RUGBY LEAGUE: Clough joins Oxford quest (From Witney Gazette)

RUGBY LEAGUE: Clough joins Oxford quest

10:00am Friday 4th January 2013 in Rugby

Oxford RL’s ranks have been swelled again with the capture of former Salford, Leigh, Blackpool and Oldham hooker John Clough.

The 26-year-old, who can also play loose forward, spent last season at Oldham, making 24 appearances and scoring eight tries.

He started his career at amateur club Blackbrook ARL, before moving onto Salford where he made his professional debut in 2005 against Leeds and went on to make 17 appearances in the elite competition.

He also had a brief spell on loan to London Broncos.

Clough then played one season at Leigh in 2007 before moving on to Blackpool in 2008 where he spent three years with the club before their demise and then joined Oldham.

Clough said: “This is going to be a really exciting challenge and one I am looking forward too.

“This is an exciting project and I cannot wait to get started.

“Looking at the squad that we have put together, we can achieve what we want to achieve.

“There’s a lot of talent here and the experienced players are being joined by some really promising young talent, which looks a good mix after seeing everyone on the first testing session.

“I do not think there are any goals we should be setting ourselves and putting ourselves under any pressure, and we will just see what comes as we progress throughout the season.”

Coach Tony Benson added: “John is a very experienced player and can play to a high standard for 80 minutes if required.

“He is good at gaining momentum and picking holes through the defence. He can get the pack going forward and can rip the defence apart. John is a very good defender and has an excellent kicking game.”

Clough is Oxford’s ninth signing following Dave Ellison, Valu Bentley, Andrew Hoggins, Oliver Johnson, Alex Thompson, Andy McGrory, Michael Crabtree and Brett Robinson.