Kilshaw praises survival success

ROCHDALE Hornets head coach Alan Kilshaw has commended his team after they secured their safety in the Kingstone Press Championship.

While Hornets may have suffered a narrow 26-22 defeat against Sheffield Eagles during the weekend, results elsewhere meant it was confirmed the team will remain in the division next season.

Hornets were tipped by many onlookers to go down this season due to the small budget they have compared to some of their rivals, and with that in mind, Kilshaw is extremely pleased with what his players have managed to achieve.

“We’re now safe in the Championship and that should be celebrated as the players have done well this year,” he said.

“It’s a bit bittersweet after a loss, but we’re playing Championship rugby next season and with the budget and restraints we’ve got, we’re proud to have achieved that.

“I’m pleased for the chairman, all the board, the staff and the players.

“It’s a collective effort. It’s been a tough year, but we’re better for it and deserve to stay up.”