Roughyeds up for big challenge

JOE GREENWOOD

OLDHAM RL Club battle it out with Super League outfit St Helens at Whitebank tonight (8pm) — and Roughyeds coach Tony Benson says his players are champing at the bit to face their international opponents.

For the visitors, England and Great Britain star Ade Gardner is joined by Chris Flannery and Josh Perry, both of whom have featured in State of Origin games.

The home outfit know they will be tested to the limit in what is only their second pre-season friendly — the Law Cup clash with Rochdale Hornets was cancelled after three postponements.

But Benson has noticed a spring in the step of his charges, who have a week’s training under their belts following last weekend’s 22-22 draw at Whitehaven, which saw them retain the SEAT Trophy.

He said: “There were a few sore bodies after the Whitehaven match, which is only natural considering it was the first rugby they had played in pre-season.

“But the lads have recovered well from that and training has gone very well this week.

“It goes without saying that they are all up for the challenge of facing some fantastic players in the Saints line-up.

“Competition is fierce for spots in our team so everyone wants to prove they are worthy of a starting place. I can give some of the newer players another run-out tonight.

“As a club we are very much looking forward to playing against St Helens tonight. The fact a number of high-profile Saints players are involved should help to make it a memorable occasion.

“Hopefully we can play our part in making it an enjoyable night for the supporters.”

There is sure to be plenty of local interest in the return to the area of St Helens duo Danny Yates and Joe Greenwood.

Yates (16), who operates at scrum-half, represented Waterhead at junior level and is now being shown the ropes at the Langtree Park side’s academy.

Team-mate Greenwood (18) worked his way through the ranks at Saddleworth Rangers.

He is the younger brother of James Greenwood, who plays for Super League club Wigan.

Greenwood has caught the eye for Saints in pre-season and will be looking to build on his recent progress.