Bramley back on the range

Bramley Buffaloes warm up for their first season in National League 3 with a friendly against Underbank Rangers at Victoria Rangers home ground in Eccleshill on Wednesday 14th April(kick-off 7.30pm).

The match against the Huddersfield side, one of the Buffaloes' league opponents, is an early homecoming for Bramley coach Phil Hellewell who has been training the Bradford amateur club for the past few years.

The match will also mark the opening of Victoria Rangers' brand new floodlights at their re-furbished Newlands ground. Entry on the night will be a nominal charge in aid of Cancer Research, and the Buffaloes will be sporting their brand new Co-op-sponsored shirt.

Coach Phil Hellewell commented: "Victoria Rangers is a fantastic club and they have been very amicable about my departure. I still have many friends and many fond memories of an amateur rugby league set up that is second to none.

"Now my attentions and those of fellow coach Richard Harrison are turning to May 1st and the game against Sheffield at Stanningley. Everything is geared up for that date.

"The response we've had from the players has been outstanding and it will be a tough test against Underbank next Wednesday. They are in our league and we play them early on so we'll find out where we are at very soon," added the former Bradford ace.

Victoria Rangers Chair John Hodgson said he was delighted to welcome Bramley. "Though we are both either side of the Leeds-Bradford border, we are in fact close neighbours, both geographically, and in terms of our commitment to, and involvement in our local communities.

"It's a historic night for both our clubs and we hope to welcome fans from all over this great rugby league area, just as we have junior players from Leeds as well as Bradford.

"We are delighted with Phil Hellewell's appointment at Bramley and hope to further develop our close links with the Buffaloes," added John.

The Buffaloes are urging supporters of Bradford Bulls and Leeds Rhinos to come along to the game as well as their own loyal band of fans.

Phil went on: "It would be great to all genuine rugby league fans at the game on Wednesday irrespective of club loyalties."

-For information on Bramley Buffaloes contact Cliff Spracklen on 07985530911

For information on Victoria Rangers ARLFC contact John Hodgson on 07974331691