COMING off a great comeback win against Preston Grasshoppers, Wharfedale coach John Feeley will lead the Greens into a big match against Stourbridge at the Avenue this Saturday.

The Greens have now won two games on the bounce after they narrowly defeated Preston 15-14 at the weekend.

Feeley said: "It was a more difficult game than the week before, in that we were away from home and playing in terrible conditions.

"It was a real test for us and we showed outstanding character to come back after a first half where we got drawn into their gameplan of reacting to off the ball incidents.

"In the end, we rightly came back to win the game and showed that this team can beat anyone."

The game, which featured five former Wharfedale players in the Preston team, brought out a lot of passion from the Greens' faithful, players and coaches.

Even Feeley, who described himself as a "reserved" person who "likes to lead by example", was not exempt from show his emotions.

When Harry Bullough ran to the line for Wharfedale's second try, Feeley said: "I think I followed him halfway down the touchline."

He also said Wharfedale's supporters played a huge role in helping the Greens through the game.

"We took a tremendous following over," said Feeley. "A number of our supporters were vocal than theirs and we needed that encouragement to take the game."

Feeley was also full of praise for George Hedgley, who made his 100th appearance for Wharfedale, only the 31st player to accomplish the feat.

Hedgley has been filling as team captain for most of the season, as Richard Rhodes, who was selected to lead the side at the start of the season, worked his way from injury and regained his fitness.

"George has done superbly in the role, and he led from the front on Saturday," said Feeley. "We've got leadership in this team that is truly building."

This Saturday's opponent, Stourbridge, are coming off a narrow 7-3 win against league leaders Hull Ionians at the weekend.

"They will be a great test for us at home," said Feeley. "To allow Hull only three points shows they have a improved defence."

Feeley said Stourbridge, who beat Wharfedale 37-27 earlier in the season, have a "particularly large back row who are strong ball carriers in the middle of the pitch".

"They also have quick backs, but they tired easily as our fitness levels were higher than theirs."

Going into the game, the Greens will welcome back Matt Houghton, who served a one-match ban last week.

James Tyson will face a fitness test on his leg injury and Feeley said the hard-charging Chris Walker will once again have to be "pieced back together."

The match the Avenue kicks off at 2pm this Saturday.