Dewsbury players have “got to be honest or they’ve got to go” after latest defeat

Dewsbury coach Neil Kelly says his players must stand up or leave the stage after they suffered a ninth consecutive defeat at home to Rochdale on Sunday.

The Rams haven’t won since beating Swinton 20-0 back in February, and they suffered an agonising last minute defeat against the Hornets, going down 32-27.

Gareth Moore’s drop goal had edged them in front in an entertaining game on a hot day at Tetley’s Stadium, before Declan Kay’s late try meant the visitors walked away with the two points, moving them within two points of Dewsbury in the Championship table.

Kelly said: “We got what we deserved. I’ve got some questions to ask about why we do certain things in training but don’t do them in a game.

“I’m concerned with the nature of our performance and the lack of motivation after eight weeks of no wins. Not taking anything away from Rochdale, but there was a win available for us today and I can’t understand why that doesn’t motivate my players.

“Some of these players were lacking a basic motivation that I think a coach should take for granted when preparing a side, and that basic motivation is to do what you need to do to win the game.

“I think it’s got to the stage where they’ve got to be honest or they’ve got to go.

“We’ve just had a chat and people can tell you one thing and do another, and I’ve never wanted to be one of those people. I’m worried now that some of my players are those type of people.

“We’ve got to roll our sleeves up and get on with it, stop moaning about people, moaning about the referee and moaning about how unfortunately we are.

“It’s about time we manned up and do what we’re supposed to do, and if they’re not going to do that, then it’s time to leave the stage.”

Dewsbury are back in Championship action on Sunday with a tough trip to Barrow.