Rochdale Hornets restart its Betfred Championship North campaign with a win

Rochdale Hornets 28 Sheffield Eagles 16

The second phase of Rochdale Hornets’ Wheelchair Rugby League season got underway with a hard-fought victory, against Sheffield Eagles at the Hornets’ Nest (Rochdale Leisure Centre) on Sunday.

With both clubs at a similar stage of development, a determined Eagles - chasing that elusive first win - never stopped challenging the Hornets defence.

But, the home side were able to record only its second league win of the season - with a 28-16 victory.

A brace from Man of the Match Gavin Dobson and four conversions from captain Kyran Holt proved vital in securing two valuable points.

This moves the club a step closer to its season target of competing in the play-offs come October. 

Special mentions must go to Adam Forbes, on debut, and also Stephen Scott who croosed for his first try since joining the club.

Having hosted the majority of the teams at home for the opening phase of the season, the Hornets now look forward to challenging themselves with reverse fixtures away at Dundee Dragons (July 17), Bradford Bulls (September 4) before closing its league campaign at North Wales Crusaders A on September 11.

Head Coach Carl Abraham praised his players after the game; “although it was obvious to see we’d not competed since May, every player who took to the court should be extremely proud of their efforts. 

"I’m confident, if we continue to show the same commitment, we can travel with confidence and look to cause a few upsets against the more established teams. 

"As a club, we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished.”

Hornets: Gavin Dobson, Joshua Hart, Kyran Holt, Sophie Bamford, Stephen Scott.

Interchanges: Debbie Johnson-Brown, Conrad Glowacki, Adam Forbes.

Tries: Stephen Scott (14'), Gavin Dobson (25', 63'), Joshua Hart (36'), Kyran Holt (72').

Goals: Kyran Holt, 4/5.

Man of the Match: Gavin Dobson