Luke Nelmes: Standards set by Good Friday win

Front-rower Luke Nelmes believes Rochdale Hornets' tense 8-7 victory over Swinton Lions on Good Friday has set the standard in terms of what is required defensively for the remainder of the season.

An inspired performance at the Crown Oil Arena saw the Hornets return to winning ways in dramatic fashion, a late penalty goal from Morgan Punchard proving to be the difference as they came back from a half-time deficit to claim victory. 

Friday's win came despite Gary Thornton's side being reduced to 12 men less than 15 minutes into the second half, after Jaden Dayes was sent off for a high tackle. 

With a trip to Dewsbury Rams on the agenda this week, Nelmes admits their return to winning ways came at the perfect time. 

"The boys and staff were delighted with Good Friday, as I’m sure the fans were too," he said. 

"To come out on top in a very close game against a good Swinton side was brilliant, even more so given the adversity we faced by having two head knocks and a yellow and red card. To defend with 12 men for that last 25/30 minutes proves what a hard working group we’ve got.

"The challenge now is to bring that level of effort and determination every week for the rest of the season, starting against Dewsbury.

"It will be another battle going to their place, but we'll prepare as best we can this week and be ready to go, come Sunday."

The Hornets' only try on Good Friday came from another forward in the shape of Elijah Simpson, who proved to be the match-winner on debut. 

The former Cornwall man met his new team-mates for the first time less than 72 hours before making his debut, but Nelmes says he has slotted into the group straight away. 

"Elijah has fitted in real well," he admitted. 

"I’ve had a couple of chats with him in the short time he’s been with us, and he seems a really good bloke to have around the place.

"I think I speak for everyone when I say he was outstanding for us on debut against Swinton, and hopefully he will be a big part of our success moving forward."