Hunslet have a chance to bounce back this weekend after their last outing ended in a 4-54 home defeat to Oldham.
Oldham were red-hot on the day, but no doubt Hunslet had an off day and in a candid and frank post-match interview, Head Coach Dean Muir said that the performance wasn’t good enough.
“Up to now, we’ve had to play players even if they are not in form as we’ve had bodies missing. But as the squad comes back and strengthens, I can drop players if they are not performing.”
It doesn’t get any easier this week with a trip to Featherstone. A team the Parksiders last beat in 1999. But, after defeat at Wembley in the 1895 cup, maybe Hunslet could catch them with a cup final hangover.
“Featherstone worked really hard at Wembley.” said Muir “It was a big occasion, and they are a team full of big names. But we’ve got to not show too much respect. We did that too readily against Oldham and it cost us. We have to bounce back and be accountable for our performance.”
Heads haven’t dropped in training and Muir says it’s been a good couple of weeks. The Wembley break means on-loan players Ryan Westerman and Brett Bailey can integrate into the squad and the Parksiders have welcomed Mason Corbett and Will Kirby into the fold also.
Corbett joined Hunslet on loan earlier in the year from Bradford and impressed with his sharp play around the ruck. “I’ve been really impressed with Mason in training.” said Muir “He brings something different, he is a very natural talent and loves to compete. He comes into our squad for this season and 2026, and we were really pleased to get him.”
Kirby comes on loan from Hull FC “Will is a back row/middle who is aggressive and a good ball carrier. He’s played in Super League and adds depth to our squad.”
Head Injury Assessments hang over forwards Aaron Levy and Harvey Hallas, but other than that, the squad is good to go.
“We work hard and prep for every game. But we can add more to the team. It’s about getting the right persons in the right fit.” says Muir.
Fans will be able to question Hunslets Head Coach on Tuesday Night (June 17th 7.30pm) as he faces the fans in a question-and-answer session. “It should be a great event. I’m looking forward to it, discussing where we are and where we hope to go as the season progresses.”
21 man squad
