LIVERPOOL ST HELENS have made a good start to their North One West campaign following up the first day win over Fleetwood with an excellent victory up at Carlisle.

They will be hoping to continue the run when renewing rivalry with Altrincham Kersal, relegated from the National Leagues, this Saturday at Moss Lane.

One man relishing his new role this season is Jan Lourens, who, following Simon Worsley’s retirement, has been appointed as club captain. “It is an absolute honour to captain such a great and historic club” he said. “I’ve played under some really great skippers here including Steve Cook, Phil Kearns and SimonWorsley and hope to follow their example”.

South African born Lourens arrived at Moss Lane in 2003 and with an intervening 18 month spell at Sedgley Park, is now in his eighth season at LSH.

Now married, he has settled locally and is looking forward to the season ahead. Having captained his senior school and University sides in his homeland he is no stranger to the responsibility.

He said: “We’ve developed a great team ethic at Moss Lane and I’ll work to maintain that. “However every one of my teammates is different and needs a different approach. Encouragement and direction is important but so also is a kick up the backside when needed.” Above all however, Lourens, a firm favourite with the Moss Lane faithful, will lead by example.

“My first priority is to improve my own game” he said, “I will be continually working on my fitness and giving my absolute best in every game.”