Josh Johnson looks ahead to Law Cup

Rochdale Hornets prop forward Josh Johnson is relishing the opportunity to secure his first piece of silverware at the club, as Gary Thornton’s side prepare for a meeting with Oldham in the Law Cup.

The historic fixture - which was last staged in 2023 - will make its return on Wednesday at Boundary Park.

It also marks the Hornets' only official pre-season friendly, before attention turns to a mouth-watering Betfred Challenge Cup second round tie against Widnes Vikings at the Crown Oil Arena on Sunday.

Johnson arrived at the club from Oldham during the off-season and admits he hasn’t had a difficult time settling in.

The 30-year-old is looking forward to playing his former side, saying: “It’s always good to come up against one of your old clubs, especially in a derby match.

“The mood is great in camp. Pre-season can be tough, but everyone is ready to get stuck into some games.

“It will also be good to enjoy a first hit-out with my new team-mates.”

Johnson was one of 10 new faces through the door at the Crown Oil Arena, with Gary Thornton looking to bolster his squad ahead of the 2025 season.

The depth in all positions reflects that of a side eager to go one better than last season and secure promotion, and Johnson knows that competition for places will be fierce.

He said: “If you look at our squad, there’s going to be competition across the board, which will be tough for Gary.

“When injuries and suspensions kick in though, having strength in depth is massive.”

The strength in depth will be on show almost immediately, with the rearranged Law Cup now coming four days before their Challenge Cup tie against Widnes.

The winner will face Betfred League 1 opposition in Round 3, taking on either Cornwall or North Wales Crusaders.

“It’s not ideal with it being such a short turnaround for the club, but financially it makes sense [to play the Law Cup],” he said.

“On a personal note, it’ll be good to have a run against Oldham at Boundary Park.

“We look sharp with the ball, which was one of our main strengths last season, and hopefully we can provide more of the same in that department."