Seconds win Union derby

OLDHAM RUFC’S second team defeated the Manor Park club’s third string for the second time this season in division four east of the North West Intermediate League.

The eagerly-awaited derby saw the seconds emerge 33-15 victors to complete a league double following their earlier 18-8 success.

It was a tribute to the work of groundsman Alan Hollingsworth that the game went ahead despite sub-zero temperatures.

The second team established a 14-0 advantage through tries from Will Mellor and Steve Connolly, both of which were converted by Danny Simpson.

Phil Graham made an interception before releasing Mellor to score by the posts, while Connolly barged his way over the line following a ruck.

But the third team refused to concede defeat and hit back with tries from Anthony Steadman and Dean McEwan to reduce the deficit to 14-12 at the break.

The third team took the lead after 55 minutes as they seized advantage of having an extra man after Connolly was sin-binned.

Full-back Mark Fitton made a dazzling run to set up Mike Douthwaite who sprinted clear to score as the third team edged 15-14 ahead.

Connolly’s return sparked a revival from the second team who regained the lead when the forwards drove over the line, with Nathan Taylor claiming the try.

The third team applied considerable pressure, but couldn’t find a way over the try line as the seconds had to defend doggedly.

It was not until five minutes from time that the seconds sealed victory when Mellor set up Matty Collins to score, with Joe Rea kicking the conversion.

They were given a flattering margin of victory when they scored again in the dying seconds through Michael Collinge, with Jordan McEwan adding the two extra points.