Oldham tonic as loan duo stay

Date published: 03 June 2014


STEVE Roper and Nathan Mason are staying at Whitebank even though their original one-month loan deals ended after last Sunday's game against London Skolars.

Oldham had already completed new arrangements with Rochdale Hornets (for Roper) and Huddersfield Giants (for Mason) which have extended the loans to the end of the season.

In each case a standard recall clause will allow theparent clubs to get their players back on demand.

Local lad Mason (20), a prop, has helped Roughyeds to win their last four games. Half-back Roper (27) made his debut at Gloucester and kept his place alongside Brett Robinson in Sunday's 46-16 trouncing of the Skolars at Whitebank.

Said chairman Chris Hamilton: "They have both made an impact here and we are delighted to have secured their services more permanently on loan extensions.”

Oldham go to Hemel Stags on Sunday (2.30pm kick off) where they could find themselves opposite a familiar face.

Paul March is player-coach at Keighley, but is currently serving a two-month RFL ban for verbally abusing match officials. Until July 8 he isn’t allowed in any stadium with his team, but can play for other teams. He has signed for Hemel on loan to keep himself fit - and is expected to make his first appearance for Hemel against Oldham.