Stour looking for favours

It's win or bust for Stourbridge as they welcome Henley to Stourton Park.

The National Two side know they must claim a bonus point win on Saturday to take advantage of any slip up from their rivals, writes Mark Dobson.

Neil Mitchell's men take on the Hawks hoping that Manchester – their closest promotion rivals – will come a cropper as they travel to Redruth.

And with top dogs Otley facing a tough test at Cambridge, this weekend could yet throw the promotion race back open.

"It's certainly going to be a very interesting few weeks," said Stourbridge's director of rugby.

"I don't think anyone likes going to Redruth and Cambridge are very strong at home.

"Obviously, we need to look after ourselves and, realistically, we have to be looking to get 15 points out of our final three matches.

"If we finish the season on 99 points and don't go up then I think you have to applaud the opposition."

Henley have a dismal points difference this season and sit third from bottom in the table.

So, the fixture offers the chance to put some much-needed points on the board as Stourbridge bid to play catch-up in the promotion race.

"Henley will know that the pressure is on us and they will come to Stourton Park fancying their chances.

"But I think, if the weather holds up, the supporters are looking at quite an entertaining match because, traditionally, Henley like to play an expansive game."

Mitchell has been given a boost this week with the news that Dan Lavery may, after all, be fit for the final two games of the season.

The fly-half broke his jaw last month in the win at Halifax but, after an operation, is expected to get the green light from the consultant on Wednesday to play again.

• Otley's Ben Steele, who was cited by Stourbridge for stamping in the game at Stourton Park last month, has been suspended for three weeks. He can play again on April 30.