Oldham relishing Law Cup challenge in January

Oldham RLFC

Oldham are relishing the prospect of having a crack at regaining the Law Cup from derby rivals Rochdale Hornets at the Crown Oil Arena on Sunday 7 January.

The eagerly-awaited clash which will give Roughyeds fans an early glimpse of new players Paul Crook, Luke Nelmes, Danny Rasool, Dave Eccleston, Matt Reid, Jack Holmes, Liam Bent, Kyran Johnson and Adam Jones.

Oldham head coach Scott Naylor said: "The Law Cup is always a very important test for both clubs and both sets of fans. It is classed as a friendly, but that is the last thing it is. It is a typical derby and there is a lot of prestige at stake - just ask the fans.

"It will be a stern challenge very early in our pre-season programme. I am really pleased it is on the agenda.

"Rochdale won the cup last year and we would love to take it back off them. They are a Championship side so we expect a very tough challenge, but it is one we are really looking forward to."

Naylor said that of the three players who were recovering from operations at the end of last season, only hooker Gareth Owen would still be on rehabilitation in January.

He added: "Danny Langtree and Phil Joy are back in full training with the squad. They are fully fit now and they will be ready for the Law Cup. 'Gaz' Owen is still working out with the physios, but everything is going well for him. "

Pre-season programme:

• Sunday 7 January: Rochdale Hornets v Oldham (3pm, Crown Oil Arena)
• Sunday, 21 January: Barrow Raiders v Oldham (2pm, Craven Park)
• Sunday, 28 January: Oldham v Keighley Cougars (3pm, Vestacare Stadium).

Naylor added: "Getting back into Oldham has gone down well with the fans and we want to make sure our home form is solid all season.

"It was important we had a home friendly so that players and supporters can get used to the Vestacare Stadium, which has changed since we last played there."