Fylde poised to shake things up at top of the table

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Fylde RFC are ready to start their next block of National Two North fixtures with “a chance to shake up the league table”.

The Woodlands club could enjoy their week off on the back of a five-game winning run, and training has resumed in earnest ahead of Saturday's return to league action at home to Otley (3pm).

The run-up to Christmas is split into two blocks of three games, the first of which also brings a visit to Hull and a mouth-watering home clash with unbeaten Leeds Tykes.

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Joint-head coach Alex Loney told The Gazette: “We've had the season's first break and now we have to refocus for a serious run of games.

Fylde Rugby club in actionFylde Rugby club in action
Fylde Rugby club in action

“You mustn't look too far ahead and lose sight of the present but this next block brings some key games and a chance to shake up the table. If we can pick up some results, it will take us into the mix of competing with teams at the top.”

Fylde's winning run has lifted them into fourth place and Loney feels they are reaping the rewards of greater strength in depth.

He added: “I've said on multiple occasions it's all about consistency to grind out results. Performances haven't been perfect but we do feel we are moving forward. We're in a good place and happy with results.

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“We feel we have a stronger squad and we're having to make tough selection decisions across the board every week. When we have unavailability, we try to make sure we can cope.

“We've used a fair few players already and we're having to make some tight calls in selection.

“The Second XV are doing really well and getting good results too, and that's the proof of the pudding.”

Otley have won and lost games in equal measure this season but Fylde won't be wanting for motivation against a side who beat them 46-22 last time they met in West Yorkshire in March.

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“Otley are a good side and a long-time National League club,” Loney said. “We've watched video and can see the damage they can do.

“We were soundly beaten there last season, when we were miles off, and minds are firmly attuned to this weekend. We will be well prepared to perform well.”

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