Ellison’s hopes derailed

DAVE ELLISON . . . “in a lot of pain.”

DAVE ELLISON, the Oldham RL prop, is doubtful for Sunday's Northern Rail Cup clash against Hunslet Hawks at Whitebank (3pm kick-off) because of an arm injury.

He hurt a forearm in training on Tuesday night and coach Tony Benson admits the former London Skolars man, one of his more experienced front-rowers, may have to miss the start of the 2011 campaign.

"Dave was in a lot of pain so we'll see how he is and if necessary give him until Saturday to prove his fitness," said Benson.

Back-row man Johnny Walker, who played in each of the club's three warm-up games, is definitely out with hamstring and lower back injuries.

But there is good news of full-back Ben Heaton, who suffered a groin injury in the Roughyeds' 50-0 SEAT Trophy drubbing of Whitehaven at Whitebank 12 days ago.

The injury has responded to treatment and Heaton is fit to face the side that finished top of Co-operative Championship One last season – three points more than second-placed Oldham – to win automatic promotion.

Benson is unlikely to name his 17 before Saturday morning when the squad will complete preparations before meeting the fans in Spindles between 10.30am and 12.30pm.