Sands is seeking final first

A WINNER as a player on seven occasions, Andy Sands is plotting his first Standard Cup triumph as a coach when his Waterhead side take on Rochdale Mayfield at Manor Park on Easter Monday (11.45am).

The outcome is too close to call — both teams are in the embryonic stage of the National Conference League Division One season — and much will depend on who is fit after tomorrow’s round of league games.

Sands, who is currently on the easy list after undergoing a shoulder operation last month, said: “To win the Standard Cup is a big thing for local clubs and players.

“It’s impossible to know at this point who is available, because obviously we’ll be giving it everything we’ve got against (Saddleworth) Rangers.

“The lads will be in on Sunday, so we should have a good idea then who is okay.”

Mayfield are the holders after sweeping aide Rangers 50-24 in the final 12 months ago.

Waterhead and Mayfield have each won one game in the league this season, but have contrasting build-ups to Monday’s showdown.

While the former are preparing for the short hop to Rangers tomorrow, Mayfield face the long trek to Cumbria, where Milford Marlins lie in wait — weather permitting.

WATERHEAD’S bid to win the Standard Cup, run by the Oldham Amateur League, is preceded by an over-35s masters clash between two sides made up of ex-players from local amateur clubs (kick-off 10.45am).

The player voted man-of-the-match will be awarded the Johnny Blair Memorial Trophy.

This is sponsored by Oldham Amateur League secretary Phil Bradbury and named in honour of the late Oldham RLFC player and former referee.

The new trophy will be presented by Johnny’s wife Linda and son Andy.