A WATERLOGGED ground at Hull forced the cancellation of Kendal's North Division One fixture and Director of Rugby Chris Hayton believes the weather will also be a major factor this weekend as his side defend their unbeaten home record against Huddersfield.

"The heavy ground and a wet ball tend to curb the natural flowing game we try to play," he said.

Kendal's away form has been poor, but Huddersfield are one of the sides Kendal have beaten on their travels and Hayton says: "They will be coming to Mint Bridge seeking revenge for one of the few defeats they have had at home.

"The game promises to be an exciting one with their strong back line sure to test our defence, while their powerful pack has been a match for all the sides in the league.

"They currently lie in third place, four points ahead of ourselves and they are chasing the second place play-off position.

"Visiting Kendal is never an easy prospect for any team, however, and our home form this year will ensure that they have to work hard for any reward which may be on offer.

"Our pack is looking nearer full strength with the return of Billy Coxon and Rob Quarry has shaken off a bad bout of flu to add to our mobility.

"Our prospects for the second-place promotion spot are now in the hands of others, so we have reached a time for forward planning, and looking at strategies to take the club forward, building on the strength coming through at junior level.

"We have consolidated this season so far and are in strong position to mount a future challenge on the league."

Tomorrow's match, sponsored by Derek Hicks & Thew and Direct Design kicks off at 2pm and the squad is: Forwards: B. Coxon, A Martindale, R. Harryman; R. Quarry, M. Capstick; S. Oliver, N. McKain, G. Holmes.

Backs: J. Gough, M. Tuhakaraina; A. Boardley, P. Tuhakaraina, N. Michelini, J. Ladell; S. Mulholland.

Bench: I. Ross, L. Hayton, C. Park.

n Kendal Under-17 Colts fell at the first hurdle in the National Plate competition, losing 29-7 to Newcastle-based Percy Park in the North region quarter-finals.