Latics boosted by Holdsworth return

Andy Holdsworth . . . in action for Athletic at Mossley last night

ANDY Holdsworth made a successful comeback in the reserves’ 2-2 draw at Mossley last night.

The full-back, out since last November with tendonitis, played in midfield and came through a planned half-hour run-out at Seel Park without any problems.

On a night when Mossley’s new floodlights were used for the first time, Lee Duxbury’s side had to twice come back from being a goal down.

Mike Fish gave Mossley the lead after 18 minutes, his shot squirming through the hands of Greg Fleming.

The visitors ended the half the stronger and equalised when Djeny Bembo-Leta lashed in a brilliant 30-yard effort.

After Fish had headed against the crossbar, Mossley deservedly went back in front through Mike Oates.

Joe Colbeck restored parity, moving in from the right wing and shooting into the roof of the net with 20 minutes left.

Young trialist Alex Pursehouse, formerly of Tranmere, played at right-back.

Athletic: Fleming; Pursehouse, McDonald, Fodor, Lomax; Colbeck, Worthington (Crompton 46), Holdsworth (Kelly 29), Kompany (Hughes 54); Eaves, Bembo-Leta.


HUDDERSFIELD Town, one of the favourites for the npower League One title, have boosted their strike power by picking up Joe Garner on a six-month loan deal from Nottingham Forest.

Tranmere have signed Manchester City goalkeeper Gunnar Nielsen in a similar arrangement.