Heavy Woollen amateurs given chance to impress

The match is Batley’s third pre-season friendly and while they are likely to field a number of trialists, it is also an ideal chance for the Heavy Woollen players to catch the eye.

The team has been put together and coached by former Batley player Danny Maun, who is relishing the chance to see the promising local lads come up against the professionals.

Maun said: “The lads have worked so hard in training, it would have been unfair to have dropped anyone from the squad, so we will use 22 players.

“We have a few experienced older heads in there but the main focus is on giving the youngsters a chance and I hope one or two catch the eye.”

Dewsbury Moor winger George Croisdale is one to have really impressed Maun, who believes could have a future at Championship level, while Thornhill’s Joel Gibson is another to have shone.

Maun added: “George is only 18 years old but he’s a big strong lad and I hope he does himself justice.”

Moor’s James Delaney was originally in the Heavy Woollen squad but has joined Dewsbury Rams and his place has been taken by Martyn Holland of Shaw Cross Sharks.

Dewsbury Moor have a total of eight players in the squad, with Bartley O’Brian, experienced Andy Robinson and Jamie Samme also included.

Birstall Victoria’s experienced half-back Brendan Sheridan is also expected to feature for the Heavy Woollen side.

Maun added: “For some of the older end it will be a bit of a swan song but my main aim has been to bring together the promising youngsters from the area.

“The majority of our squad are 19, 20 and 21 and it would be great if they could get picked up by a Championship club, even if it’s not Batley.

“They are all up for it but I know how hard it will be against a professional side, I just hope we can score some tries.”

Maun pointed out the form of Bulldogs new signing Shaun Squires, who has had two terrific games, against Dewsbury and Featherstone, since joining Batley from Sheffield Eagles in the close season, having started his career with the Shaw Cross amateur club.

Maun said: “Squires and Johnny Campbell, both local lads who came from the amateur game, have been given a chance and taken it.

“Maybe I will have to give one of John Kear’s famous team talks before we go out.

“John is a great motivator and was brilliant at getting the players up for a game.

“He knew exactly what to say and which buttons to press.”