Champions pose early Raiders test

By arjones

NORTH Devon Raiders will begin their maiden Co-operative Rugby League Conference season with a home game against reigning champions Devon Sharks.

Raiders will host Torquay's 2009 South West Grand Final winners on Sunday, May 9, at 2.30pm.

That will be followed on Saturday, May 15, by a trip to Exmouth to tackle South West Cup holders East Devon Eagles.

Raiders spokesman Keith Fillingham said: "We couldn't have asked for a tougher start to our first season. But with the development of the game in the South West, all our fixtures will be tough.

"Playing the league champions and cup holders in the first two rounds will certainly let our players know the standard they need to reach if they intend to battle for silverware come the end of the season.

"But North Devon is a true rugby area and we hope to recruit a strong squad to meet the challenge."

Raiders will play home games at 2.30pm on Sundays, with most away games on Saturdays.The club plan to announce their home ground soon.

Pre-season training is due to begin with a taster session on Sunday, March 21, at 1pm before weekly evening sessions starting in April.

Anyone interested in playing or acting as physio can contact the Raiders through the club's website or turn up at the taster session.

North Devon Raiders 2010 fixtures (2.30pm unless stated) —May 3: South West Nines, Exeter. May 9: Devon Sharks (H). May 15: East Devon Eagles (A, 1pm). May 22: Plymouth Titans (A). June 6: East Devon Eagles (H). June 12: Devon Sharks (A). June 20: South Somerset Warriors (H). June 26: South Dorset Giants (A). July 11: Somerset Vikings (H). July 17: Exeter Centurions (A). July 25: Plymouth Titans (H).