Service Area hunt for local talent

RUGBY LEAGUE: THE CREAM of the town's young rugby league talent are to be given their chance to shine next week.

An under-18s Oldham Service Area trial is being held at the Whitebank Stadium, home of Oldham Roughyeds, on Wednesday, September 1 (registration at 6.30pm for a 7pm start).

Head coach John Hough and his assistant Mick Whaley will spend the evening running the rule over anyone who fancies a shot at making the Oldham Service Area squad.

Those chosen will then represent their town in an under-18s North-West festival being held at Hopwood Hall on Saturday, September 25.

There, the young players will go up against sides representing the towns of Rochdale, Salford, Wigan, Leigh, Widnes and St Helens among others.

Performances in the Hopwood festival will be taken into account when the selection of the Great Britain Community Lions squad is made, providing chances to tour abroad.

And with Hough also in charge of the Oldham Roughyeds reserves side, the trial is a perfect chance for talented young players to stake their claim for a chance in the club's second team for next season.

Info: RFL talent coach Steve Molloy on (0161) 7703051 or email steve.molloy@rfl.uk.com