Season 2003

Sensational 79^th minute try by Steve Dooler to beat Hull KR in May.

Featherstone Rovers RLFC Ltd went into administration on 14 November 2002 and there was a real threat that Rovers would not be around for the 2003 season. Thankfully due to an injection of cash from a benefactor Rovers were able to pay off HRMC and enter into a creditor’s voluntary arrangement.  This clearly cast a shadow of uncertainty over the club and there was a wholesale change of playing staff.  The transfers of Jamie Rooney to Wakefield and Neil Lowe to Salford were two among many departures.  Andy Kelly was able to bring in 8 new recruits and there was still a supply of junior players from the academy team.

Results were mixed with decent home form but some very disappointing results away from home.  Indeed Rovers didn’t win an away league match all season.  Unlike previous seasons Rovers form dropped as the play off places were being decided, nevertheless Rovers could still qualify if they won the last home game against Oldham.  Unfortunately they couldn’t pull it off and lost 14-19.  Captain Richard Chapman notched up his 100^th try for the club and led from the front.  Jamie Stokes again showed his finishing power in racking up 22 tries in a struggling side.  However, collectively and notably in defence away from home the team just did not deliver.