Dallimore rewarded with deal

JAMIE Dallimore, a points machine in Oldham RL Club's high-flying reserve team, has pledged his future to the Roughyeds.

The first player from John Hough's class of 2011 to be offered a professional contract, he has signed a deal which runs to November 30, 2012.

"I'm made up," said Dallimore, who will be 23 on Saturday.

He added: "I've been with the Roughyeds since last December and I always hoped it would lead to this.

"The funny thing is, I nearly didn't come. I was at Warrington Wolves in 2009 but I didn't stay long because I didn't like it there.

“When Oldham rang me late last year I wasn't at all sure what to do, but I gave it a go and from my first training session I felt comfortable at the club.

"We've had a fantastic season in the reserves. I'm sure we can go through the play-offs and win it."

Oldham's scouting network received a tip that the Wigan St Cuthbert's and BARLA Great Britain international half-back might be available and Hough's phone call proved fruitful.

"Jamie has since done everything we expected of him — and more," said Hough.

"He has played outstandingly well all season in the reserves, one of many to do so.

"He had a cracking first-team debut a few weeks ago and the hope is that next year he will step up to the first team on a regular basis."

If he succeeds, he will follow a well-trodden path taken by the likes of Ben Heaton, Chris Clarke, Matthew Fogarty, Shaun Robinson and Michael Ward.

"He's an exciting young player with a big future," said Oldham head coach Benson.

"He's the sort of player who can conjure something out of nothing. He's also calm, composed and capable of sticking to a structured plan."

Roughyeds have formally released centre Jack Bradbury, who has gone back to Saddleworth Rangers, and half-back Mick Diveney, who has returned to Waterhead.