Preview: Hunslet v Oldham

Waine Pryce will make his Hunslet debut when title-chasing Hawks host last year Grand Finalists Oldham.

Hunslet coach Paul March said: “With players of Waine’s capabilities, you’ve got to put them in and let them show what they can do. I’m looking forward to him hopefully having a good debut and making a real impact for us.”

March also confirmed that he now has a fully fit squad to choose from. Richard Knight came through last week’s Carnegie Challenge Cup tie unscathed while Nico Slain will play in Thursday night’s reserve fixture with a view to possibly forcing his way into March’s thoughts for Friday’s first team game.

March said: “There’s still a lot for us to improve. We’re behind schedule compared to where I’d like to be but we’re not that far behind and we’re going in the right direction.”

Lucas Onyango (knee), Danny Whitmore (ankle), Dave Ellison (calf) and John Gillam (shoulder) will all face fitness tests on Thursday before Oldham coach Tony Benson settles on his team.

Definitely missing are Kashley Watkins, Chris Clarke (both broken wrists) and Mark Brocklehurst (suspended).

Benson said: “We were on a high before our game against Blackwood but we were very pleased with that performance. We maintained our mental composure throughout so we’re in a positive frame of mind for this game against Hunslet.”