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Swinton secure ‘one of the best’

20/10/2005

SWINTON Lions coach Paul Kidd labelled Mick Coates 'one of the best players in National League Two' after retaining the services of the hard working half back.

Coates has joined Wes Rogers, Lee Patterson, Marlon Billy, Dave Llewellyn, Ian Crabtree and Ian Watson by committing himself to Swinton's 2006 campaign.

Kidd said: "His defence is brilliant for a stand off and he's got one of the best kicking games in the league.

"He's very creative and you can't fault him at this level."

Kidd is in the process of negotiating with several other out of contract Swinton players.

On top of his hit-list is forward Ian Sinfield, who received a late call-up for Scotland's European Nations Cup international with Wales on Sunday.

Sinfield came off the bench while Swinton teammate Phil Joseph started at loose forward for Wales, who prevailed 22-14 in Bridgend.

Kidd said: "Ian had to cancel his plans to go to Old Trafford to watch his brother Kevin play in Saturday's Super League Grand Final.

"He is very close to his brother.

"But, knowing Ian, he would have packed his bags without giving the Grand Final a second thought.

"He's very committed to his rugby and he deserved his call-up. He never takes a backward step and he's had a great season for us.

"You couldn't wish for a more honest and hard working player.

"He is a very important player for us - as important as anyone else."