Oldham pray for goals ahead of Stevenage visit

Stevenage visit Boundary Park this weekend

Stevenage visit Boundary Park this weekend as Keith Curle attempts to steer his sinking vessel back towards safety.

Last week's 0-0 draw against Mansfield was a third clean sheet in four outings, a sign of slight improvement at least on the defensive front for the 23rd placed Latics.

Following the game, Curle said: “It's a third clean sheet in four so it's a starting point and shows we are trying to build a foundation whereby we are difficult to beat. That's not bad as clean sheets were at a premium last season.”

Going forward however, less cause for optimism - Oldham have two goals in six league matches and Curle’s attempt to rejiggle his strike force last week, dropping goalless forward Hallam Hope, didn’t bear fruit.

Hope may now be in line to return on Saturday.

Curle, expecting a reaction from his player said: “Some players can accept and take the house brick treatment - solid, straight to the point, doesn't bounce.

It probably hurt but it's knowing the players and I know Hallam can take that. I know Hallam will react to that.”
Opponents Stevenage might only be 15th in the table, but they’ll be making the 192 mile journey north in high spirits, unbeaten in four matches in all competitions.

This upturn in form includes wins against Hartlepool and Oxford United as well as a commendable draw on the road against second place Harrogate Town.

In other news, Latics young talent Harry Vaughan will be looking to kick on following his international debut for Republic of Ireland Under 19s.

The call-up caused the 17 year old to miss last week's trip to Field Mill, but he’s now back in contention.

Vaughan, who scored his first Latics goal in the recent 2-1 defeat to Harrogate, said: “To get the call up was an unreal achievement, honestly a year ago I couldn’t have dreamed of being where I am now.”

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