HEATHBROOK will not be a place for the faint-hearted this Saturday as it plays host to the Dudley Kingswinford and Old Halesonians derby clash (kick-off 2.15pm).

Local pride is not the only thing at stake, with both sides searching for two points to help push them up the Midlands One table.

Hosts DK currently sit fourth in the standings and are looking to continue their recent good form, while Old Hales sit just two points and three places further back.

The fires have been further stoked after Old Hales knocked DK out of the North Midlands Cup last Saturday with a battling 13-8 victory.

DK joint head coach Mark Lockley said his side would be relishing the derby atmosphere.

He said: “It should be a good game, we are definitely going to be up for it and will be very much looking for a win.

“It’s important we keep the run we are on in the league going, it’s vital we win our home games.

“They have done well since being promoted last season and it should be quite tight.”

Lockley revealed there were no fresh injury concerns from Saturday’s fixture, which was played in howling winds and driving rain.

DK named a much changed side, which also included returns from lengthy injury lay-offs for Ollie Shakespeare and Ben Connett.

Nick Adams scored a try on eight minutes to cancel out an early penalty for the hosts and give DK the lead, but their joy was shortlived as Old Hales scored two tries of their own before the break through Chris Wagstaff and Alan Hubbleday.

The visitors fought hard to get back into the game after the break but were unable to take advantage of numerous opportunities as Old Hales back line held firm.

Adams’ penalty two minutes from time was the only score of the second period.

Old Hales are also without any major injury concerns ahead of the game.

Skipper Wagstaff is hoping his side can find some consistency after ending up on the wrong side of several agonising defeats this campaign.

He said: “We are really focusing on the 50/50 games, we have won only one of four close games this season and that’s why we aren’t higher in the table.

“It’s a big game for the club on Saturday, DK used to be several leagues ahead of us so to play them in a competitive fixture is exciting - in that respect it was a massive win for us last weekend.

“They have been strong at home this season but we are in confident mood, I think it could be quite close.”