Deakin plotting play-off success

FORTUNATE . . . Paul Deakin

WITH the title safely tucked away, Oldham St Anne’s ‘A’ are switching their attention to the North-West Men’s League Division Three play-off semi-finals.

Paul Deakin’s side face their Rochdale Mayfield counterparts at Higginshaw Road on Saturday (2pm).

Having carried all before them this season, Saints are determined to put in one big last push.

Boasting only one defeat in 18 league matches, Deakin’s team has been the dominant force in the division.

And it has been through a mixture of youthful exuberance from the under-18s and experienced older heads that has seen them rise to the summit.

Deakin said: “It is a testament to the younger players that they’ve been able to slot in at any time, and also to the coaches that the players know the system.

“Above all else it has been a great team effort from all the open age players, as well as the under-18s.

“The players have rolled up their sleeves and got on with it, and they’ve got their rewards.”

Looking forward to this weekend, Deakin predicts a no-holds-barred showdown.

He said: “Mayfield are a good side and I can see it being a bit tasty.

“It is going to be a physical game and a derby adds more spice. Every one of my players is fit and available, and we’re going for it.”