Davies comeback delayed

James Gordon

Oldham will be taking no chances on the fitness of prop Ben Davies when they face Swinton Lions at Bower Fold today in the first of their two Easter games.

A calf strain picked up in the 26-22 win against Bradford Bulls in the last home game cost the front-row forward a place in the 19 who were taken to France for the tough test at Toulouse Olympique.

It was thought the former Whitehaven prop might be ready in time to face the Lions, but after another assessment of his injury at training last night it was decided to put his comeback on hold.

“Another three days could make all the difference so, hopefully, Ben will see action again at Halifax on Monday,” said head coach Scott Naylor.

“I’ll be using every available player in the squad over the two games.”

Naylor confirmed there would be changes today from the 17 who played in France, but he won’t reveal his hand until an hour before the 3pm kick-off.