Super League trio return

HEAR THIS . . . Keith Brennan (pictured) and Jon Perks take the reins at Waterhead

WATERHEAD Warriors have welcomed back three players from Super League as they gear up for the new season.

Kegan Brennan, Josh Whitehill and Liam Leach are all back in the fold at Waterhead Park after the decision by Salford Red Devils to close their under-19s team.

And with assistance for joint coaches Jon Perks and Keith Brennan - who combine duties with the current under-18s and first team - from player-coach Matthew Barran and ex-player Stuart Conway, the feeling is that the closer integration will pay dividends in the upcoming Kingstone Press National Conference League Divison Three campaign.

"In the past, the feeling among some of the players who finish playing for the under-18s is that it can be a bit daunting making the transition to the open-age dressing room where there are some big personalities," said Perks.

"But in training together now, they get used to their company and it should hopefully make for an easier transition.

"The under-18s side this year has been together since six years of age and has enjoyed a lot of success. They have never been beaten in the Oldham Cup since under-11s, won the Lancashire Cup last year and the league the year before."

A certain former Oldham, Leeds and Great Britain star has also been readying the troops. And close-season moves appear to have benefited the squad's strength, following on from last season's finish of third-bottom in Division Three.

Moving to Peach Road from Saddleworth Rangers are trio Matthew Fogarty, Dale Lowe and Scott Wynn - all three former Waterhead juniors who have returned to their roots.

In from Oldham St Anne's is Sean Garrett and overall, the vibes coming out of the club as a result of the new collaborative approach appear to be positive heading into the 2017 campaign.

"There is a little bit of a feelgood factor about the place with Tommy Howe in as our chairman," said Perks.

"At any one time, there can be four or five coaches at sessions and it's a major help. We have the experience of Keith Brennan and Barrie McDermot."