Rugby Union: Brighton in good stead as duo join

Nov 7 2007 by Andrew Stratton, Liverpool Daily Post

NEW BRIGHTON have added a couple of Wirral players to their squad as they look to create better selection options in their North Two West promotion drive.

The Blues have lost just one league match to date and sit fourth in the table.

Ryan Stead made his debut in the back row against Northwich at the weekend and Martin Canham was given a start on the wing after originally being named as a replacement.

The situation continues to improve at Hartsfield after some traumatic times which brought about successive relegations.

On Saturday they needed a battling display against lowly Northwich after the Blues went down to 14 men ahead of half-time when skipper Kati Tuipulotu was red carded.

Just when it seemed the visitors would sneak the verdict Jim Yarranton landed a penalty in added time to grab the points.

The loss of Tuipulotu for an alleged raking offence was unfortunate. He could now face a suspension although much will depend on what visiting London Society referee Sandy Flakelar states in his match report.

Joe Bowmer ,who was another to recently sign in at Hartsfield, scored the only try against Northwich when the Blues displayed some of their new-found character.

Goal kicker Stephen Dean could be back for Saturday’s visit to Lymm, who are one point better off than the Wirral club.

New Brighton face cup action on Tuesday of next week in the county competition. The semi-final takes them to neighbouring Birkenhead Park who won the toss of coin for choice of venue.

It is a big ask with Park riding high in North One but derbies can often produce upsets and Brighton will give it a real go to try to gain a final place for the second year running.