It’s all in the planning for Roughyeds

Oldham are looking ahead to the possibility of another grand final showdown in October, after being disappointed play-off fianlists last year.

This year's Kingstone Press Championship finals day is at Headingley on October 5 – a date Roughyeds' coaching staff will have very much in mind over the next few weeks.

"The build-up has already started," said assistant boss Lee Spencer who, as Scott Naylor's right-hand man, plays a major role in getting players physically and mentally prepared for each game.

Defensive systems used for the first time in the 38-10 hammering of Hemel were part of a new seven-week training programme.

"The way we train has been changed a bit and that's designed to bring out the best in us over the next seven weeks," said second-row forward Josh Crowley.

"We've got some massive games coming up, including the two leading up to the play-offs, and we are asking fans to get behind us.

"We have got as good a chance as any other team to make it to the final and if we did we would do all in our power to make amends for last year's disappointment.

"A few of us were nervous last year. I know I choked a bit. But we'll be better for the experience."

The 22-year-old former Widnes forward has played in each of Oldham's 44 games since he signed for the club at the start of last season.

"I've been lucky not to get serious injuries, but to be honest I'm nearly always carrying knocks. They're part of the game," he said.

"I can't recall ever missing a competitive game since I first became a professional."

Oldham hope to get RFL clearance for Edwin Okanga-Ajwang to be eligible for any of the remaining games this season.