Clark issues rallying cry over Scorpions’ poor home form

South Wales Scorpions coach Dave Clark has called on his side to repeat their impressive away form in front of their own supporters, starting this Sunday as they host the Rochdale Hornets.

They have won three out of three on the road so far in 2013, but have so far failed to chalk up a single win at The Gnoll.

And with this match being the last home tie before the doors shut until June 16 (due to annual treatment of the Neath pitch), Clark wants to leave their home fans purring ahead of four road trips in succession.

“It’s going to be a good test for us,” he said ahead of the match. “Rochdale are a very competitive side and we know them from last year after we beat them at home before they won well at their place.”

“Our fans find it difficult to travel to away matches in big numbers so they haven’t seen us perform well this year. Home games are really important as they help us build our support. If we start doing well at home, I’m sure our gates will increase and that will benefit us as a club.”

He will have a strong side to select from on Sunday. Haydn Peacock returns from a two-month injury lay-off, some of their Wigan Warriors dual registration players are available, and new loan signing, Den Davies from Widnes Vikings, is in contention.

Rochdale are likely to travel without Dave Sutton, who injured his shoulder while scoring against Bradford Bulls last week.

Coach Ian Talbot said: “I was very pleased with our effort and enthusiasm against the Bulls. We were always on a hiding to nothing, but we stuck to our principles and kept trying to play.”

He added of their weekend’s apponents: “They’re definitely a dangerous team. Their two half-backs have been playing well and are very influential.

“We’re looking after ourselves by travelling down on Saturday, so hopefully the journey won’t make too much of an impact.

“The club that manages the travelling and the performances afterwards will be the one that does well this year, because there is a lot of travelling in [the division].”

The Scorpions Under-20s also take on Rochdale Hornets this weekend, but away from home. The two sides meet on Saturday at Rochdale Mayfield RLFC (kick-off 5pm).

They are yet to win this season, but came close last Saturday, losing 38-36 to Halifax after being 10 points up with 10 minutes remaining.