Ground sought for Batley game

Photo: Tim Bradley

Drainage problems at Bower Fold

OLDHAM'S next scheduled home game against Batley Bulldogs on Sunday, May 21 will have to be played away from Bower Fold because of work on the pitch.

Roughyeds won't play at the Stalybridge venue again until Hull KR's visit on Sunday, June 11 which will end a spell of almost two months on the road for Scott Naylor's men.

Fixtures were arranged initially to provide for routine summer work on the pitch, but a period of 'keep off the grass' has had to be extended following unexpected draining problems during last winter.

Oldham chairman Chris Hamilton said: "We are looking for another venue in which to play the Batley game and fans will be informed as soon as we've got one.

"We've got an excellent working relationship with Stalybridge, whom we are trying to help so they can solve a problem which will ultimately benefit both clubs.

'HOLDING'

"It's thought the pitch could have been holding water due to a layer of thatch that has appeared under the surface, but whatever the cause it needs putting right before next winter."

Oldham's next two games are away at Dewsbury Rams and London Broncos, then Roughyeds will have a free Sunday, May 14 because that day will accommodate the sixth round of the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup, in which they have no further interest after their 30-4 defeat at Featherstone. See Pages 30-31.

The Batley game on May 21 will be relocated, then it's Summer Bash versus Rochdale at Blackpool on Saturday, May 27 and Swinton Lions away on Sunday, June 4.

Roughyeds have also to fix a new date for the outstanding league game against Dewsbury Rams, which was postponed because of waterlogging.