UNDERBANK RANGERS will welcome back two key players as they begin their final Conference National League play-off push.
Prop Dave Valentine and centre Adam Ryder return for tomorrow’s home clash against third-placed Hemel Stags (2.00).
The influential duo missed last week’s excellent 20-14 triumph at fellow play-off chasers Kippax Knights as Bank moved a step closer to keeping their dream of a second consecutive Grand Final appearance alive.
With all those who figured at Kippax having emerged injury-free, Bank head coach Richard Knight admits he has some tough selection choices ahead.
But with Valentine and Ryder having been two of Rangers’ top performers this season, Knight knows their returns following last week’s unavailability are timely.
“We couldn’t fault anyone last week for the way they played, and it is tempting to go with an unchanged team tomorrow,” said Knight.
“But we know we’ll be in for a massive test against Hemel, and the stronger side we can put out the better.
“Dave and Adam have been really impressive for us this season and if they can maintain that level of form this weekend then we’ll be in with an excellent chance of winning.
“Hemel are a good team, as they showed when they beat us at their place earlier in the season.
“They are very strong and physical team, and we need to be able to match them for that, which is why Dave and Adam are back in.
“After winning at Kippax last Saturday, we’ve put ourselves in an excellent position for the play-offs and we can really start to build some momentum with a win over Hemel.
“On top of that, the squad is looking in relatively good shape for this time of the year.
“If we can keep injury-free between now and the end of the season, I know we can put ourselves in a great position to have another really strong shout in the play-offs.”
