Oldham anticipate Sheffield reaction

Correspondent

Oldham head into this home game against Sheffield Eagles boosted by a fine win over Batley Bulldogs last week.

Second row Danny Langtree, hooker Adam Files and half back Danny Grimshaw are also available for selection again.

“The bounce of the ball went our way but we probably got what we deserved,” said Roughyeds coach Scott Naylor.

“We had all 17 lads playing at a high level and all gave 100 per cent. I don’t think it’s rocket science that if you do that, then you’re in with a chance.

“Sheffield played really well against Bradford. They’ve had a bit of a mixed season and there’s a few of our old lads playing for them, so I’m sure they’ll come fired up and ready on Sunday.

“Our starting platform for every game should be the 100 per cent thing and then let’s see what happens.”

Meanwhile, Sheffield coach Mark Aston remains frustrated by his team’s inconsistency so far this season.

The Eagles lost to Featherstone and Dewsbury over Easter, but then turned in a fine performance to win 46-28 win at Bradford last week.

“We’re in the big games but letting ourselves down in the other games. We’re trying to address that, we can’t just turn up and expect to win,” he said.

“We’ve got a team with 11 new players and it’s going to take a little bit of time no doubt about it.

“What you need is the senior players to guide you through and that hasn’t been particularly great for us. We just needed a bit of confidence and some light at the end of the tunnel and thank goodness it came on Sunday against Bradford.

“There’s still a lot of work to be done, defensively we’re still not where I want us to be. But we’ve got a smile on our face this week and we want to kick on.

“I’ve watched Oldham’s last three games and they’re playing with a lot of vim and vigour. Their attitude’s very good and they’re a committed team so it’s no surprise that they got the result the other day.

“There’s a lot of positivity around the place.”

Gary Lo and Scott Wheeldon are doubts for the Eagles with a shoulder and calf problem respectively.