Trio back for 125-1 shots Batley?

Mar 20 2008 Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

PAUL Mennell, Jamie Stokes and Bolu Fagborun could all return for Batley Bulldogs in time for Good Friday’s Co-operative National League Division One home opener against Vikings.

Batley boss Gary Thornton said: "We've got Widnes, Whitehaven and Salford as our first three games – it'll be a good test for us.

"William Hill have quoted us as 125-1 to win the competition, which I've used as motivation for our boys."

Anthony Henderson (knee) is Thornton's only doubt although he is expected to recover in time for Friday's fixture.

Widnes coach Steve McCormack wants his side to get back to winning ways with a convincing performance against the Bulldogs.

McCormack said: "We were quite poor against Barrow (in last week's Northern Rail Cup game). It was very disappointing and there's not an awful lot we can take from that game.

"We can't wait for the trip to Batley – we need to perform. “The sign of a good side is how they bounce back after a poor performance. The players know they let people down but I'm sure they can bounce back on Friday."