Narrow defeat for RUFC

Rugby union

OLDHAM RUFC produced another sterling show against one of the promotion-chasing teams in North Lancs/Cumbria division, but for the second successive week just fell short as they went down 19-12 to Kirkby Lonsdale.

After losing by one point to second-placed Tyldesley, Oldham gave Kirkby Lonsdale, who are third, a run for their money at Manor Park on Saturday.

It was a case of the Cumbrian club taking the chances while Oldham failed to make the most of their openings.

After an evenly-contested opening, Kirkby took a 25th minute lead with a try from winger Dave Barton, goaled by John Hadwin.

Oldham were on level terms within three minutes when Andy Gorey scored after a well-worked move involving Gareth Barber and Mark Goodman who added the conversion.

Oldham took the lead five minutes after the restart when, following a third tap penalty in a row, scrum-half Peter Scrivens released the impressive Rob Fryer who drove over the line.

Kirkby were soon on level terms after a move along the backs ended with Barton darting over to make it 12-12.

And the visitors sealed victory on the hour with a bizarre try which began with Oldham pack man Paddy Farnan charging down a clearance on the opposing line.

Kirkby grabbed possession and moved the ball the whole length of the field before second-row forward Matthew Hughes touched down and Hadwin added the two extra points.