Rams target crucial win on Cumbrian trip

The Rams are on a four-match losing run and have slipped to ninth in the Championship, level on eight points with second-bottom Haven.

The Rams won 20-4 at Tetley’s Stadium in February and know the importance of completing a league double in Cumbria on Saturday.

Coach Glenn Morrison will want his side to show the same level of commitment, which earned credit for their second half display in Sunday’s Challenge Cup defeat to Wigan.

A near full-strength Warriors stormed into a 36-4 half-time lead but improved Rams defending restricted Wigan to just three second half tries.

Morrison said: “Wigan showed respect by putting out the strongest side they have had all year against us.

“At half-time we spoke about what we have to work on for the league and there were some encouraging signs in the second half. We tested their defence with offloads and line breaks and went close to scoring a couple of tries.

“They showed signs of what we need in the second half and can keep their heads up and be positive.”

Morrison paid tribute to winger Donald Kudangirana, who made his debut against the star-studded Wigan side.

Morrison added: “ He was at Sheffield when their second team folded and came to play for our seconds and I thought he deserved a shot.

“Some players haven’t been performing well enough and we gave him a shot and for any kid like that, (Wigan) is the kind of game you want to make your debut in. He did himself justice and can be proud.

“The in-goal judge awarded him a try but the touch judge put his flag up late and it would have been nice for him to have scored.”