Winning start for new boss Littler
THE Stuart Littler era at Swinton got off to a successful start as the Lions recorded what could prove to be a vital victory over relegation rivals Bradford at Odsal.
It was ex-Salford and Leigh centre Littler’s first match as coach less than a week after he was appointed as replacement for John Duffy, who left the financially-stricken club to take over at Featherstone Rovers.
Swinton had the best of the opening exchanges against the Bulls and made it count through winger Shaun Robinson. It was the only try of the first half, with Chris Hankinson’s penalty on the hooter the only other score.
Bradford levelled the scores soon after the break, but the Lions hit back through Ben White and sealed the 16-6 victory through Wigan Warriors’ dualregistration centre Liam Forsyth.
Swinton leapfrog Oldham into 10th after Roughyeds were beaten by Rochdale Hornets at Bower Fold.
It was the first time the two sides had met since the ill-tempered fixture at the Summer Bash in Blackpool in May.
A brace apiece from Warrington pair Kevin Penny and Declan Kay, plus scores from Jake Ecclestone and Danny Yates, helped Alan Kilshaw’s side to victory.
Daniel Smith, Adam Clay, Dave Hewitt and George Tyson all crossed for Roughyeds, but to no avail as they fell to a 34-24 home defeat.