Gutsy Oldham give in-form Knights a major fright

Jack Holmes scored for Oldham yesterday

Never-say-die Oldham gave Betfred League 1 leaders York City Knights a massive second-half fright before going down 10-6 in a gripping contest at Bootham Crescent.

The Knights edged the first half to lead 10-0 at half time, but Roughyeds dominated the second period and had a Luke Hooley try disallowed for obstruction before Jack Holmes crossed on a Hooley pass with nine minutes left.

Hooley added the goal points and the visitors then laid siege on the Knights line in search of the equalising try.

It was fierce, unrelenting stuff by two of the best defensive teams in the division but the Knights hung on although they looked out on their feet at the end.

Scott Naylor's men ran out of time to slip to yet another close defeat - their eighth in nine losses - although they looked the stronger, fresher side in the closing stages.

They did the club proud, but there are now three clubs on 30 points and to be sure of sticking hold of a play-off spot Roughyeds will have to beat Bradford Bulls at the Vestacare Stadium next Sunday and London Skolars away on Saturday week.

Win both those and they'll be in the play-offs, lose one of them and they'll probably miss out.

It's going to be a bumpy ride so hang on to your seat belts!

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.