OLD Halesonians will be hoping for a huge crowd at Wassell Grove this Saturday when they take on National League Three Midlands leaders Nuneaton (2.15pm).

Team manager Simon Hussey is under no illusions of the task ahead and claimed: “It’s a must win game and we need as many supporters there as possible to get behind the side.”

Hales put their festive celebrations aside with two training sessions ahead of the clash with Nuns, with Hussey adding: “We’ve just got to go all out and get the win.”

Hales will be boosted by the return of hooker Pete Fitzgerald and loose-head prop Tom Dempsey but will be missing second row Rich Sawyer, so former Colts player Tom King steps into the ‘boilerhouse’.

Busy Hales have also recruited another loose-head prop in Cliff Tomkinson, who has represented West Midlands Police and was previously with Bridgnorth.

lTOP class athletics returns to the region this Saturday when Halesowen AC host the Worcestershire County Cross Country Championships at Manor Way.

Races take place throughout the day ranging from Under-13s through to Seniors.

There’s extra incentive for runners who get selected to represent Worcestershire as the Inter Counties Championships take place locally this year at Birmingham’s Cofton Park during March.