Coaches shy away from the spotlight

SHOWING THE SHIELD: Scott Naylor (left) with his assistant Lee Spencer (right) and Oldham chairman Chris Hamilton.

COACH Scott Naylor and his assistant Lee Spencer tried hard to let their players take centre stage when Oldham received the league leader’s trophy at Oxford yesterday.

It was the first piece of significant silverware for Oldham RLFC (1997) Ltd - and the first for Naylor’s career as a head coach.

He, Spencer and chairman Chris Hamilton know the season will be judged not by finishing top but by the result of next Sunday’s promotion final with Keighley Cougars at Whitebank.

Even so, Naylor wanted his players to enjoy their celebrations with supporters after Lewis Palfrey received the trophy from Dr Paul Morgan, the RFL president.

Said Naylor: “These lads have put in a phenomenal effort since the second week, in November when they started pre-season training. I’ve not had a moment’s stress or trauma with them, either individually or as a group. They’re a dream to work with.

“In all my playing and coaching career I’ve never known as much harmony as there is here. We are all friends. The lads battle for each other as genuine mates and that team spirit has been a massive factor in our performances and our results.

“We’ve won 19 out of 22 and there was only 40 minutes in the whole season when I felt we didn’t have a go. We’ve now won 13 on the run to finish top, so these lads have plenty to celebrate. They should stand proud. To finish top of the league, no matter at what level, is a huge achievement down entirely to their attitude, ability, professionalism and commitment.”