2:43pm Friday 2nd July 2010
By David Hemming
NORTH Petherton is set to play host to an international rugby match between the England Lionhearts and the Welsh Dragons.
The Four Nations match, which will see the top amateur players from the two countries pitted against each other, will kick off at 2.30pm next Saturday.
As a curtain raiser to the prestigious fixture, the North Petherton-based Somerset Vikings will take on the North Devon Raiders at 12.30pm.
Club president Phil Ham said: “It is absolutely fantastic that not only are we now hosting Rugby League through the summer months which helps to both keep our union players fit and gives us a great spectator sport for the locals throughout the summer, but for the Vikings to be selected as host for an international fixture is great for the Vikings and North Petherton rugby overall.”
There was even more cause for celebration as Somerset Vikings player Jack Claydon was selected for the England Lionhearts squad to face Scotland Bravehearts on June 12. He even scored a try in the first minute.
Chris Richards, Vikings head coach and former Lionheart, said: "I’m really pleased for Jack to be selected to represent England, he has worked hard for his place in the team and we all wish him the very best in representing England.
“I am also delighted that we have been selected to host the game here at our new home at North Petherton.
“Only a few years ago Somerset Vikings was the only club in the South-West, and furthest south club in the country.
“There are now over eight clubs in the South-West and we have had several England representatives over the last few years.”
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