Latics plagued by pitch problems

ATHLETIC have opened a book of condolence at Boundary Park for former player Ernie Cooksey, who last week lost his battle against cancer. Stephen Roberts, of the Football in the Community programme, is one of many to have already signed.

ATHLETIC are involved in a race against time to get their Boundary Park pitch in pristine condition for the new campaign.

Club officials are concerned about the patchy grass growth in a number of areas, especially as Oldham Roughyeds are due to play Doncaster on the ground a week on Thursday.

Chief executive Alan Hardy says the root cause of the trouble is baffling experts who have been summoned to offer their opinion.

Mr Hardy said: “We re-seed the pitch every year and have never experienced anything like this before.

“Ninety-per-cent of the surface is fine but there are certain areas where there has been weak grass growth.”

Specialist help was called for and a plan of action devised, but in the intervening fortnight there has been no improvement.

A sample of earth has now been removed from one of the affected areas and Athletic are waiting for the results of the analysis.

Mr Hardy continued: “It is a worry but, if we can find out the cause of the problem and treat it, I am confident there will be an improvement in the next 10 to 14 days.

“It is far from ideal because you would hope to have the pitch in tip-top condition by the start of a season.”

Mr Hardy added that the lack of sunshine since re-seeding and renovation work six weeks ago has not helped.

Athletic have finalised a friendly at Welsh Premier Premier League side Rhyl on Wednesday, July 16 (7.30pm).

Rhyl recently competed in the Inter-Toto Cup when they were eliminated by Irish side Bohemians.




Ernie Cooksey’s funeral takes place in St James’ Church, Jamaica Road, Bermondsey on Monday, July 21 (10.30am). The church is close to Millwall Football Club.



Iain and Bob Dowie, who both managed Cooksey, will each be giving an address and the service will be relayed outside the church as it is expected to be full.

The Cooksey family would like mourners to wear football shirts as they plan to make it a celebration of his life.

Cooksey’s father John has thanked the public of Oldham for their support which he has described as “overwhelming.”

Athletic are keeping a close watch on the weather with the forecast bleak for tomorrow when the players are due to play a cricket match at Delph.

Fans intending to attend the game are advised to check whether wickets will be pitched. They can do so by telephoning 0871 2262235 or visiting the club’s website.