Roughyeds release trio

BIG prop Michael Cadd has been released by Oldham RL Club in reserve team coach John Hough's mid-season shake-up of his under-23s squad.

Hooker Austen Barrowclough and utility man Stephen Lynch have also left the Roughyeds following Hough's review of the second team.

“The squad this year is the strongest we've ever had," he said.

“New players are always wanting to be given an opportunity to show what they can do.

“I have had to take into account that some players have not progressed as well as I would have liked over the past two years.

“Tough decisions have to be made sometimes and it was felt that it was in the best interests of the players concerned to give them an opportunity to look for openings elsewhere.

“On behalf of the club I would like to thank them for their contributions and wish them well in the future.”

Back-row forward Mark Smith, a reserve-team stalwart for three seasons, is also leaving because his job and his studies are taking him to America.

“In Mark’s case it was his decision," said Hough, "and as he doesn't leave for the USA for another four weeks he might get a farewell appearance.”

Winger Anthony Bingham, who signed Oldham pro forms three years ago, has made a surprise return to the club after a long stay in Australia.

Thatto Heath hooker Kenny Hayes (19), who will play in Saturday's amateur cup final against Siddal, has also signed for Hough after making several appearances this year in the St Helens under-20s squad.

Another Oldham new boy, 17-year-old Ashton RU winger Curtis Strong, is training with the reserves although he will make his debut in the Roughyeds’ scholarship side next month.

Prop Dave Cookson, who has joined Hough’s squad from Oldham St Anne's, has been named in a National Conference rep side to play a French select side next month.

The reserves’ next game is at Keighley (7.45pm kick off) tomorrow week, Thursday, June 2.