Bradford Dudley Hill will be without centre Alex Dickinson when they come face to face with National Conference Division One leaders Saddleworth at Parry Lane on Saturday.

The classy three-quarter will miss the rest of the season with a leg injury. However, club spokesman Jason Hoyland remains upbeat regarding Hill’s chances of knocking the Oldham side off their perch and boosting Hill’s own chances of cementing the third-place promotion spot.

“Alex will be a huge loss but we are now playing as a unit,” said Hoyland.

“With Josh Essex and Danny Thomas combining well at half-back, we are looking to continue our five-match unbeaten run."

At the other end of the table, West Bowling also have injury problems prior to their crucial relegation scrap against fellow strugglers Rochdale Mayfield at the Bankfoot Oval.

Stand-off Ryan Smith (ankle) and centre Todd Carter (thumb) are both missing but there is a modicum of good news with the return of the vastly experienced utility back Trevor Stead.

Bowling, who are searching for a precious double, must win to start a move out of the third-placed drop zone.

Head coach John Mitchell remains convinced that they will escape the trap-door, saying: “After last week’s success over Saddleworth, confidence is sky high. We have concentrated on defence during practice and the lads will be striving for a repeat performance in what will be a virtual four-pointer.”