BUFFALOES GO FOR SIX APPEAL



Bramley Buffaloes go into this Saturday’s West Yorkshire derby against Dewsbury Celtic (Arthur Miller Stadium, Stanningley 2.30pm) looking to make it six wins out of six and maintain their 100% record in the Co-operative Conference.

The Buffaloes have already racked up 214 points including last weekend’s 78-4 demolition of East Lancashire Lions but coach Mark Butterill is not resting on his laurels:

“We’re not there yet,” exclaimed Bramley born Butterill who played for the original amber & black professional outfit “And I’d say we’re firing at around 75% but that’s proving just about enough to get us through.

“We’ve put on some sparkling rugby that wouldn’t be out of place in the professional game and have entertained in all of our clashes so far even if a couple of those clashes have been a bit too close for comfort!

“Dewsbury will present a big test as they are fresh off a strong win over Carlisle and we’ve had some rare old battles with them in recent seasons. We need a big crowd behind us as that so obviously lifts the players.

“It’s the key selling point in this club when I talk to players. They like to be appreciated and raise their game in front of an audience as well as play for a name that is woven into the fabric of rugby league history.

“The supporters have stuck with us and they are still turning out in their numbers and I’m firmly convinced that we are progressing on the playing front after the great work of Cooky and Phil Hellewell,” added Butterill who was keen to single out skipper Danny O’Connor for praise.

“Danny has been excellent for us so far this year and really excelled in his new role as captain.

“He has trimmed down and got himself as fit as he’s ever been and now the team and Danny are reaping the rewards not just in terms of Danny's performances but also by not suffering as many injuries as in previous years,” added Butterill.