BULLS head coach Eamon O’Carroll admits he is relishing the prospect of having to drop players. It is not a luxury he has been able to afford for what has been an injury and suspension-ravaged 2024, but big names are starting to return. Among those are forward duo Ebon Scurr and Sam Hallas, whose fan favourite status alone will not be enough to ensure they slot straight back into the matchday 17 and stay there.
O’Carroll said: “It’ll be a big period for the pair of them. “They have to make sure they take their opportunity and I’m sure they will, but I’m actually hopeful that next week (against Sheffield) will mean I need to have a really tough conversation with some lads. “It could be that I’m telling lads that while they played well against Dewsbury, they didn’t quite do a certain couple of things, and that’s why they’re out of the squad for Sheffield.
“I’ll be reinforcing that message with the players before the Dewsbury game, especially among the forwards.” O’Carroll says experienced prop Nathan Mason will be guaranteed some game time against the Rams tonight, even though he is not yet back at his peak. The Bulls head coach said: “I still think Nathy’s got a part to play for us in 2024.
“ I’m probably more excited about next year, given what he can do over a full pre-season . “But he’s worked extremely hard to get back in shape, I know his quality, and I’m looking forward to giving him an opportunity. “He will feature against.