And what better way to get the 2005 Late Trains Cup (new sponsor - same outcome) than with a trip to our nearest and dearest mates at Swinton.

Indeed, if you ever had to pick another team to watch, The Lions would be a pretty good proposition. A former force in the game with a recent history of underachievement and struggle against the odds; brought back from the brink on repeated occasions and now stronger, more settled and enjoying a renaissance thanks to the efforts of a bunch of (blue) dyed-in-the-wool Swinton loyalists who never lost faith in their famous old club.

Sadly, their equally famous old ground is long gone and over a decade of exile from their hometown now sees them settled at Park Lane, Whitefield - only separated from their spiritual home by the swathe of the M62.

But from this distance it looks like a relationship that’s doomed to work! Having negotiated a long-term residency and a decent cut of bar and catering takings, Park Lane does have a ‘home’ feel to it and provides the sound foundation that will hopefully enable our most respected neighbours to grow and prosper.

The Lions are looking good for 2005. Under Rookie coach Paul Kidd, Swinton probably exceeded all expectations last season; making the playoffs before stumbling in a reckless points-fest to Workington Town.

And it’ll feel eerily familiar to the travelling Rochdalians on Sunday, with a good few familiar faces in Swinton’s ranks. Wes Rogers, Chris Irwin, Warren Ayres and Ian Sinfield have been joined by Ian Watson, Paul Southern, Mick Coates and Marlon Billy. They’ve also added Lee Marsh from Oldham and pacy threequarter Stuart Oldham from Saints.

Like Hornets, Swinton look much better than they did at this stage last year, having retained most of last season’s squad and strengthened in key positions.

With Bobbie’s squad looking in good shape too, it promises to be a cracking opener to the year. With Hornets tipped in the media as our group’s most likely winner, this is a great opportunity to throw down a marker and show NL1 that Hornets mean business from the off this season.

The successes of last season - on and off the field - have raised expectation levels to fever-pitch and Sunday provides a great opportunity to really build on the buzz around our club. Swinton’s only ten minutes down the motorway, so let’s get there in good numbers and show that lads that we’re ready for a big season too. As the National Cup goes, this fixture really does have a fizz of excitement about it, so make every effort to be there; wear your colours with pride; make some noise and have a great afternoon.

The facilities at Sedgely Park are excellent for a pre-match drinky too, so get there early and we’ll see you in the upstairs bar!

The serious business starts here. You’d be mad to miss it.