Rugby League: Hornets will start season at second time of asking with local derby against Swinton - POSTPONED

Rochdale Hornets

Rochdale Hornets will start their 2018 season at the second time of asking on Sunday, as they take the short trip to Heywood Road to face Swinton Lions.

Their round one fixture against Batley Bulldogs was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at the Crown Oil Arena.

It was frustrating for Hornets, as they were unable to kick-off their season with the other 10 Championship clubs.

They will be hoping for no such disruptions this time out though, as they contest their first derby of the year against local rivals Swinton.

While Hornets had the weekend off, Swinton travelled to Toulouse Olympique for their opening fixture of the new season.

The French outfit came up with a late onslaught to record a 46-14 win, scoring four tries in the final 15 minutes.

There could be a familiar face on the opposition team sheet on Sunday, as former Rochdale forward Gavin Bennion has signed a one-month loan deal with Swinton.

He left the Crown Oil Arena for Super League club Salford Red Devils in the off-season, but has returned to the Championship and could feature after missing the trip to France.

Hornets are without Dave Allen and Toby Adamson as they picked up injuries in pre-season.

Jack Johnson, Luis Johnson and Pat Moran have all been named in the squad on dual registration from Warrington Wolves.

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UPDATE

Due to a waterlogged pitch the game has been postponed.