Marc’s mission to eclipse idol

Marc Sneyd: hoping to put one over on his cup final rival Kevin Sinfield

MARC Sneyd has almost 11 years on his rival Kevin Sinfield - but is aiming to land a prize tomorrow that has so far eluded his idol.

The 23-year-old half-back from Shaw has been a revelation for Castleford Tigers, this season.

The player, who is heading to Hull FC at the end of the campaign, badly wants to mark the biggest day of his career by collecting a Challenge Cup winners’ medal at the end of tomorrow’s final against Sinfield’s Leeds Rhinos at Wembley.

“Kevin is an outstanding player, and not just for Oldham,” said Sneyd. “He is an idol all over the world and everything he has achieved is outstanding.”

Tomorrow’s clash could come down to which of them kicks best. Sinfield is well versed in landing goals under all kinds of pressure, while Sneyd’s unusual style has yet to be tested in the Wembley hothouse.

But Castleford haven’t gained the same Super League points tally as Leeds this season by being soft touches.

“We have got a fair bit of experience in there, which will help people like myself,” Sneyd said. “It is a huge game for both sides, particularly as it has been a while since both have lifted the trophy.

“On top of that, it’s a huge derby as well, a massive game in West Yorkshire.”

Sneyd follows a proud tradition of players to emerge from the talent hotbed at Waterhead.

Old boys currently playing the game at the highest level also include Eamon O’Carroll of Widnes, St Helens centre Jordan Turner and Salford hooker Gareth Owen, currently out on loan with Oldham.

England RU starlet George Ford also learned the basics of the game at the Peach Road club, which famously shaped the talent of former Great Britain captain Paul Sculthorpe.

“For a little club from Oldham to have three players in the final is fantastic,” said Waterhead secretary Simon Holland. “We are over the moon, particularly for Marc and Lee who are experiencing it for the first time.”

Sneyd’s father Jeff coached his son in the town team in his younger days and has arranged for a coach to travel to Wembley in support.