CROSFIELDS ARLFC have appointed former player Jimmy Williams as head coach.

Williams, who replaces Mark Brennan, will be assisted by former Crosfields, Warrington Wolves and Widnes Vikings prop forward Steve Pickersgill, with team support from Liam Walsh and Rob Doherty.

"It has been a long-term ambition of mine to coach Crosfields," said Williams.

"Although it has come earlier than envisaged, I am looking forward to the challenge of progressing the club in the NCL, while bringing through juniors into the open-age set up."

Chairman Mike Donnison said: "Jimmy came through the junior ranks at Crosfields and knows what the club is about.

"In his playing days, he was a very skilful half-back, who could read the game and play an entertaining brand of rugby.

"The discussions I have had with him, give me the confidence that he will pass those assets onto his players, giving us another successful season in 2018."

Williams is pleased to have Pickersgill alongside him.

"Pickers has professional experience, which we will use to ensure best practices are in place to maximise our results," said Williams.

"Also, his hands-on experience in the NCL, will help me throughout the season and beyond."

Ian Boden will continue as the Alliance coach, with Andrew "Franco" Campbell as his assistant.

Winter training is on Tuesday at Woolston Grange, from 7.15pm-8.15pm and Thursday at Abbey Farm, Burtonwood, from 7pm-8pm.