Deakin to give youth a chance

WITH their Division Two status assured following the drubbing of Eastmoor last week, Oldham St Anne’s coach Chris Deakin will continue to blood promising youngsters in the season’s remaining games — starting at high-flying Shaw Cross tomorrow (2.30pm kick-off).

John Deakin (thigh) is the only injury worry Saints have ahead of their trip across the Pennines to Dewsbury.

And after the 70-4 triumph last time out, the Higginshaw Road club has positive vibes at the moment.

High-profile arrivals Alan Williamson and Craig Highton are definitely Waterhead’s loss as much as Saints’ gain.

And with the second team on the brink of Division Three promotion glory in the North-West Men’s League, things are looking relatively rosy.

“There is no pressure on us now,” said Deakin. “We are safe in mid-table.

“Our under-18s have no game this week, so I may bring in one or two more young players into the side.”

Saddleworth Rangers are without a game in Division One, where Waterhead have the task of bouncing back from their 54-22 home defeat to Rochdale Mayfield last week.

Mick Whaley’s side are on home soil again, with mid-table Oulton Raiders travelling to Peach Road.