ILKLEY’S players are being urged to stay patient as they seek to end their worrying run of six straight defeats.

Head of rugby Rhys Morgan insists that his squad are putting in the hard work on the training field to try and turn things around.

Although there is no immediate danger of relegation from National Three North, the longer the run goes on the more the anxiety will grow.

Morgan said: “I really feel for the players. We haven’t suddenly become a bad team and they are all putting in the hard work.

“Some of the defeats came in games we could or should have won, such as Cleckheaton, Waterloo, Kendal and Rossendale.

“But we have to accept what has happened. It is important we are patient so that when our luck changes, we can take advantage.

“It is important we don’t become anxious and try to force things.”

Ilkley had three second rows and two wingers ruled out of last week’s 59-7 defeat by unbeaten leaders Huddersfield so Morgan is glad to see locks Adam Newman and Harry Adams available again along with winger Lewis Johnston for the home clash with Sandal.

“It won’t be an easy game because Sandal will be wanting to win what is another derby clash.

“However, if we keep believing I am sure our luck will change,” said Morgan.