Mirfield Stags set for inaugural campaign

The Stags will be joined in the first division by Birstall Victoria.

Shaw Cross Sharks A have withdrawn from Pennine League Division Two, with their scheduled opponents being awarded 30-0 wins for the remaining six matches.

However, the Sharks’ second string have a side in the Yorkshire Men’s League and will play in Division Two this season.

The Stags have also confirmed the inaugural fixture will be a friendly away to Shaw Cross next Saturday (February 21, kick-off 2pm).

The Stags A team are in Division Four, while Batley Boys, Dewsbury Celtic and Thornhill Trojans all have sides in the Yorkshire Men’s Entry League, where they will play eight matches each.

Mirfield Stags are also in Forty-20 Cup action, which starts later this month.

Stags head coach Richard Silverwood said: “The Sharks will be strong but our lads have done really well so far. They are training hard and I am thrilled with the progress being made.

“We have captured people’s imagination around the town and hopefully we will benefit from some good support for the first game.”

Among the Stags’ new signings is former Dewsbury Rams and Batley Bulldogs half-back Francis Maloney, pictured with teammates Danny Taylor and Kryss Tominay in the team’s new home strip.

A Stags spokesperson said: “We wanted to create what we believe is an iconic playing strip and are absolutely delighted with the end result and would like to thanks the designers at Ravensport for their efforts in helping it all come together.