Lull before the storm?

So, here we are in a reasonable third position in the Championship in the most competitive season ever, where six teams are still in with a shout for the title, and a further two or three who could turn their season around and aim for the playoffs. We are carrying a few injuries to significant players, like most teams this time of year, but we have added some experience and bulk to the squad at just the right time. Yes the storm is coming in three weeks time (and beyond) but we appear to be set fair for those challenges.  

Next up we have the Cup and Gala away, followed by Bristol at Headingley. Gala are flying high at the top of the Scottish Premiership with just two losses in thirteen games. With Melrose lying second, and Hawick also in the league, there is renewed strength in the amateur game in the Scottish borders, though sadly no professional presence since the demise of the Borders franchise a few years back. Although soundly beaten at Clifton Lane we can expect a much stiffer test from the Borderers on their home ground, especially if the weather, currently mild, deteriorates. Following that Bristol offer a different and tougher challenge at Headingley after our close run 17-21 loss in the away fixture. Two good wins would bring an extended cup run, and further confidence to the camp.

Probably the chief benefit of the Cup is the opportunity to test the whole squad, and have a short period away from the war of attrition that is the Championship. Injuries can be rested, young and up and coming players can gain experience and a chance to put their case, and match practice is available for those players on the fringe of the match day squads, and the new signings Beech, Casson, Clarke and Vickerman have the opportunity to integrate and impress. We have a squad of 48 players listed on the site, and I expect the likes of Barnard, Armstrong, Brady, Burridge, Williams, Martey, Jack Walker, Preston-Routledge and Ramshaw to feature in the squads for both games, leavened by more experienced players as Jimmy Lowes decides particularly for the Bristol game. We don’t want to lose that one do we.

We also have three players, Cole, Dudman and Hill yet to feature this season at this level. Are they available and will they get the chance ? Each year we have a debate about the value of a cup competition, particularly as the primary objective of Leeds is to regain and retain a place in the Premiership. I had mixed views before writing the preview, but having thought about it, I lean towards a more positive view, and I am looking forward to seeing our young guns in action, plus a bit of nous from the new signings in Galashiels on Saturday. Have a safe trip, anyone coming up, and be careful on those Border roads.