Take a break, lads

LEWIS Palfrey and the Roughyeds team have been given a week off to forget all about rugby before preparations begin for a final assault on the League One title.

With no game until the visit of promotion rivals Swinton Lions on September 6, Oldham boss Scott Naylor says it is crucial for his players to freshen up.

"Just getting away from me for a week will do them a world of good," he said, following the 28-12 win over Barrow Raiders that carried the side to a club record equalling 11 wins in a row.

"We've not had a break since the weekend of May 24 and with each successive win the pressure builds on the lads because everybody raises their game to try to knock us off our pedestal.

"That's a long time between breaks and for a few days at least they need to get right away from rugby and get away from me. I've told them they won't be hearing my voice for a bit because I will make a point of not ringing them.

"I can't speak too highly about these guys. They have been absolutely outstanding as a group, every one of them without exception. Their attitudes, work ethics, pride in performances and pride in the badges on their jerseys is reflected in the way they play and how they constantly challenge themselves as individuals and as a team. They deserve the highest praise and credit from everyone associated with the Oldham club.”

No injuries were reported after the Barrow bruiser and with Jack Holmes’s foot strain expected to be cleared soon, Naylor will have a fully-fit squad by the time Swinton come to Whitebank with the exception of Steven Nield, who is out for the season.