Amateurs return to action

RUGBY LEAGUE:

SADDLEWORTH Rangers, Oldham St Anne’s and Waterhead return to National Conference League action tomorrow, weather permitting.

Saints, who are away to Ince Rose Bridge in Division One, haven’t played since November 20 through a mixture of the Arctic nap and the festive break.

Coach Mick Cashin said: “Everybody is in the same boat. We’ve used the gym to keep ticking over, so it hasn’t been too bad.”

Cashin cannot finalise team plans for this weekend’s match as some players may be missing because of work commitments.

Definitely absent are Gary Rafferty — the full-back is out for the season with a cruciate injury — and second-row man Dominic Igoe, who is recovering from a knee problem.

Rangers, 11th in the Premier Division, face a tough task.

Keith Brennan’s side visit title-hopefuls Siddal, who are just two points behind leaders Thatto Heath Crusaders.

Waterhead are also in for a taxing afternoon in Division Two.

The Peach Road outfit, who are lying near the foot of the table, are at fifth-placed Elland.