Calveley ready to go to war at Sleaford, and then have a pint with them

Lincoln skipper James Calveley says his side are expecting a very unfriendly reception from the Sleaford supporters when the county rivals clash at the David Williams Pavilion tomorrow.

Calveley's improving side travel to Ruskington Road tomorrow intent on earning a second consecutive derby victory after beating Grimsby 44-5 at the Lindum last week.

But if previous clashes are anything to go by, Calveley says it will be a hostile environment as the Lincolnshire rivals run out on the pitch.

"It's always a battle at Sleaford," he said. "And as soon as their supporters know that it is Lincoln coming to town, they will be streaming down to the ground.

"There will be a large and very noisy crowd. They are very supportive of their side and I quite expect them to be hurling abuse at us during the game – which is nice.

"But as soon as the match is over. They will be shaking hands with us and joining us for a drink in the bar.

"It's that kind of fixture, it's a nice place to go and play rugby overall.

"The pitch and the facilities there are very good and it usually provides for an entertaining game.

"I don't know if I should say this, but in recent years, I think we have been slightly the better side, or at least maintaining a higher place in the league table, so they will be determined to take us down a peg or two.

"Traditionally, when we play Sleaford, we seem to win the games at our place and they seem to win at their's.

"This season, though, I am hoping to change that tradition and turn things around so that we can do the double over them."

For more on this story see today's Lincolnshire Echo.