Happy to be in the Fold

SCOTT NAYLOR

THE players of newly-promoted Oldham will love testing themselves at championship level in their adopted home at Bower Fold in Stalybridge, said coach Scott Naylor after his first visit to the Tameside venue.

Impressed by Bower Fold’s facilities and upbeat at the prospect of the Roughyeds playing home games there in 2016, Naylor described Stalybridge Celtic’s ground as “homely, compact and the perfect fit for us.”

Accompanied by club chairman Chris Hamilton, League One’s 2015 coach of the year met Celtic staff yesterday and was given a guided tour of the stadium.

Naylor hopes Bower Fold will rock to the Roughyeds beat when teams like Bradford Bulls, Leigh Centurions, Sheffield Eagles, London Broncos, Halifax and Featherstone Rovers visit next season.

Covered on four sides and with a capacity of 5,200, (1,215 seats), Bower Fold will be well received by Oldham fans, said Naylor.

Added the Roughyeds team coach: “I was really pleased as we were shown around. It’s exactly what we wanted: a ground big enough for our needs, but one that will create a great atmosphere.

“The groundsman had reason to be proud of his pitch, which was flat, immaculately groomed and with a fantastic surface. My players are not used to a pitch like that. It will be a pleasure for them to play on it.

“They will love Bower Fold. Changing-room facilities are spot-on and there’s plenty of room.

“Facilities for home and away officials and sponsors are good and, most importantly, the ground is great for fans.”

After three warm-up games at Keighley, Rochdale (Law Cup) and Barrow - on January 10, 17 and 24 - Naylor’s men begin their Championship campaign at Bower Fold on February 7 against London Broncos.