Winger makes a big impact

Photo: Alan Howarth

STEPHEN ROBINSON

ATHLETIC could seek to snap up lively winger Liandro Martis after his scoring effort last night.

The fleet-footed former Feyenoord youth, who has guested at Barrow, Buxton and Tranmere this summer, starred as a trialist in the defeat to Preston and struck home the hosts' only goal.

Peterborough midfield man Harry Beautyman also played last night while on trial, in a side that featured new men Ollie Banks, Peter Clarke and Cameron Burgess.

"He did okay, but it was tough for Harry," said Athletic boss Stephen Robinson of Beautyman (24), who had earlier in the off-season been linked with Swindon. "We are still looking at players. He is a good footballer and we will see what happens with that one.

ELECTRIC

"Liandro showed good signs. It is hard to judge a boy on one half, but he has electric pace.

"A club like Oldham has to pull a few rabbits out of hats, as we can't pay big money others can. They are the players we have to find and we could have unearthed one."

As for last night's game, which Athletic lost 3-1, Robinson hinted that he may try to emulate North End's methods of success.

"Peter Clarke and Cameron Burgess were both excellent against a very good Preston team who are physical and well-versed in how they play. They went long when they needed to and played when they needed to," he said.

"It was a real big test and if we need to aim at what we want to do in this division, they are a great example.

"We are at the start of what we are trying to do and they are two years into it, being very successful too."