Away-day absentees proving so costly

ST EDWARDS 20 OLDHAM RUFC 10

RUGBY UNION: THIS was another case of what might have been for Oldham, who have the ability to dominate North Lancashire Division One but continue to suffer because of constant changes of personnel, particularly in away games.

These switches mean Oldham do not have regular pairings in vital positions.

Half-back is typical of the problem, with Gareth Barber unable to dictate the play until he has a scrum half with a quick, reliable pass.

Last season, in a stronger division, Oldham’s forwards dominated scrums with a steady push, but now they are being turned through 90 degrees and handing over possession to the opposition.

St Edwards, the current leaders, wheeled the scrum throughout, but the referee did nothing.

Yet it was Oldham who took the lead after 13 minutes when Barber landed a well-struck penalty from 40 metres.

The home side were awarded several penalties before second row Mike Marshall charged over the line to score a try converted by Martin McGeough.

Ten minutes into the second half, Saints scored another forwards’ try through number eight Eamon Hughes. The touchdown was converted to make it 14-3.

Oldham fought back well, resulting in a fine try from Nick Hackman, who picked the ball from the base of the scrum and darted through a gap. Barber converted to reduce the deficit to four points.

However, despite looking dangerous, Oldham conceded two soft penalties and the home side pulled away again.

Oldham will need to be more focused when they entertain Witton at home on Saturday.