Oldham young stars excite Roden

NEIL Roden believes the emergence of exciting young prospects hold the key to the long-term success of Oldham RL Club.

The Roughyeds captain feels the likes of Jamie Dallimore and Alex Thompson can play a big part in this season’s Co-operative Championship One promotion push.

And he has challenged the next batch of promising youngsters to force their way into Tony Benson’s first team over the next couple of years.

Roden said: “It is always great to see lads work their way through the ranks, and a couple have joined us from the reserves.

“The likes of Alex and Jamie can make a difference and have a say in how successful our challenge for promotion is this season.

“They have looked good in training and during the pre-season build-up, so there is no reason why they cannot have a big impact. I honestly think this is the way to go, looking at the long-term.

“When players are at the club for years and progress to the first team it means so much to them. In many cases they also grew up in or live in the Oldham area so they have an affinity for the place.

“For the club it makes good sense as well, because it saves money in this tight financial climate.”

Roden goes along with the general consensus that if the Roughyeds are to finally secure an escape route out of the division, this is the season in which to do it, with four promotion places on offer.

He added: “We cannot settle for anything less than a top-four position — although I realise virtually every club will say the same.

“It won’t be easy because a lot of sides have strengthened. The likes of Barrow, Whitehaven and Workington will be right up there at the end of the campaign but you also cannot rule out Rochdale.

“I cannot see one team running away with it at the top. But our goal is clear.”

Meanwhile, Roden was delighted to be awarded the captain’s armband - but insists it is going to be a team effort. He will wear it on Sunday when Oldham open up against Workington.

“It is an honour to captain your club. I have done it on and off in the last couple of years but to be given the role at the start of the season is great,” he said. “But the good thing about our squad is the fact we have quite a few leaders. We will all play a part.”