Competition for places in strong squad

Craig Farrimond

RUGBY: 

A PROMISING build-up to the new season has prompted coach Craig Farrimond to predict a bright future for his Saddleworth Rangers side.

The 32-year-old former Oldham RL, Rochdale Hornets and Swinton prop believes the Shaw Hall Bank Road club is even capable of mounting a promotion challenge.

“We’re all ready and raring to go,” said Farrimond (32), whose Rangers team kicks-off seven days earlier than local rivals Oldham St Anne’s and Waterhead Warriors.

“It is going to be tough trying to select a team this weekend. I’ve got 21 players to choose from. Last season we conceded points late on, which cost us games. We’ve looked at that.

“Promotion is definitely the aim, even though we only finished fourth-bottom last season. We’ve got good strength in depth and I know if a player is disappointed to be left out one week, he’ll respond to it by working harder in training the next. That is what I want.”

In advance of a trip to Salford City Roosters on Saturday, one player impressing Farrimond is Ali Hassan.

“Ali has really caught the eye in pre-season and will be rewarded with a place on the bench this weekend,” enthused the Rangers coach.

“He’s only 16, but is 6ft 3in and 16 stone. He is a front row forward with lots of promise and deserves his chance. He’s raw, but he’s willing to be educated.”

Farrimond also can’t wait to watch half-back pairing Josh Bradbury and Ben Whitehead in tandem.

Whitehead excelled in the recent Standard Cup semi-final clash against Oldham St Anne’s, producing a faultless kicking display in a 21-8 victory.

“They will have a big part to play,” said Farrimond. “They are young, but have taken a lot of responsibility on board.”



SADDLEWORTH Rangers and holders Rochdale Mayfield will meet in the 2015 Napier Windows Standard Challenge Cup final, at Oldham Rugby Union Club’s Manor Park on Good Friday, April 3 (kick-off 11.45am).

Mayfield booked their place with a resounding 36-0 win over Folly Lane, while Rangers went through with a 21-8 success against Oldham St Annes.