Rugby Union: Aspinall gives Harrogate squad an ultimatum to keep their shirts

Mike Aspinall issued an ultimatum to more than half of his Harrogate squad to front up this Saturday or risk losing their first team shirts.
By Ed White
Published 9th Oct 2015, 11:19 BST
Selection dilemma: Mike Aspinall questioned Harrogate's execution in attack against Leicester LionsSelection dilemma: Mike Aspinall questioned Harrogate's execution in attack against Leicester Lions
Selection dilemma: Mike Aspinall questioned Harrogate's execution in attack against Leicester Lions

Harrogate crashed to a third defeat in a row in National Two North last weekend with a 26-20 defeat at third-placed Leicester Lions.

Director of rugby Aspinall was critical of Harrogate’s execution in attack, and admitted players’ places would be on the line in Saturday’s home clash against Huddersfield.

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The coach said a number of second team players had “held their hands up” in a 46-16 victory over Ilkley at the weekend.

Georgians members Jonny Gilles, Alex Nesbitt, Charles Morgan, Jack London, Guy Coser and Sam Thomas were all mooted for first team selection, while experienced hooker Steve Maycock and winger James Audsley-Beck have also come into contention for a recall by Aspinall.

The coach said: “My gut feeling is that the boys will have my faith for one more week to sort it out before my hand will be forced to give other people opportunities.

“If the performance isn’t there, they don’t deserve to wear the shirt.”

Asked which players’ performances were concerning him, Aspinall replied: “There are certain players where I am not, but that’s probably less than the flip side.”

Related topics:HarrogateIlkley