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Freeze frustration

23/ 2/2005

ROUGHYEDS boss Gary Mercer has spoken of his frustration following the postponement of the Northern Rail Cup match at Rochdale.

Freezing conditions overnight on Saturday meant the Spotland pitch was frozen.

Mercer said: "It was a shame the game was postponed because after the good second half against Blackpool last week the boys wanted to get another game under their belts.

"Once I knew the game was off I took the opportunity to watch the Castleford-Featherstone game so it was quite a productive day in the end as I was able to see two teams who we will be coming up against this season."

Mercer has now turned his attention to Sunday's visit to Swinton Lions.

He said: "I'm sure it will be a very tough game as they have had a good wins over Rochdale and Blackpool already."

Oldham's cold weather has meant something of culture shock in training for Roughyeds Cook Island recruits.

Mercer said: "The boys are having to adapt very quickly to the conditions but they are good professionals so I don't see any problems."

On the injury front Simon Haughton, who is carrying a calf injury, is rated 50/50 for the Swinton game. Mark Roberts (groin) and Andy Isherwood (back) are very doubtful while Jon Goddard is definitely out with a broken hand.