Dings Crusaders v Leeds Tykes: Defence key as Tykes look to bounce back

However, despite the Crusaders having just one win from their five games, Tykes’ director of rugby, Pete Seabourne, expects a tough encounter against a team sat just one point below them.

“It’s going to be an interesting game,” said Seabourne. “Obviously, they’ve got links with Bristol Bears, so they’ll be able to get their academy lads in, depending on what Bristol are doing.

“We’ve had a good look at them this week. They’re a good side and it’s a plastic pitch, so we know it’s going to be an open, fast game.”

Seabourne also remembers the 62-31 defeat that they suffered at the hands of the Crusaders in the same fixture last season, but says his side is in a good place at the moment, and are up for the challenge.

“We went down there last year and really struggled on that surface,” he added. “We got a bit of a battering, to be honest, so we owe them one.

“But the lads are up for the fight. We’ve had a good week of training following the Sale game. We were disappointed to lose that, but we know we’re moving forward as a team and we’re in a good spot at the minute.”

When Seabourne was asked what the key would be for the weekend ahead, he replied with just one word as he placed emphasis on their opponent’s ability to move the ball around.

“Defence,” explained Seabourne. “We’ve got to tackle because they like to throw the ball about. They’re a really good side to watch. They don’t kick it much and they like to throw the ball about, so we’ll have to be good defensively.

“Attack-wise, if we get our attack right, I don’t think they’ll be able to cope with us. That’s something we’ll have to make sure we get right.”

The squad has been rife with injuries lately and the Tykes will be without the services of Adam Brown, Caden Davies and George Worthington with Seabourne explaining that they won’t be risked.

However, they are set to welcome back Jamie Major and Will Dennis into the squad for the weekend which will be a big boost.