New faces drive optimism

OLDHAM RL hope the feel-good factor created by ambitious squad strengthening will be reflected in significantly increased season-ticket sales during the run-up to Christmas.

George Tyson is the sixth new signing - behind Scott Leatherbarrow, Ben Davies, Nathan Chappell, David Hewitt and Adam Neal - to add to the 15 from last season's squad who are retained.

At not inconsiderable expense, Roughyeds continue to look for more quality additions to complete a squad that can do well in a 2017 Championship that is expected to be the most competitive yet.

The return of 2015 promotion heroes Neal and Tyson, each after a season at Sheffield Eagles, has been hugely lauded by fans on forums and social media.

"Compared to last year, we are well ahead of schedule and preparations for 2017 are going well," said Chris Hamilton, who can also point to a major positive in the early agreement with Stalybridge Celtic for the continued use of Bower Fold.

The decision to freeze match-day and season-ticket prices, the latter on a pro-rata basis because they now include the Summer Bash derby against Rochdale, has also been well received.

Season tickets provide two games free, stretching to three if the team earns the right to have four games at Bower Fold in the Championship Shield.

Standing: adults £190; concessions £154; under-16s £25; Seats: adults, £210; concessions £178; under-16s, £35 (valid until December 23).

They can be purchased by cash or cheque at the club's Whitebank office between 9.30am and 1.30pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays and between 9.30am and 3.30pm on Fridays.

Cheques payable to ORLFC can be sent to Oldham RLFC, Whitebank Stadium, Whitebank Road, Oldham OL8 3JH (07904898177).