League 1: Rochdale welcome back Wigan youngster for second spell

Steven Hughes
Rochdale Hornets

Rochdale Hornets have announced Wigan forward Ben O’Keefe has returned to the League 1 club on a two-week loan deal.

The forward, who plays in the second row, previously made a good impact at the Crown Oil Arena. He scored three tries in three games in his previous spell.

This includes a two-try haul on his debut against Hunslet. He also featured in their derby win over Oldham earlier this year.

O’Keefe is expected to go straight into the squad for Sunday’s game at Midlands Hurricanes.

Reacting to the news, Hornets chairman Andy Mazey told the club website: “Ben performed really well for us, in his first stint at the club, so it’s brilliant to be able to bring him back on loan.

“He’s a player who knows what Hornets are all about, so we’re very grateful to Wigan for allowing him to sign.”

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Last week, Rochdale claimed their eighth win of the season with a 32-24 victory away to Hunslet. Gregg McNally, Aiden Roden, Rob Worrincy, Zac Baker, Paul Brearley and Cobi Green all scoring.

Swinton continue their impressive season and scored 48 points in the capital against London Broncos for a 48-22 score. Mike Butt, Mitch Cox, Jayden Hatton, Max Roberts, Dan Abram and Richard Lepori all scoring, while forward Paddy Jones crossed for a brace.

Allan Coleman’s side sit second in the league table, four points behind the leaders.

Finally, North Wales Crusaders fell to their third defeat of the season. Visiting Doncaster claimed a 26-18 victory at Colwyn Bay. The Welsh outfit threatened a potential comeback in the second half, but Richard Horne’s side held on.

Doncaster scoring through Ben Johnston, Dave Peterson, Robbie Storey and Tom Halliday.

In the first game this week, Cornwall fell to a 36-24 defeat at home to Hunslet. Neil Kelly’s side were leading 12-0 in the first half, but could not back up last week’s maiden victory at West Wales.

League 1: Cornwall RLFC record historic first win & Keighley continue unbeaten run