Victory reward for thirds

OLDHAM RUFC thirds produced a great team effort to see off their Rochdale counterparts 39-19, thanks mainly to a strong second-half showing.

Up against a strong wind in the opening period, Oldham took the lead after 12 minutes when Pete Scrivens scored between the posts. Danny Simpson added the conversion.

The home side then switched off, allowing Rochdale to respond with a converted effort.

Oldham nosed ahead after 20 minutes, Giggy Vatikions crossing with a typical bursting run from 15 metres out.

Rochdale were soon in again, though, taking a 14-12 lead before Matt Jakeman had an effort chalked off for grounding the ball short.

Simpson’s penalty wrested the lead back, Rochdale responded with a try and Phil Graham’s effort for Oldham — which he also goaled — gave the home team a 22-19 lead at the break.

Man-of-the-match Alan Pierre then went over, Graham converting, and further tries followed from Matt Jakeman and a super effort from Chris McKenzie.

The result wiped away some of the disappointments of the previous week, when Oldham had suffered a 85-6 hammering at Heaton Moor with a weakened team.

Mark Martin slotted over two second-half penalties for the visitors.

OLDHAM Vets defeated Bury 32-10, with Sam Horsfall enjoying a terrific game at centre.

Paddy Lockett kicked an early penalty for Oldham before Dominic Hall crossed close to the corner flag, Lockett converting.

A penalty for offside allowed Bury to score their first points, leaving the score at 10-3 as the teams changed ends.

Neil Forsythe was next over for Oldham, followed by Nick McDowell with John Selby converting both.

Bury fought back admirably and were rewarded with a converted try.

But the game was sealed when Dave Faulkner scored between the posts, Selby adding the conversion.

OLDHAM’S Colts won 10-5 at Newcastle, booking their place in the league cup semi-final for the second season running.

Jordan McEwan scored both tries.