Veteran Sykes still the man for Kelly

Dewsbury coach Neil Kelly has praised the impact of veteran Paul Sykes on his side ahead of the former England international’s testimonial this weekend.

Sykes, 36, has been granted a testimonial by the RFL and the Rams take on one of his former clubs Bradford in his testimonial game this Sunday.

Kelly told the club’s official website: “He’s been massive. To be honest I didn’t know if we could work together, as we have never worked together in the past.

“I’ve got to say though, that he has adapted his own game and he is still an influential player in the side and why we wanted to re-sign him for this season.

“He is already proving his worth this season, and in the absence (on Sunday) of Gareth Moore, who was ill. His goal kicking alone is well worth keeping him, but he is a great influence and I am really pleased to be at the club while he is celebrating his testimonial.”

Sykes, who also counts London Broncos, Wakefield and Featherstone among his former clubs, has made more than 400 career appearances and is now in his third season with Dewsbury.