Naylor’s salute to new boys

Oldham RL boss Scott Naylor was full of praise for squad new faces Danny Whitmore and Jon Ford after an impressive 30-12 win at Hemel Stags.

Whitmore, on loan from Batley Bulldogs to fill the hole left by Jamie Dallimore’s release, made his debut in a new half-back pairing with skipper Lewis Palfrey.

Ford, a 19-year-old centre from Salford City Reds, played inside Dale Bloomfield on dual registration and was largely instrumental in the winger’s hat-trick.

Naylor said: “Whitmore hadn’t played for a few weeks, but he went straight in at the deep end in a key pivotal role and had a very good game.

“Palfrey, the other half, had one of his best games, controlling proceedings and playing what was in front of him. We took him off near the end when he got cramp, but it was merely a precaution — certainly nothing to worry about.

“As for Ford, he sent Bloomfield in for two tries and the quality and timing of his pass, plus his ability to create space, was very impressive.”

Roughyeds are in fifth place with two wins away and two defeats at home, but if they were to win their game in hand they would go second behind North Wales Crusaders thanks to two bonus points and the second best defensive record in the division.

Their next game is against Gateshead Thunder at Whitebank on Sunday week, May 26 (3pm)