No pressure on Hornets, says Talbot

Rochdale Hornets Coach Ian Talbot

Rochdale Hornets begin their 2014 league campaign with a tough test away at reigning Champions Sheffield Eagles this Sunday.

Speaking at the 2014 Championship Launch, head coach Ian Talbot heaped further presure on those clubs who have spent big chasing the Super League dream: "We can't wait to turn up and give it a go. All the pressure is on them [Sheffield]. They are the champions playing against a team tipped for the wooden spoon on home soil.

"I have the belief that my team can turn up on the day, execute a game plan and come away with something.

"We have rightfully not gone bang or bust on the budget, like other teams have, as as a members owned club we just can't do it. Some teams in this division have spent more on three players than what we have on the entire squad for the season. That only adds to the pressure to get a win against us and I hope that we can surprise a few of them along the way and surprise most of the media who don't rate us."

Hornets will go into the fixture without Alex Trumper, who is suffering a shoulder injury, as well as hooker Alex McClurg, whose recent run of illness has been diagnosed as excercise induced asthama.

Trialists Marsh and Bowman have been rewarded for their efforts over pre-season with contract offers for the season. Waddy and Ball will continue to train with the club but return to the amateur game to continue their education. Winger Buckley-Mayall will play for Oldham U20s.

The game on Sunday kicks off at 2pm at the Eagles 'new' home, Owlerton Stadium. Tickets cost £14 adults, £9 concessions: http://sivtickets.com/event/sheffieldeagles