Graham, Hamer in two-try romp

RUGBY UNION:

Mossley Hill 1st 18, Oldham RUFC 32

OLDHAM coach Guy Lovgreen had to make seven changes for this North Lancashire Division One fixture due to injury and unavailability — but his team responded in style..

Phil Graham and Martin Hamer scored a brace of tries apiece, but man-of-the-match for his all-round display was Rhys Jones, who showed great strength and ability as prop.

Oldham took the lead when Callum Meagram sent a long pass to Phil Conroy, who stepped outside his opposite winger and ran 50 metres before passing inside to the supporting Hamer to touch down in the corner.

Mossley hit back with a converted try and penalty for a 10-5 lead, but Hamer scored his second try to restore Oldham’s advantage.

Gareth Barber linked with Meagram, who sent Hamer scampering away to score under the posts. Meagram converted to make it 12-10.

The hosts dominated the next 10 minutes but against the run of play John Souter went over.

After the break Mossley reduced the deficit with a penalty. Stout defence gave Oldham some control and they extended their lead when Hamer drew the full-back and passed for Graham to race 22 metres and over the try-line.

Mossley scored a try of their own following an interception, but after Jamie Edwards drove forward and Ryan North set up the ruck, Mellor fed Barber, who slipped a neat pass to Graham for his second try.

Meagram converted and completed the scoring with a penalty kick.