GARY Evans has taken over the captaincy of Northwich RUFC.

The club, still reeling from the death of previous skipper Shaun Bennett, returns to South Cheshire/Lancashire Division One action at Aspull on Saturday (2.30pm).

Prop Jan Cartman has been named as Evans' vice-captain, while club chairman Sam Naylor is hoping the start of 2001 brings more luck than the end of 2000.

He said: "We're looking forward to a strong second half of the season as we did last season when we came good towards the end and we're hoping to do the same.

"We want to put the tragedy of Shaun Bennett behind us and the team spirit is good. Aspull have already beaten us at our place this season, but coach Andy Manicom is hoping to make up for it."

Northwich 2nds and 3rds are also facing Aspull on Saturday, both at home.