Ward lift for semi date

Michael Ward: all-clear to return.

Oldham’s tackle-busting prop Michael Ward has been cleared to play in Sunday’s iPro Sport Cup semi-final at Whitebank. The player was knocked unconcious at Barrow in the last round.

Ward didn’t play in the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup defeat by Sheffield Eagles, but trained normally last night after being examined by a doctor.

“He will be available for semi-final selection,” confirmed coach Scott Naylor as Roughyeds began their preparations for Sunday’s clash with North Wales Crusaders.

Ward was laid out when tackled high by Barrow’s Dan Toal 11 minutes into the second half. He was assisted off the field. Oldham got a penalty and Toal was placed on report, but the RFL took no further action.

Skipper Lewis Palfrey, who hurt a shoulder in the same game, suffered a recurrence in the Sheffield tie, but he is expected to lead the side as Roughyeds try to reach the final at Blackpool on May 23.

Naylor went on: “We’ll be monitoring his progress during the week and I’ll be surprised if he isn’t ready in time.”

Danny Langtree played his first game of the season with no adverse after-effects after time out with hamstring trouble