TEAM NEWS
There are three changes to the starting line-up of the team that played last weekend. Nils Mordt replaces the injured (shoulder) Nick Greenstock at inside centre, Mark Mapletoft returns at fly-half having recovered from the knock he took in the game against Gloucester and Phil Murphy replaces Paul Gustard in the back row.
"Last Saturday at the Stoop we played most of the rugby, yet were the authors of our own downfall by making too many errors and conceded penalties," said Head Coach, Gary Gold. "We are looking for a major improvement this week against a talented Leeds Tykes team."
Leeds did the "double" over London Irish last season in the Premiership, winning 41-16 at Headingley in September and 26-14 at the Madejski Stadium in April. These are the Tykes' only two victories over the Exiles in five previous meetings in league and cup.
Irish have won back to back matches in Reading, over Bristol and Gloucester and are aiming for three in a row at home in the Premiership for the first time since April 2002.
It was back to winning ways for Leeds last Friday with a 23-13 victory over Rotherham in the "Yorkshire Derby", but the Tykes have slipped to four successive losses away from home in all competitions, their worst away slump for 18 months.
Development XV - Please note the 2nd Team will be playing against NEC Harlequins on Monday night at Sunbury, KO 19:30. The Team will be announced following the squad selection for the weekends match.
LONDON IRISH NIGHT AT WAXY O'CONNOR'S
London Irish has confirmed eight popular players will be visiting Waxy O'Connor's this Wednesday evening (1st, October) to enjoy the Craic at the bars second official London Irish night. Ireland international Justin Bishop heads an Irish contingent also featuring Bob Casey and Adrian Flavin. Canadian international Phil Murphy is looking forward to making his first appearance at a London Irish evening at Waxy's (14-16 Rupert Street) from 8pm and is joined by Rob Hoadley, Declan Dannaher, Matt Cannon and Ed Thrower.
The acclaimed Irish band Le Chéile, who play at Irish home matches, will be performing from 8pm. Free prize draws for signed rugby balls, merchandise and tickets for London Irish home matches will take place, and all prizes will be presented by the players at the end of the night.
Visiting supporters will be encouraged to start celebrating the Rugby World Cup early as Waxy's launch their World Cup programme, which includes the screening of matches throughout the duration of the tournament and competitions.
Waxy O'Connors
14-16 Rupert Street
London
Tel: 020 7287 0255
www.waxyoconnors.co.uk
Nearest tube station - Piccadilly Circus
NEW THIS SEASON - THE 'TOUCHLINE RESTAURANT'
To celebrate the launch of this brand new package we would like to offer customers a 20% discount on bookings for our home matches against Rotherham on 26th October and Newcastle on 23rd November!
We are delighted to confirm the opening of our new formal dining restaurant for selected matches throughout the 2003/2004 season. Enjoy a four course lunch in the comfortable surrounds of a superb new facility overlooking the pitch then step outside to your padded seat to take in the match. The package includes:
- Luxury seats in hospitality area
- Four course lunch
- Half-time refreshments
- Car parking facilities
- Private entrance
- Complimentary Match Programme
- Host/Hostess service
- Full cash bar facilities from midday until 6pm
Price per person: £95 inclusive of VAT
Please contact us for availability and bookings by calling 01932 750113 or 01932 750114 or e-mail us at abigail.findlay@london-irish.com or kelly.adey@london-irish.com
NEW MERCHANDISE (FOR OUR YOUNGER FANS)
The new Baby and Toddler range featuring our favourite mascot, Digger, is now available!
The Baby Romper Suit in home colours and Baby Sleepsuit in away colours both feature an embroidered Digger logo on the front. For daytime there are green moleskin dungarees (with long sleeve t-shirt), fleece sweatshirts and a jacket.
Visit the online shop to see the range!
IRISH DEALS
Why not visit this section in the London Irish website? London Irish has teamed up with various companies to offer our fans some of the best deals in cyberspace!
By purchasing from these companies, revenues will be generated which go towards the development of the Club. Visit the Irish Deals page, today. Future companies to provide offers are Action Images (Official Photographer for London Irish) and E-Drive, to name but a couple.
LONDON IRISH - MBNA OFFER
Kick the others into touch!
Be a true London Irish supporter and support your club in more ways than one! By applying for the London Irish MasterCard you can help us to strengthen your favourite team now and in the future - at no extra cost to you!
For more information visit the special MBNA site.
