Last updated at 12:40, Wednesday, 02 May 2012

Playmaker Carl Rudd could be set for a switch to the No 13 shirt to allow new recruit Jamie Rooney to debut at stand-off in Whitehaven’s clash with London Skolars on Sunday (2pm).

Carl Rudd

With loose-forward Bradd Crellin suspended this weekend, boss Don Gailer is considering a move to the back of the scrum for Rudd.

And he reckons that could spell triple trouble for Skolars, who, with scrum-half Ben Karalius also set to be retained, could see attacks sparking from three areas.

“It will give them three ball-handlers to watch,” Gailer said. “The three of them could create their own level of havoc.

“I might play Ruddy at loose-forward, as he’s got everything it takes to be a good one. He would probably give us a new dimension.”

Rudd is second on Haven’s all-time goal-kicking charts behind John McKeown and will retain his kicking role, despite the addition of Rooney, who has fitted in well at training.

“The main thing when you come to a club is that you are quickly accepted by the boys and that has happened with Jamie,” added Gailer.

“He keeps himself in good shape and knows what it takes to be right for a game. I expect he will be fine come Sunday.

“Young Ben played very well in our last game against South Wales and you could see his confidence grow.

“He needs to use that as a base to step forward now.”

First published at 11:28, Wednesday, 02 May 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk