THE pre-season game against Otley is probably the last visit that the Greens will pay to Cross Green.

Otley are soon to move down the road to a new ground. The move has been on the cards for a while and it is hoped to be happening this season. Otley may have slipped down a division at the end of the last meaningful season in 2019-2020 but have recruited well and are looking to come straight back up.

The relegation was harsh on Otley as with a handful of games to go they looked the most likely to avoid the drop.

Amongst the new recruits will be Luke Cole who played for Dale earlier in his career. They have had a good pre-season with wins against West Leeds and Hull Ionians.

A trip to Cross Green will be missed by many of the faithful as they were all there in 1979 to witness the North beating the All Blacks (the ground capacity was 56,000 that day). The ground had a fantastic atmosphere and Wharfedale wish Otley well in their adventure and hope to be in the same league next year.

Kick off is 3pm.

The Foresters fixture also takes place tonight (Thursday 19th); KO 7.30pm at the Avenue.