Coates back in the fold

Michael Coates

SADDLEWORTH Rangers coach Emmerson Jackman has been handed a timely boost on the eve of his side’s eagerly-awaited derby at home to Waterhead.

Influential stand-off Michael Coates is available for the first time this season for tomorrow’s National Conference League Division One clash at Shaw Hall Bank Road (2.30pm).

And Rangers can also call upon former Oldham RL flyer Mark Brocklehurst, who is expected to slot in at centre.

Despite two defeats in as many league games and a Tetley’s Challenge Cup exit, Jackman says confidence is high in the camp.

He said: “I’ve told the players not to get too excited and try to treat it as a normal game even though it is a local derby.

“Waterhead have won a game this season in the league and are probably favourites, but that suits us.

“We just need to go out and prove ourselves, and Michael (Coates) could be the difference.

“He is the type of player, with all his experience, that others can learn from.”

While the input of Coates and Brocklehurst is a welcome tonic, Rangers have been hit by an injury to Jack Bradbury

The loose-forward is facing up to six weeks on the sidelines after dislocating a shoulder in the defeat by East Leeds. Paul Raftery (dislocated knee) is Rangers’ other long-term casualty.

Apart from Darren Nixon (dislocated shoulder), Jackman’s opposite number Andy Sands has a full-strength squad from which to choose his starting XIII.
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