Local teams aiming high

CHRIS HOUGH

A PAIR of wins for Saddleworth Rangers and Oldham St Anne’s would see both local sides take top spot in their respective National Conference League divisions this weekend.

Rangers lost their unbeaten division one record due to a 26-12 defeat at Castleford Panthers last week, a performance which was slightly flat according to coach Keith Brennan.

But the second-placed Panthers are without a fixture this week, giving Saddleworth the opportunity to stretch the lead at the top to four points — provided fourth-placed Myton Warriors are beaten at Shaw Hall Bank Road tomorrow (2.30pm kick off).

“We have got two games now before a week off, so we need to keep our momentum going,” said Brennan.

“Last week we didn’t play as well as we can, but the lads know that themselves and I am sure they will be going out to make up for it.”

ST ANNE’S were without a fixture last week, allowing Castleford Lock Lane to sneak above them at the top of division two.

But it is the Castleford side’s turn to have a rest tomorrow, while Saints play Crosfields at Higginshaw Road in the knowledge that a point or more would take them back to the summit.

“It is a bit early to be reading too much into the league table but of course it is nice to be up there,” said Saints coach Mick Cashin.

“We had a week off last week which was a double-edged sword for us. One the one hand we wanted to keep our momentum going, but on the other it has given us a chance to get over our bumps and bruises.”

St Anne’s are close to full strength, though Andy Wallace (knee) is a long-term absentee.

WATERHEAD coach Mick Slicker will warn his men of the dangers of reading too much into the league standings before his side take on East Leeds away from home tomorrow (2.30pm).

Last week Eastmoor travelled to Waterhead Park having won only one from five in division two, but came away with a 34–26 victory after out-enthusing the home side.

“There are no easy games in the league and you have to play what is in front of you,” said Slicker, ahead of the clash with the team currently second from bottom of the division.

Waterhead will be without half-back Chris Hough, who twisted a knee on his first start following a return from the professional ranks last week.

Mick Diveney (shoulder), Scott Frost (knee) and Craig Highton (elbow) also provide injury concerns.

The good news is that Will Schofield (knee) came through the game last week with no problems.