Rangers in pursuit of play-offs

RUGBY LEAGUE: WITH four games to go, Saddleworth Rangers still have plenty to play for in the National Conference League Premier Division.

Keith Brennan’s side, who are at home to mid-table rivals West Hull tomorrow, can reach the top-six play-offs. However, they can also go down, such is the tight nature of the division.

Meanwhile, Rangers chairman Terry Flanagan has reiterated his club’s support for the proposed switch to a summer, March to November season from 2012.

“The move to summer rugby is necessary in the view of our club and a massive opportunity to take the game to a different level and resolve different issues," the former Great Britain international said.

“There is a long list of benefits which include commercial and economic advantages for clubs as costs will decrease and the income generated from events will be greater. According to our model there will be a 50-per-cent increase for our club finances.

“Playing standards will increase and looking long-term there will be better quality, more able younger players produced.”

The vote takes place on Monday.



BUOYED by their first away win of the season in NCL Division One, Oldham St Anne’s play host to second-bottom Stanningley tomorrow.
Despite victory at Castleford Panthers last weekend, the threat of relegation still hangs over Mick Cashin’s Saints.


WATERHEAD are also at the wrong end of Division Two — they are third from bottom — so maximum points are vital from their trip to West Bowling, who are a place above them in the table.

SADDLEWORTH Rangers under-16s will clinch successive North-West Counties League titles if they defeat visitors West Bank Bears on Sunday (11.45am kick-off).