Carry on the good work, says Deakin

RUGBY:
CHRIS Deakin wants more of the same from his Oldham St Anne’s side when they visit Castleford Panthers in National Conference League Division Two tomorrow.

Although disappointed with the two-point margin of defeat against leaders Normanton Knights last weekend, the Saints coach could not quibble with the level of performance.
“Make no mistake, Knights are a good side,” said Deakin, who can now call upon both the Best brothers after Jason joined David back at Higginshaw Road.

“They’ve got some good, young players and I can see them definitely going up.

“But we came within a fingertip of winning the game and we must remember that. If it was last season, we probably would have capitulated, but we are a different proposition now.”

Young John Deakin is out this weekend because of a thigh injury, and he will be replaced in the back row by Dominic Igoe, who is fit again after recovering from a shoulder problem.

Also missing for Saints is centre Terry Whalley.

In NCL Division One, Waterhead are gunning for a fourth league win of the season tomorrow.

Andy Sands’ men, who had to work hard to repel the spirited challenge of basement side Eccles six days ago, are at home to Milford Marlins.

Just two points separate the sides in the table, even though the visitors are second and Waterhead are eighth.

Meanwhile, Saddleworth Rangers will climb at least one place if they get the better of hosts Millom.