Young Oldham set for lift-off

OLDHAM’S scholarship squad have had three of their four fixtures confirmed, giving fans the opportunity to see what the club hope will be “stars of the future”.


The under-18s take on Hunslet at the South Leeds Stadium on Monday, July 18 (8pm kick-off) and also travel to play Keighley at Cougar Park on Monday, August 1 (8pm).



The game against Leigh at the Whitebank Stadium has been rubber-stamped for Thursday, August 25 (7.30pm), leaving the only outstanding fixture to be confirmed as the home clash with Workington. That game could take place as early as Wednesday, June 22, with exact details expected to be finalised today.



Admission prices have been set at the same level as for reserve matches — £4 adults and £2 concessions — and club chairman Chris Hamilton hopes the club’s young blood will receive plenty of vocal support from fans.



“We want people to get along to cheer the lads on,” he said. “They have trained very hard to get to this stage, making a big commitment travelling in from towns across the North-West.



“Phil Costin (the team’s coach) has done a great job and everyone is looking forward to the games.”



Roughyeds fans, who are missing their first-team rugby fix this weekend, are also urged to get along to support the reserves as they take on Sheffield Eagles at the Whitebank Stadium on Saturday (2.30pm).



John Hough’s side are currently going well, sitting fourth in the Under-23s Reserve Championship table with games in hand on teams above them.