ILKLEY’S players have been told to relax as they strive to end their worrying seven-match losing run.

The instruction comes from head of rugby Rhys Morgan as they prepare for Saturday’s away game at Wirral.

“The players have become anxious because we have not been winning and that has led to errors they wouldn’t normally make,” he said.

“It has cost us a number of scoring opportunities and I just want them to relax.

“Apart from the defeat at Huddersfield, all of the losses have been by narrow margins.

“We just have to keep believing in the way we play and take our chances when they present themselves.”

Ilkley have a couple of selection issues to resolve. Flanker Martyn Mitchell and winger Josh Thorneycroft are both away on holiday while Luke Freer, another winger, has a wrist injury.

Fit-again Dion Hendricks could earn a recall on the wing while there are a number of contenders for the back row spot.

Youngsters Jake Waring and Joe

Lowes are vying with the experienced Charlie Scott for the place.

Wirral won a thrilling game at Stacks Field 37-33 earlier this season and currently occupy fourth place in National North Three.

Ilkley face a tough test, but hope their luck will finally change.