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Aston looks ahead to Barrow battle

08/02/2023

Sheffield Eagles Director of Rugby Mark Aston admits there will be “a few more headaches” regarding selection going into this weekend’s game at Barrow Raiders.

The Eagles fought hard against Halifax in round one of the new season but came up just short, losing 26-18 to the Panthers.

A frustrating first half saw Aston’s men trail by just ten points - 16-6 - despite the hosts’ winning the territory battle.

“How we were still in it at half-time, I don’t know,” he reflected.

“I thought they showed a lot of character and endeavour in the second half to get back into it and potentially win the game.

“With a minute to go, we’re in that top corner and you either win or you lose. They come down the field and get the score at the end.

“There were some positives but also some negatives.”

With the Raiders next up at the Matt Johnson Prestige Stadium, Aston acknowledged Barrow’s motivation to bounce back after they were defeated by Toulouse on the opening weekend.

“We’ve got a tough start,” Aston said.

“Halifax finished in the top four last year, Barrow went really well too but got beat by Toulouse so will have a point to prove.

“We just need to progress and develop, fixing up the stuff we got wrong on Sunday.

“There will be a couple of people back which means there will be more tough decisions for me to make.

“Thacks is over his suspension and he’ll come into it. Games like Sunday against Halifax, those are what Thacks wins you.

“Jesse and QLT should be there or thereabouts.

“I’ll have a few more headaches but I’m looking forward to them.”

Tickets for the Barrow game can be purchased here.

Buying online, and in advance, saves you money on match day prices.

By Dan Fowler, photo by Jake Borrill