Spencer ruled out of Lions cup tie

Date published: 22 February 2018


Jack Spencer, injured in Oldham's 14-0 win at Whitehaven, won't be fit for Sunday's clash with Yorkshire amateurs Featherstone Lions in the third round of the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup at the Vestacare Stadium (3pm kick-off).

The former Barrow and Halifax forward left the field at the Recreation Ground early in the second half, clutching an elbow.

He didn't train on Tuesday night when further examination revealed the elbow had been forced back against the joint.

"It's nothing serious, but he won't be available this weekend," confirmed coach Scott Naylor.

"It's not long since he did it and we'll have a better idea when it's settled down."

Spencer appeared to be the only injury victim from a rugged forward battle in the Cumbrian mud so Roughyeds will be looking to field a strong side against a Lions outfit that has downed pro opposition in the past  and will be going flat out to do it again.

By signing all three of their trialists from NCL premier division club Siddall, near Halifax - Zack McComb, Ben West and Joe Martin - Roughyeds have strengthened their back division while taking the number of players they have under contract to 24.

For the time being at least, that would appear to signal the end of signing activity, given that Naylor also has the back-up of a dual-reg agreement with Salford Red Devils.

"I'm very happy with the size and quality of the squad now and I wouldn't expect to be bringing in any more players at the present time," he said.