Win marred by injuries

ATHLETIC’S victory over Rochdale in the Manchester Senior Cup came at a cost, as two players were taken to hospital as a result of injuries.

Goalkeeper Luke Simpson broke his nose and was knocked out after diving at the feet of an opponent early on in the 1-0 win, providing a rare run-out for 38-year-old goalkeeping coach Paul Gerrard in the home clash.

The youngster was taken to the Royal Oldham after coming round and was quickly released after an assessment.

James Tarkowski also suffered a suspected broken nose, after finding himself on the wrong end of a flying elbow.

The dazed centre-back, who was soon back at Boundary Park, will be checked over again later this week.

Matt Smith scored the only goal of the game for Lee Duxbury’s reserves side, heading home a Connor Hughes centre in the 19th minute off the underside of the crossbar.