First-team errors punished

HEATON MOOR 43, OLDHAM RUFC 14
RUGBY UNION: LAPSES in concentration and failure to make the most of attacking situations meant Oldham ended up on the wrong end on an unflattering scoreline.

The Manor Park men trailed 24-7 at half-time, despite camping on the Moor line for extended periods.

Mark Goodman scored their only try, finishing off a move involving Phil Graham and Gareth Barber.

More territorial advantage was squandered early in the second half and when Oldham trailed 38-7, their prospects looked bleak.

However, Barber’s try following a good interchange with Mark Brocklehurst lifted spirits.

Oldham will need to improve on this display on Saturday when they host Furness at Manor Park.

Furness are a place higher in the North Lancs and Cumbria Division than bottom club Oldham, so this is a must-win fixture for a team boasting a nice blend of youth and experience.


Oldham 2nd 67, Broughton 1st 10
LEAGUE positions suggested there would be little in this game, but Oldham dominated Broughton, who succumbed completely after having a man sent off in the second half.

Brian Massey touched down in the first 10 minutes after a strong, mazy run, then centre Jason Green went between the posts following a charge down and catch.

A couple of stupid infringements in front of the Oldham posts gave the visitors the chance to get some points on the board, but the home side’s strong running set up Matt Jakeman to power over line.

Broughton’s centre replied, but this was the last time the Oldham line was breached.

Soon after, Andy Birch clashed with a Broughton player whose actions led to his dismissal.

Two further first-half tries by Massey and Scott Danby killed the game and, to make matters worse for the visitors, Oldham turned to the bench to introduce the talents of John Maslen, Chris Heptonstall and Gaz Phelan.

Oldham’s back line was extremely impressive and Nathan Taylor, Maslen, Will Mellor (2) and Chris Heap (2) all crossed over.

Scott Danby produced six conversions, but the man-of-the-match award went to young Massey, who never stopped working and was rewarded with a hat-trick of tries.