Double tonic for Oldham RUFC

OLDHAM RUFC have received a double boost as they prepare for the start of their new campaign in North Lancs/Cumbria division.

Two key personnel - player coach Steve Molloy and senior player Gareth Barber - have pledged their futures to the Manor Park club.

Molloy is back in the coaching hot seat for a third season while player-of-the-year Barber, who had been a target for other clubs, is staying and has been named first-team captain.

Iain McCorquodale remains director of coaching and the coaching staff also comprises Ivan Simister, Dennis Eddleston and Lee Kemp who is having to quit playing through injury.

Oldham resume training tonight at Manor Park from seven o’clock and they are looking for new players at all levels. They have four senior sides, including the vets, who all play in leagues.

The first team, which finished mid-table in North Lancs/Cumbria division, will be looking to build on last season and mount a promotion challenge.

Molloy’s hope is that the many young players, who were blooded last season, will have benefited from the experience gained after stepping up from the club’s academy.