Rugby Union: Cunliffe signs for Park

Sep 12 2007 by Ron Roby, Liverpool Daily Post

WEST PARK have signed Rochdale Hornets centre Dave Cunliffe.

The ex-Fylde man, 26, who learned his rugby in St Helens, will add strength and experience to a back division ravaged by injuries even before their National Three North campaign had begun.

”We are delighted,” coach Martin Jones said. “Dave should be available for Saturday’s home game against Rugby Lions and there is every possibility winger Mark Turner will be fit to return.”

The Merseysiders were pleased with their performance at Macclesfield last week, especially after failing to score at Preston Grasshoppers.

“Last Saturday was really encouraging,” Jones added. “ The return of Ian Callaghan in the centre and his understanding with Rob Hitchmough at stand-off made a lot of difference. The forwards also got going and they dominated set pieces.”

There is still a doubt over Neil Ryan’s fitness, although he is training this week he is likely to have a check on his damaged groin later on.

If their new capture Dave Cunliffe runs out on Saturday it is more than likely that he’ll partner Ian Callaghan in the centre, enabling last season’s top points scorer Andy Soutar to return to his more natural position on the wing.