THE unique nature of this year’s National Conference League season means coming up against sides you would not normally face.

That is the case for Woolston Rovers this weekend as they welcome Rochdale Mayfield to Monk Sports Club on Saturday.

To minimise travel as the game resumes amid continuing Covid restrictions, teams have been placed into regional leagues.

Mayfield are an established Premier Division outfit and one of the country’s leading amateur clubs while 2020 was set to be Rovers’ first in Division Two having won promotion the previous year.

Nevertheless, head coach Mal Holt is determined to give them a stern test as the Green and Golds aim to build on last week’s win at neighbours Crosfields.

“To play as we did last week considering the length of time we have been without playing was exceptional,” he said.

“But we know that we can improve in certain areas and that is what myself and (assistant coach) Rob Campbell will be working on this week.

“It is a great opportunity for us to come up against a side like Mayfield and we are determined to go out there and give them a tough game.

“If we can play to our strengths and respect the ball then we will be difficult opponents for them.”

Meanwhile, Crosfields will be looking to bounce back from their loss to Rovers when they make the short trip to Clock Face Miners on Saturday.

Both League C games kick off at 2.30pm.