Ever in our hearts!

KEEPING the faith . . . John Flanagan (left) and Phil Sykes are backing Athletic from the Philippines

EXPAT John Flanagan is so proud of his team he’s set up an OAFC supporters club in his adopted country — the Philippines.

After rallying support among the locals in Cainta, in the province of Rizal, the former drama teacher and DJ from Watersheddings is relying on the old wireless to hear updates on Latics’ FA Cup fifth-round clash with Everton.

John, known in Oldham as DJ Ben Murphy can’t watch the game where he is. John, a fan since 1955, can’t wait for the big game — even if he and his friends have to listen on the radio.

He and mate Phil Sykes — another Oldhamer — set up a supporters club and are trying to gather members.

John said: “We are eight hours ahead of the UK. We can listen to BBC Radio 5 out here.

“I reckon if Latics play to their full potential, they could get a draw but I’m going to stick my neck out and say it will be 2-1.”



CUP fever was high at Dorothy May Nursery as children got in the mood for football yesterday.
The kind-hearted youngsters and staff at Stockport Road in Lydgate wore their brightest blues to celebrate Blue Day for Dr K.

They each brought in £1 to wear blue clothes and they also paid to guess how many sweets were in a jar.