Brown makes a welcome return from injury lay-off

Brown suffered a season ending knee injury during the Challenge Cup tie against Wigan Warriors last April but marked his return in some style.

Brown produced a man-of-the-match display in the 28-12 victory over Salford Red Devils, earning high praise from coach Glenn Morrison.

Hooker Wayne Godwin also returned from a broken arm which curtailed his season as Dewsbury made several changes from the side who were edged out 18-16 by Batley Bulldogs on Boxing Day.

Morrison said: “We have always said it’s not about individuals but I think if we’d had Browny at the back end of last season, we could have done even better than we did, as that is the type of player he is.

“I was happy both (Brown and Godwin) came through un-injured.

“Anthony Thackeray got a dead arm which we will have to monitor but I’m sure he will be ok for the next time he has to play.”

Dewsbury’s next friendly is away to Gateshead Thunder on Saturday January 24 but it is likely several fringe players and new reserve team signings will be given a run out at Newcastle’s Kingstone Park.

The Rams final pre-season game is at home to Championship newcomers London Broncos on February 1, in what is sure to provide Morrison’s squad with another stern test.

Morrison added: “With the squad we have now, people who may have started could be second or third choice.

“Players will have to fight for positions and nobody can have an easy week at training or a have bad game or else someone will come straight into their place and the boys understand that.”