Having hauled themselves into the top nine, Sheffield come to Spotland on Sunday on the crest of a 46-26 walloping of fast-fading Workington ToWn. But despite having an 11 and 10 record from their 21 games, thier points difference is actually better then Hornets' - yet more evidence of our 'leaky defence syndrome'.

Having failed in their attempt to court wayward prodigy Darren Robinson, the Eagles have added to their squad this week by signing GB Students' second row Richard Singleton and utility back Greg Hurst.

They'll go into a squad buoyed-up by last week's big win. Steered around the field by Richard Goddard, the Eagles juggernaut outplayed, out-thought, out-muscled and out-enthused a powerful ToWn side. Top billing last week went to fullback Andy Pointer who steamed in for a hat-trick - and with three of the four threequarters registering tries (the other coming from Goddard), you can see precisely where the threat comes from. Also catching the eye was midget tackling machine Adam Carroll. What the hooker lacks in inches, he more than makes up for in effort, so running round rather than through him might be a preferred option.

It promises to be an interesting one, this. Where we are used to a parade of spoiling teams coming to Spotland to lie on, roll around and arse about, Sheffield are gaining a reputation as a team that likes to ship the ball wide early and let the fast lads have a run in space. And it's paying dividends - the Eagle are in the nine with daylight between them and the Rams.

But followers of form could predict that Sunday's game will be a bit of a basketball affair. Hornets and Sheffield have the worst two points differences in the top nine (71 and 74 respectively), so whilst both coaches have built sidea that like expansive, flowing attack it seems that neither side actually likes to tackle much. So once again, defence will be the key - the side that tightens up at the back will build a better foundation for their game - and if last week is anything to go by, Hally should have had the side on the tackle bags all week.

40-18 up with 14 minutes remaining, Hornets now traditional last quarter sleep let a team that had been heartily thumped for over an hour scramble back into a position of respectabillity.
Martin's scowl as he stormed down the tunnel spoke volumes of his frustration and he'll be very, very keen to emphasise the importance of concentration in key positions and a commitment to putting the opposition on their backsides.

Following Latham Tawhai's suspension, he'll also have an enforced change to deal with at scrum half. Mutterings amongst supporters have wondered how Woody - now looking comfortably re-established at six - would play outside Warren Ayres. And now they could well get their chance to find out. Ayresey's quick-fire passing game contrasts with Tawhai's bustling style and it'll be a very interesting three weeks with these two lining up together. Woody plays almost entirely on confidence and needs space and a well-timed pass to create the space for him to run his angles across defensive lines. Warren has fast hands, pinpoint accuracy and a varied kicking repertoire.
Let's hope they click quickly - it's a mouthwatering prospect.

With some top-nine tail-enders starting to fade a bit and the stronger sides in the lower half finding form, the battle for the playoff places is becoming increasingly tight. Sheffield have taken advantage of Dewsbury's recent dip, Batley have come steaming in with a run of 8 straight wins, Barrow have found some huge momentum and the arrival of Steve Molloy has seen Oldham kick start their season. At the business end, Leigh Hornets and Fev seemingly change places almost weekly and the team that settles into a winning groove quickest will gain a very major advantage.

Last week's win against Dewsbury was welcome - if frustrating. But we did show flickers of what this very talented side is capable of. Now we've put the losing run behind us and it's time to hit the straps. Every game between now and the end of the season is absolutely vital - indeed, one contributor to the message board described each one as a 'cup-final'. And they're right. Everyone at Rochdale Hornets needs to stand-up for the cause and give it 100% - and that includes you and me. Your support on Sunday is crucial to the cause. Be there, it promises to be a cracker.