Sale Sharks
Fri, 09 May 2008 10:20
Club Details
Sale Sharks RUFC,
Edgeley Park,
Hardcastle Road,
Stockport,
SK3 9DD
Stadium Capacity: 10,500
Website: www.salesharks.com
Founded: 1861
- 2007/8 Season Preview -
Last time around: On the back of their greatest season to date - the only team in the history of the play-offs to finish at the top of the league and go on to win the final at Twickenham - Sale were unceremoniously brought back down to earth in 2006/7. Having lost a mere five matches in that memorable year, the Sharks were dogged by injury last term, chalking up just eight league victories - meaning Philippe Saint Andre's men finished just two places above the drop.
This time? The exciting purchase of All Black Luke McAlister is sure to aid the Sharks in their quest for silverware. Coupled with the return from long-term injury of Charlie Hodgson and Jason White, Saint Andre may feel as though he has three world class new signings. The retirement of talisman Jason Robinson could possibly see wing Steve Hanley return to the fore. However, due to last season's disappointments, Sale will compete as one of the favourites in the European Challenge Cup. But surely this season, a seemingly new-look Sharks will be back at the right end of the Guinness Premiership.
Coach: Former France captain Philippe Saint-André, who won 69 international caps, coached Gloucester for three seasons before leaving for Bourgoin in February 2002. He was sacked by the French club in January 2004 after he applied to become the next Wales coach. Since then, the Frenchman has enjoyed a wonderful taste of Premiership success with his new club, last year's events aside.
Captain: Following Jason Robinson's retirement, second row Dean Schofield will be the man leading the Sharks for the 2007/8 season. The 28-year-old has been a consistent performer for his club and was rewarded this summer with two appearances on England's tour of South Africa. His experience is invaluable and he has earned the respect from coach, player and Sale fan alike.
One to watch: Centre Luke McAlister is a star who, in fact grew up in Lancashire. The All Black, who is equally at home at fly-half, was the outstanding player for New Zealand's Under 18 and has rapidly risen through the ranks to Graham Henry's side. Battling with Aaron Mauger for the number 12 shirt, McAlister will be on World Cup duty for the early part of the season, but his combination with Hodgson at Edgeley Park is surely going to be worth the wait!
Final 2007/8 league position prediction: 3rd
skybet.com prediction (04/9): 7-1 to finish first
In: Luke McAlister (Auckland Blues), Rory Lamont (Glasgow Warriors), Scott Lawson (Glasgow Warriors), Rudi Keil (Gloucester).
Out: Jason Robinson (Retired), Andy Titterrell (Gloucester), Mark Taylor (Ospreys), Daniel Larrachea (Bayonne).
Colours: White and blue
Tickets: £5 - £44
Travel connections: Manchester airport is only a twenty-minute drive away, and links you to Stockport from just about anywhere in Europe. If you come from the south, rail is probably the best bet, as Stockport lies on the main line to Manchester. There are plenty of motorways around, the M60, 61, 62 and 56 all pass by not too far away.
