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Bamford fans set for a treat

30/ 8/2008

ROCHDALE welcome West Hartlepool to Bamford today for a trial match.

The North East club have specially asked for the fixture on the strength of two cracking games they had when Rochdale played in the North East League. They have been promoted to North One this season and will be looking for a good workout.

Hartlepool were impressed with Rochdale’s open play and they will not be disappointed today when Darren James and Steve Collins team up at half back.

They in turn should create openings for centres Jonny Mair and Ben Cullen. With two flying wingers on show in Callum Mulkeen and Mark Thomas the fans should be treated to some good open rugby.

Rob Ward gets his first team appearance at prop and Danny Greenhalgh returns at hooker. South African Leo Freschou pairs up with Tom Helliwell in the second row but Lee Riddle misses out with a leg injury. Youngster Jan Van Zyl has worked hard and deserves his place on the bench.

Mike Bradwell has his first game as captain and he will be looking a strong performance from his team in preparation for next Saturday’s first League game against Liverpool St Helens.

The second team also entertain West Hartlepool. Captain, Sean Campbell has a young side around him.

Coach Mick Gould has again gone for a youth policy and also picked players who have trained regularly throughout the close season.

Andy Farrer returns after a serious injury which kept him out all last season. Paul Swinden and Andy O'Brien team up again in the front row, and veteran Chris Kane is on the bench.

Rochdale are looking to run four senior teams this season. Any person looking for a game should attend training on Tuesday or Thursday evening at 7pm and they will be guaranteed a game.