You can push us to glory - Naylor

NEW Oldham boss Scott Naylor has issued a “come and help us” plea to the town’s rugby league fans.

Naylor, at Oldham on a two-year contract, is determined to win promotion in his first year in charge and follow that by consolidating in the Championship.

The Roughyeds have spent six seasons in the sport's third tier, during which time both Steve Deakin and Tony Benson have lost their jobs because they failed to deliver the ultimate prize of promotion.

Now it's Naylor's turn, in his first job as the man in charge.

After a playing career filled with trophies and medals at the top level, he climbed through the coaching ranks in a Super League set-up at Salford City Reds, waiting for a chance to land a job as boss.

Now he's got, it he's bristling with enthusiasm.

"It's on my head now," he said, "And I'm looking forward to pressure and challenge. I firmly believe this is the season Oldham can get out of this division.

"It's high time the club was in the Championship, that's the least the club and its supporters deserve.

"But we need the fans to back us with everyone pulling in the same direction. I want the boys to enjoy their rugby and they'll enjoy it a whole lot more if they are winning and playing in front of good crowds."

Of the 19 players whose deals have been announced so far there are nine new signings and only five players who were first-team regulars last season.

Pre-season training starts next week and it will coincide with 2013 season tickets going on sale.

Added Naylor: "All clubs rely heavily at this time of year on income from season-ticket sales. Times are tough, but I hope supporters give serious consideration to backing the club this way.

"In return, I can give an assurance that the players will give everything they have to give on every play of every game. It could be the start of something big."