Talbot wants strong finish

Rochdale Hornets Coach Ian Talbot

Sheffield Eagles are the visitors to Spotland this Sunday in the final league game of the season and Rochdale Hornets coach Ian Talbot has challenged his players to finish the season well, despite the club’s relegation already being confirmed.

Talbot said: “It’s been a long season and a real learning curve after our promotion.

“The squad’s busted and depleted, so it’s just a matter of getting a team out there and giving it our best shot. We want to finish outside of the bottom two.”

He added: “We’re trying to consolidate where we’re at and what we’ve got, and if we can just make a few additions we could have a strong squad next season, but it’s also going to be a lot tougher division than the last time we were in it.”

Sheffield Eagles coach Mark Aston is aiming for a sixth successive win as his side approach the play-offs.

Eagles have not lost since a home defeat against Batley Bulldogs in July.

Aston said: “We always try to improve as the season goes on, and we seem to have found a little bit of consistency which has been lacking throughout the season.”

The game kicks off at 3pm at Spotland Stadium, with tickets costing £14 adults, £10 concessions and £5 children.

The game is an 'in memoriam' game and the players of Rochdale Hornets will wear black socks. A moments silence will also be held ahead of the game to remember those who have died in the past year.

If any fan has a friend or family member in particular who has died in the past 12 months you can contact the club and their name will be announced prior to the moments silence.

info@hornetsrugbyleague.com

01706 648004