Oldham pay the penalty

RUGBY:

OLDHAM RU went down to a 34-7 defeat at Trafford MV in North Lancashire Division One.

After an excellent victory over Bury in the previous game, Oldham hoped to add another win to their collection.

But following a good opening 20 minutes, they gave away a string of penalties and paid the price.

Oldham became predictable in running the ball and forced too many passes, while the forwards were penalised on several occasions at the ruck and maul.

Ian Sinfield came into the side at centre for Rob Froggatt, while Jordan Green replaced Phil Graham at scrum half.

Graham is currently sidelined with torn ankle ligaments.

The game started at a frantic pace and MV took the lead after five minutes with a Ben Wheeler penalty goal from halfway.

After a spell of prolonged pressure Oldham hit back with a well-worked try.

From a line-out the ball was sent to Dean McEwen, who fed Gareth Barber to cross and convert, handing the visitors a 7-3 lead after 18 minutes.

But just four minutes later Nick Carver crashed over in the corner and Wheeler goaled.

On the stroke of half-time Oldham gave away three penalties and found themselves 19-7 behind at the break.

The second period belonged to the hosts, who scored two further tries, with Wheeler adding a conversion and penalty goal.