Bulldogs wary despite Rams shake-ups

Steve Crossley (broken collarbone) remains sidelined for Dewsbury Rams, who will be under new leadership from Paul Broadbent for Sunday's game following Warren Jowitt's resignation on Wednesday.

Despite that disruption, Batley Bulldogs coach John Kear is expecting a fierce test.

He said: "First of all, it's a derby game, and derby games are always tough. Secondly, there'll be a new guy at the helm for them, and while he might not affect structures and systems at this point, he'll certainly affect their motivation."

Kear added: "Dewsbury have got two good centres in Ayden Faal and Ryan Esders. They're both strong running and can play with the ball in hand.

"Their half backs possess pretty good kicking games, and their back three offer great strike. You've also got to be aware that there are some aggressive, strong-running forwards in there.

"They're a good team and they've performed really well at home this year. We're preparing for Dewsbury at their very best."

Bulldogs are likely to be unchanged from last Thursday's 62-6 win over Swinton Lions.