ARE there really only 14 people who play rugby league in Bolton?

That's how many players Bolton's only senior rugby league team could muster last week.

Bolton Mets have been scraping through with barely enough players to make up a team for several months and they could fold unless they get an influx of new players soon. It would be a great shame because not only do Bolton Mets keep the rugby league flag flying in Bolton but they also play at a high level in the North West Counties League.

No way is Bolton a rugby league town but, by the same token, it would be wrong to think there is no interest in the sport here. Plenty of players had to pack in when Bolton's two other senior teams disbanded a few years ago and lots of youngsters played the game before they left school last year.

Those people should be warned. Bolton Mets know who you are and they are coming to get you. Why not make it easy on yourself and offer your services first by contacting new player-coach Chris Brown on Bolton 457948.