Roughyeds go through pain barrier

DANNY Grimshaw played against the odds against Whitehaven

TALES have emerged of how Oldham RL bodies were pushed to the limits in the dramatic win that secured a second season of Kingstone Press Championship rugby.

Several players turned out carrying injuries, helping Roughyeds to a thrilling 20-18 win against Whitehaven in the 32nd game of a long, 33-match season.

Danny Langtree (shin) and Danny Grimshaw (hernia) didn't train last night when the squad was forced indoors because of the tornado that swamped the region.

Liam Thompson scored the second of Oldham's three tries in the last home game of the season despite going through the pain barrier with a shoulder injury.

He was better than expected last night and could have a chance of playing at Dewsbury on Sunday in the final game.

Grimshaw is definitely out and Langtree is unlikely to be in the 17 to travel to the Tetley's Stadium.

Said Oldham coach Scott Naylor: "All three of them deserve immense credit for what they did last Sunday when they knew their club needed them in such an important game.

"I can't speak too highly of them. 'Langers' (Langtree) was in a lot of pain, but he battled on for most of the game and he's suffering for it now.

"I've no doubt he'll want to play at Dewsbury, but it's looking extremely unlikely at this stage.

"As for 'Grimmer' (Grimshaw) he played with a serious hernia. He's been unable to walk since Sunday and he'll need a close-season operation to put it right in readiness for next year.

"He put himself on the pitch because he knew we needed him. That showed the sort of bloke he is and the sort of spirit and camaraderie we have in the dressing room.

"There's better news on 'Thompy' (Thompson) who will possibly be okay for weekend."

Commenting on the club's re-signing of Thompson for 2017, Naylor said they would be working together for the fifth season and continuity was important; a major factor in the retention of most of the squad.

He added: "Liam has been outstanding this season and it's brilliant to know we'll have him again next year.

"With the possible exceptions of Kenny Hughes and Adam Clay, he's probably had more game time than anyone else in the squad.

"He's played loose-forward, second-row and he's even propped at times, but wherever he plays he does a great job.

"He's developed this season into a first-class Championship forward, He's been at the club a long time ­- like a lot of the lads ­- but he's still only 24.

"I expect him to get better and better and I know he's going to be a top player for us next season."