HAVING only trailed hosts Sale FC 6-3 at half-time, Otley tailed off in the second half of their National League Two North opener last Saturday, losing 27-3.

"We got on the wrong side of the referee", admitted Otley's director of rugby Peter Clegg.

"We got two yellow cards in the second half (Ben Steele and Sam Cook) and, although I haven't seen the video and don't know what the penalty count was against us, it just shows how important the man in the middle is.

"But Sale, who had played the previous week against Lymm in the Cheshire Cup while we were idle, were the better team and deserved their win.

"Mind you it helps that they have such a close relationship with Sale Sharks that they can call on them when needed, but life is what it is, and we will be stronger this weekend and even stronger than that in six weeks' time."

Otley have been hit by pre-season injuries, but Clegg said: "We might have James Wood and James Mackie back on Saturday to face Wharfedale at Cross Green but the injuries to Jason Moss and Mike Coady are more long-term."

The match, which kicks-off at 2pm due to a pre-booked wedding reception, will coincide with the first chance that many spectators have had to look at the almost-complete new facilities at Otley RUFC, which have come in under budget.

The refurbishment includes a kitchen refit, adding new windows, doors and decor to the long room and completely renovating both the Hugh Barker Bar and Nigel Melville Suite.

There will also be a pitchside balcony, running the width of the clubhouse.

Clegg said: "Wharfedale are a fantastic club and it should be a fantastic occasion.

"If you can't can't get up for playing against Wharfedale then you shouldn't be playing."

Their last meeting in a competitive match was a thrilling Yorkshire Cup final at Wagon Lane at the end of the 2013-14, which Wharfedale won 34-29.

If Saturday's derby is half as good, the spectators won't feel short-changed.