Benson delays naming skipper

TONY Benson is keeping an open mind as to who will skipper Oldham RL Club this season.

Back-row man Paul Smith led Roughyeds in last month’s 22-22 SEAT Trophy draw in Cumbria and the impressive 28-18 home victory over St Helens at Whitebank.

But Neil Roden and Paul Noon, who both captained the team last term, remain in contention, while Benson has also refused to rule out all three players sharing the role.

He said: “I am fortunate to have Paul Smith here because he is the most senior player in the squad now, with Super League and coaching experience.

“I am nowhere near making a final decision yet for the simple reason that last year’s captains, Neil and Paul, have not played yet in this pre-season.

“They both did a good job in the last campaign. I need to observe all the candidates in a match situation to see their differences, then I can choose.

“It could be that all three men have a role. This is not something that needs to be rushed by any means. It is just about making the right choice.”

Meanwhile, Benson was delighted to welcome new signing Paul Ballard into the fold this week.

The 27-year-old winger has penned a 10-month deal at Whitebank and could make his debut in Sunday’s friendly at Featherstone Rovers (3pm kick-off).

“I coached Paul when he was a young guy at Leigh, and back then I could see his potential. It is fair to say he has come a long way since then,” added Benson.

“He was a very good player for us even in those early years and it was clear that if the hard work continued, he would carve out a successful career.

“That is exactly what happened as he ended up playing in the Super League with Celtic Crusaders.

“He is a good signing for us. We are lucky to have him on board because he has played at the highest level, scored plenty of tries and is rapid.

“But he is not just about the pace and skill. He is a tough player and the ultimate professional.”