Neil, we salute you

Date published: 25 November 2014


PLAYERS past and present saluted Oldham RL stalwart Neil Roden at his testimonial dinner.

Brothers Phil and Richard Joy represented the current squad, but it was mainly a night of nostalgia thanks to the reunion of players who, over the years, turned out alongside Roden in many of his record 296 Roughyeds' appearances, going back to the year 2000.

Roden’s favourite game was the 2001 play-off semi-final at Rochdale where Oldham battled back from 32-14 down with 18 minutes left to win 39-32.

It took Roughyeds into a Grand Final at Spotland against Widnes Vikings, who won 24-14 to earn their place in Super League.

Roden's loyal service to the club covered a total of 12 seasons in two spells as a player and another as coach of the under-20s side.

His one regret was that, in his four Grand Finals, he was unable to deliver silverware and promotion to a higher level.