Skolars wait on Hopkins

Brad Hopkins is London Skolars' major doubt with a knee injury for the Co-operative Championsip 1 clash with Rochdale Hornets.

The Skolars have enjoyed a good record against their opponents in recent seasons, something coach Brad Hopkins is keen to continue.

Mbu said: "We've beaten them down here in consecutive seasons and, with so much riding on the game, we'll be looking for a hat-trick."

Gary Middlehurst returns for Rochdale after missing last week's game through work commitments.

However, Wayne English and Joe Fitzpatrick are unavailable, while Jonny Leather is a major doubt as he battles to overcome hamstring and ankle injuries.

Hornets coach John Stankevitch said: "There are some young lads that might get a go this week. They've got some hunger, and they'll be very keen to get an opportunity."

He added: "Joe Mbu's done a fantastic job at London. He's not got a massive budget, he's not got a huge catchment area of players, but this year and a little bit of last year as well, they've just had a different attitude.

"They're prepared to get tough when a game gets tough. They work hard for each other and bash you around when it's necessary.

"We need to go down there and be tough, otherwise we'll get beat - and beat heavily. They're not whipping boys anymore. On their day they're as good as anything in this league."