Rams are set to hit ground running

The Rams have spent the first week of pre-season going through various fitness and weight checks and are now ready to hit the ground running with 12 weeks before their opening league game at promoted Rochdale Hornets.

Morrison said: “The physical testing is body on the line stuff and now I am going to enjoy myself flogging the boys from this week onwards.

“The new boys have all fitted in well. When looking at players to sign, I do my homework on how the person is off the field and knew all the new boys would fit in well. We now look to be ready for the new season and hopefully will stay injury free.”

Morrison admits the Rams squad is complete but they will be working closely with their dual registration team Hemel Stags and if players show promise they could be promoted to the Rams’ Championship squad.

Fringe players at the Rams will get a chance to play competitive rugby with League One Hemel and Karl Pryce will monitor the Stags’ games and report back to Morrison with news of how players are progressing.

Morrison has also spoken to a couple of Jamaican players who do not have professional clubs, with a view to joining Hemel.

Morrison added: “The whole point of the dual registration partnership is to get players game time and if they are doing well, there will be chance for them to step up and play for us.”

Dewsbury have three pre-season friendlies confirmed but Morrison admits one more fixture could be added to the list as both Paul Sykes and Tony Tonks have applied to the RFL for testimonials, which are expected to be granted.

Dewsbury will be tested by two Super League clubs as they have confirmed a friendly with neighbours Wakefield Trinity, at Tetley’s Stadium on January 8.

They will then travel to Super League new boys Leigh Centurions for what is sure to be a tough test on January 29.

Dewsbury’s first game is the traditional Boxing Day Challenge at Batley Bulldogs, which is being sponsored by Powerhouse Fitness.