Tough test awaits

SCOTT Naylor wants a strong response

SCOTT Naylor's excellent Law Cup record - three wins from three, all away - will be challenged at Bower Fold on Sunday, January 22 (3pm kick-off).

It will be Rochdale's first appearance at the Stalybridge venue and it will be Oldham's first Law Cup home game for several years.

These traditional pre-season derby clashes, with silverware at stake, are always intense and competitive but the next one could be especially so, given that it might be the first of five games in which Oldham go face to face with their nearest and dearest in the next few months.

Additionally, Oldham could have six new players on show, while Hornets might field a similar number of former Roughyeds' players, including Lewis Palfrey, Gary Middlehurst and Josh Crowley.

"These games are always tough and this one will be no exception," said coach Naylor. "They constitute a different challenge every year because of the number of new players in both teams.

"It will be a good test for both clubs and it will give us both the opportunity to work on new combinations."

Admission prices: seats, adults £14; concessions £11, under-16s £3; standing, £12, £9, £2.

Oldham players report back for pre-season training next Tuesday, November 15.