The NCL Eagles have had an early start this morning as they headed to North West France to take on France B.

The Eagles – a representative side for players who ply their trade in Division One and Two of the Hattons Solicitors National Conference League – are set to face their French opponents in Nantes on Saturday and coach Anthony Murray has named a 18-man squad for the trip.

Leading the party will be Team Manager Ken Sykes from Heworth.

“The lads have had three excellent training sessions with the last one taking place last Saturday,” said Sykes.

“All 18 members of the squad were in attendance and I know that Anthony was really pleased with the way things had gone.”

The squad hope to arrive at their training base in Rennes this evening and will then have tomorrow as a full day to prepare for the clash against the French.

“After making the inaugural trip last year we’ll be going all out for our first win this time round,” added Sykes.

“Last year was a two game tour and we managed a draw against France B before losing out to Morocco, hopefully this time we can come home with a victory.”

The side will be captained by Millom veteran Paul Evans and the vice captain role has been handed to Danny Kay (Oldham St Annes).


NCL Eagles: squad to face France B
Nathan Kitson, Neil Wall (both Bradford Dudley Hill); Tom Wood (Castleford Lock Lane); Steve Barry, Marc Jones, Glynn Watson (all Eccles & Salford Juniors); Anthony Dixon, Paul Evans (both Millom); Lee James (Myton Warriors); Michael Hill (Normanton Knights); John Fox, Daniel Kay (both Oldham St Annes); Gareth English, Chris Geoghegan (both Ovenden); Aidan Gleeson, Robert Kershaw (Rochdale Mayfield); Adam Walker (Saddleworth Rangers); Glenn Holland (Thatto Heath Crusaders)


France B v NCL Eagles
Saturday 12 June
Stade Michel Lacointre, Nantes
Kick Off 4.00pm