New signing Martyn Reilly is eager for the chance to prove himself in the Championship, after making the switch to The Tetley’s Stadium from Halifax.
Reilly made a handful of first team appearances at The Shay and caught the eye with some outstanding displays at Reserves level.
“There is a great set of lads here,” he said.
“The first couple of sessions were spent on testing, and things like that, but now we’re on with the physical side of pre-season.
“I am enjoying it so far, we’re all ripping in, and the lads have made me feel really welcome.”
Reilly could make his debut for the club in The Fleetmaster Driving Academy Heavy Woollen Derby on Boxing Day, where he will be aiming to stake an early claim for regular selection.
“Sometimes it’s hard to come through and not get the game time you want, and that’s what happened at Halifax,” he explained, “but hopefully I can achieve my goals here.
“I feel I can bring something slightly different to the team, and hopefully I can show that when the season starts.”
Reilly has also provided an insight into his favoured playing positions.
“I played all over last season, but mostly in the middle and in the back-row.
“I prefer to play in the middle; you have more freedom in that position and can take the ball and run with it.”
Reilly echoed the sentiments of his team-mates by admitting that competition across the Championship will be tougher than ever in 2018.
But the former Halifax man believes that Dewsbury can surprise a few teams.
“It is the toughest Championship I have seen, and of course that means it won’t be easy.
“There are some fantastic teams in there now, and we’ll have to be at our best to compete with them.
“Obviously, the full-time team element is becoming more of a factor, but I really do believe in the squad that we have.
“I think we can surprise a few people next season and, whilst it would be great to get in the top four, I think another aspiration for us would be to the best semi-professional team.”
