McNally previews clash with former club Oldham

Rochdale Hornets full-back Gregg McNally feels his side’s victory against Midlands Hurricanes has instilled real confidence in the group ahead of Sunday’s derby day clash with Oldham.

Last weekend, two tries from Jordan Andrade overturned a 6-0 half-time deficit and ensured Gary Thornton’s side didn’t slump to a second straight defeat following their narrow 14-12 loss at Workington a week earlier.

That victory saw the Hornets keep pace with the top three, and McNally believes the result is a good indication of how much the team has progressed this season.

The 33-year-old said: “It was a good win for us, especially for the league table, as it gives us a little breathing space to the teams below.

“We showed great desire and commitment to each other, on our goal-line especially. If this game happened earlier in the season, it might’ve been one we lost.”

Sunday’s win was made more impressive given the current injuries to starting halves Martyn Ridyard and Lewis Else.

The absence of their key creative duo put greater onus on experienced full-back McNally, but he admits being a leader on the field is a role he is comfortable playing. 

“Even if Ridy and Elsey are fit and in the team, I try to be a leader and help those around me. 

“There’s enough experience still in the team with the likes of myself and Duane Straugheir to help the team, although hopefully we can have them both back in action in the near future.”

This weekend provides an even greater test for the Hornets, with local rivals and Betfred League 1 table-toppers Oldham making the short trip to the Crown Oil Arena.

Oldham have been near-perfect this season, losing just once in the league to the side currently sat second - Keighley Cougars. 

McNally, who has featured twice for the club at different stages of his career, recognises the threat that Oldham will bring and knows the squad will need to put their best foot forward on derby day.

“It’s a big day for the fans, being a local derby, but as far as we’re concerned, we’re just going to concentrate on us,” he said ahead of the game. 

“We’re only in control of what we can control, and that’s how we have to apply ourselves on the day. If we play to our potential, we can beat any side.

“This game won’t define our season, and we’re still fully focused on our aims for the year. As always, we’ll take that each week as it comes.”