Crossley eyes Rovers return

Glenn Morrison’s new-look Rams kick off their campaign away to promoted Doncaster on February 3 and just a week later they host minor premiers Rovers, in a clash to be televised live by Premier Sports (ko 6pm).

Powerful prop Crossley scooped two awards with the Rams when he was named supporters’ player of the season and the players’ player and his performances attracted huge interest from Featherstone, who made him a lucrative offer to sign.

Crossley has teamed up with a host of other former Dewsbury players at Post Office Road and he is sure to receive a warm welcome from the Rams faithful.

Russ Spiers spent much of last season on dual registration at Doncaster and he will have a keen eye on Dewsbury’s opening game at the Keepmoat.

Morrison said: “When the fixtures are out players start to get excited as the season is just around the corner.

“There is only so much training you can do and players just want to get out there and play.”

Morrison was due to announce a senior player’s group this week in a concept that originated in Australia to help bring the squad and coaches closer.

Morrison added: “It’s something we did in Australia and at Wakefield and its a vital part of the squad.

“It will allow some of the younger players, who are not confident about speaking to the coach directly, to speak to one of the players with any problems they have.

“I would expect our captain will come from this group of four or five senior players.”

Morrison is also closing in on a replacement for assistant coach Richard Slater and could be in a position to announce the post next week.

The countdown is also on to the Boxing Day derby at Batley Bulldogs, when Rams fans will get a first chance to see Morrison’s new-look squad.

The Rams will host rivals Batley in the first Heavy Woollen league derby on Easter Monday (April 1), with the return at Mount Pleasant on Sunday June 2.

It is also worth Rams supporters noting that the they have been handed home fixtures in their final three matches of the season.