Depleted first team denied third place

St Edwards OB 29, Oldham 0


A BONUS point in their final fixture of the season would have clinched Oldham first team third place in North Lancashire Division One.

But the Manor Park outfit was severely handicapped by the league rearranging the game for a day on which 20 Oldham players were on centre Phil Graham's stag-party in Spain, and another 26 were on tour in the Midlands. Factor in injuries and Oldham was down to the bare bones.

Back-row man Adam Waterhouse travelled back from the Midlands and seven players made their first-team debuts as Oldham kicked off into the teeth of a gale on the banks of the Mersey.

And they struggled to make any impression as the home side were able to find touch with 70-metre kicks every time Oldham threatened their 22.

Despite losing key winger and player of the season contender Phil Conroy after 10 minutes, Oldham defended superbly and an interval deficit of 12-0 promised an intriguing second half.

But fate seemed to conspire against the visitors. Despite pressure, the hosts extended their lead to 17 points. Oldham had given their all and their defensive heroics began to take their toll.

Two further tries in the last 10 minutes extended the lead to 29, but Oldham stuck to their task and great last-ditch tackles by Will Mellor and Phil Walmsley underlined their spirit.