Rib injury sidelines Spencer

JACK SPENCER

JACK Spencer, the Oldham forward, is expected to be out of action for three to four weeks with the rib injury he suffered at Toulouse Olympique.

"His injury is not as bad as we first feared," said coach Scott Naylor.

"There's nothing broken, it's more of a rib cartilage problem, but he's still going to be sidelined for a while.

"To come back from France with only one relatively serious injury is not bad going. It could have been a lot worse."

Roughyeds now have two props on the casualty list in Phil Joy and Spencer, plus another front-rower in Ben Davies, who didn't travel to France because of a calf strain.

It was thought Davies would be fit to replace Spencer against Swinton Lions at Bower Fold on Friday (3pm), but at training last night he was reported to be "still struggling a bit" and thus doubtful for the Lions game.

On a happier note, scrum-half David Hewitt was given the all-clear after playing much of the game in France in discomfort from a groin injury.

Naylor went on: "We're not sure at this stage about Ben Davies's prospects for Friday, but we've got players to come back in, like Gareth Owen, Scott Turner and George Tyson, and we'll still have the dual-reg facility.

"That gives me a strong base to work on as we strive to maintain our healthy home record."

Swinton also have injury worries concerning captain Andy Thornley and his fellow forward Anthony Bate, who picked up knocks in last Sunday's heavy defeat by Hull KR.

Matt Gardner, Matt Sarsfield, Rhodri Lloyd are all long-term victims.

* ORSA (Oldham Roughyeds Supporters Association) is inviting fans to Good Friday hospitality and pre-match buffet in the sponsors' lounge, including use of private pay bar, half-time refreshments and pre and post-match interviews and presentations.

Cost is £10 a head plus (for non season-ticket holders) admission to the game. To book ring John McAndrew on 07980129541 or Paul Hulbert on 07534329674.