Betfred Championship match versus Sheffield Eagles this coming Sunday.

The Lions lost narrowly in our televised game at the Olympic Legacy Park back in April, and were trailing by only 4 points until a last minute breakaway try secured a 16-6 success for the Eagles. Sheffield are certainly flying high this season, and with the added attraction of our former half-back Jack Hansen in the Eagles’ squad, it will be fascinating to see if the Lions can clip their wings and build on last Sunday’s success at Widnes.

Unfortunately, our skipper Rhodri Lloyd, who reached his 250th career appearance in our last home game, is set to miss out. He reported a problem in training at the AJ Bell Stadium on Thursday night, and will be rested as a precaution. Fortunately, our DR partners St Helens were able to supply Sam Royle as a replacement, who scored a try on his debut at the Summer Bash five weeks ago.

Another welcome returnee to the Lions’ squad is our experienced winger Mike Butt, who hasn’t featured since being injured at York in that Summer Bash encounter with Widnes. Butty needs just two tries to reach 100 for the Lions.

Young half-back Will Roberts, who has made a stunning impact since joining us on DR from St Helens, took a heavy knock at Widnes last week. Although now recovered, the two clubs felt it sensible for him to be rested for the Sheffield game, although he could well turn out in lesser intensity with St Helens Academy. On the plus side, Jordan Gibson is now fit and set to resume in our halves.

Speaking of DR, Ben Davies remains with us for the weekend, and also coming into our squad on DR is Matty Foster. Matty is a 22 years old 5’ 10” second-rower, who has already made his debut for the St Helens first team. George Delaney, however, has understandably been recalled by Saints.

Our full 21 man squad is:-

Dan Abram; Andy Badrock; Kenny Baker; Gavin Bennion; Louis Brogan; Mike Butt; Jordan Case; Mitch Cox; Ben Davies; Josh Eaves; Jamie Ellis; Matty Foster; Jordan Gibson; Nick Gregson; Lewis Hall; Jayden Hatton; George Roby; Gavin Rodden; Joey Romeo; Sam Royle; Jake Spedding.

 

CHARLIE WALLWORK 

Everyone associated with Swinton Lions was stunned yesterday by the passing of Charlie Wallwork.

As a dedicated “Lion” of many decades, Charlie was well known to virtually all of us. A real gentleman, who was proactively involved with the club as our PA announcer and helping out with fundraising and fun activities such as his famous quizzes, bingo afternoons and children’s Christmas party.

Ahead of kick-off against Sheffield Eagles, we will hold a minute’s silence in tribute to Charlie.

Our thoughts and best wishes are with Charlie’s family and many friends at this sad time.

 

 

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