Roughyeds coup as Marsden signs

HIGHLY-RATED young prop forward Ben Marsden has signed for Oldham Roughyeds, despite competition from Super League clubs Huddersfield Giants and Wakefield Trinity.

The 19-year-old former Oldham St Anne’s starlet has penned a two-year deal to follow in the footsteps of his father Bob, who began his professional career at Watersheddings before moving on to play for Rochdale, Salford and Huddersfield where he ended his career as a full-time professional.

Another link with the club’s past is provided by the club’s former Great Britain star Mick Worrall, who is Ben’s uncle.

“This is a real coup for us, given that we have been competing with Super League clubs to get Ben’s signature,” said Roughyeds chairman Chris Hamilton.

“He had been over to Huddersfield for talks and had also been training at Wakefield, who were keen to sign him.

“John Hough (reserve team coach) got a tip that he might be available so we spoke to Ben and his father and after two or three weeks of negotiations the signing was completed this week.”

Marsden was captain of the successful St Anne’s under-18s side last season and picked up several player-of-the-year awards. He also played three times for Lancashire under-19s, winning the man-of-the-match award on one occasion which led to a Wakefield scout inviting him to Belle Vue.

“Wakefield were keen to tie him up on a sort of trial basis,” said Bob. “But Chris (Hamilton) came straight in with a two-year offer and both Ben and I were impressed with Oldham’s approach and the professional manner in which they conducted the talks.

“We also took into account that Wakefield is getting on for a 100-mile round trip and to do that three or four times a week is a massive commitment.

“Finally, there is a lot to be said for signing for your home-town club, as I know from personal experience. I was as proud as punch when I did it, and I am just as proud for Ben now. It’s brilliant.

“I’m buzzing about it because he now has the opportunity to show what he can do at professional level in his home-town colours.”