Kilshaw can’t wait for big Wolves tester
HORNETS head coach Alan Kilshaw is relishing the opportunity to go against a Super League side after a pre-season match with Warrington Wolves was announced.
The two teams will meet at the Crown Oil Arena on Saturday 28 January as Hornets continued their preparations for the new campaign.
Kilshaw is glad that the match will be taking place at home, and is looking forward to the fixture.
“It will be a good test for us and one where the coaching staff and myself can get a look at the players ahead of the season. We know it will be a difficult ask but we’re looking forward to welcoming Warrington to our home,” he said.
“I would like to thank Tony Smith and Karl Fitzpatrick for allowing the game to take place at the Crown Oil Arena. Both sides play an exciting brand of football and the supporters should be in for a good game.”
Hornets and Warrington are well aware of each other, with the two clubs having a partnership in place that allows Kilshaw’s side to take players on dual registration and also use training facilities.
The link between the sides was key in helping Rochdale secure promotion last season, and Kilshaw is extremely thankful.
“The partnership we have is great. We are able to send some of our players to Warrington on dual registration when they need some game time and likewise, Warrington will help us out when we need it,” he said.
“The training facilities at Padgate are probably up there with the best in the country and we are lucky to have access to them. It will be great to see some familiar faces at The Crown Oil Arena for this fixture.”
Hornets director Luke Harrison was just as happy that the fixture is taking place, adding: “We are pleased that we can welcome our partner club Warrington Wolves to the Crown Oil Arena.
“The partnership we have is fantastic and we look forward to continuing the good working relationship we have.
“From a supporter’s point of view, these are the games you want to see. Welcoming some of the biggest names in rugby league to our home will be great for the club and we hope we can get a few through the door for what is set to be a fantastic day.”
We know it will be a difficult ask but we’re looking forward to welcoming Warrington’