Oldham tie up Roper for 2015

Oldham RL Club's midfield maestro Steve Roper is the latest Roughyeds' player to sign a new contract for 2015.

Following the lead set by Josh Crowley, Danny Langtree, Kenny Hughes and new-boy Jarrod Ward, the goal-kicking half-back put pen to paper.

"I'm enjoying my rugby at Oldham," said Roper (27) who joined Roughyeds on loan from derby rivals Rochdale Hornets last April.

He made his debut in a 30-22 win at Gloucester All Golds on May 25 and never looked back, playing in the remaining 15 games and taking over goalkicking duties from club skipper Lewis Palfrey.

Oldham negotiated his release from Rochdale and he became a fully-fledged Roughyeds' player on a deal until the end of the season.

Said coach Scott Naylor: "Since he first came to the club, Steve's been like a breath of fresh air and we are delighted to re-sign him.

"He's very professional and from the day he first walked into the club, after six years at Rochdale, it was quite obvious he was delighted to be with us.

"He's a very good player, but he's also a great lad to have around the dressing room. He likes a laugh, but as soon as it's switch-on time he automatically goes into game mode.”