Richard Hill has revealed no-nonsense hooker Chris Fortey and points machine Andy Goode are both set for call-ups for the trip to Rotherham Titans – as he orders his team to take a direct approach for the clash at Clifton Lane on Saturday (kick-off 2pm).
Experienced front row Fortey impressed after climbing off the bench during the victory over Plymouth Albion in the RFU Championship while fly half Goode could return after being rested for the league clash.
Head Coach Hill is predicting a stern examination in Yorkshire but believes the game is exactly what his team needs as he urges more physicality and a stronger start.
“It will be a physical game for the forwards and we have talked a lot about the need to start well,” said Hill.
“We need the physicality and we have had some brutal training sessions this week and great intensity. It’s been great to watch from the sidelines.
“We have really now got to take our performances on the training park into the game. There is no doubt that Rotherham will be a physically demanding game.
“They have a very narrow pitch at Clifton Lane so there will not be too much running rugby, there will be a lot of driving and you have got to go direct.
“A certain set of tactics are needed and that is the way we need to play. We have been in a mentality to throw the ball around a bit too much, we need to go route one. This is the right game at the right time for us.
“We have been good away from home, maybe there is less pressure. It is another different ground and it will be a good challenge for us. It will be a good test of the mettle of this squad.
“We will probably give Chris Fortey a start at hooker,” he added “He came off the bench and did well against Plymouth. We will also look to continue with Adam Black, who I was pleased with too.
“We will almost certainly bring back Andy Goode for this particular game and Willie Walker will again continue at full back. I think it is important he gets another go and let’s see what he can do at Rotherham.”