Call of duty rules out Lepori

ITALIAN JOB: Richard Lepori.

OLDHAM go to Oxford tomorrow without full back Richard Lepori, who will be winning his fifth cap for Italy against Russia in Moscow.

Seeking a 13th win to clinch the League Leaders’ shield in their last game of the season, Roughyeds will be without suspended Adam Neal and Sam Gee, the rested Danny Langtree, long-term injury victim Steven Nield and now Lepori.

“It will be a fantastic experience playing in Moscow, but I’m gutted to be missing the Oldham game,” said Lepori. “I’ll be thinking about the lads in Oxford while we’re sightseeing in Red Square.

“They’re determined to get the job done and win the trophy before all our thoughts turn to the promotion game at Whitebank.”

Oldham coach Scott Naylor is taking nothing for granted this weekend: “People will expect us to win, but we’ve learned you can’t go anywhere and just assume things.

“It’s not a case of just getting through the game. I’ve got to pick a team next week for the game of the season at Whitebank so the lads who play at Oxford can stake a claim.”

Oxford won 38-16 at Hemel last time out and are keen to pull off the shock of the season.

“I put a lot of emphasis on finishing the season strongly,” said coach Tim Rumford. “It will be tough against the best team in the competition, but we’ve nothing to lose.”



ASSUMING the promotion final at Whitebank on Sunday week sees Oldham face Keighley Cougars, the game will NOT be all-ticket.

Gate receipts will be shared, so the clubs have decided on an open game. Admission prices will be adults £14, concessions £12, under-16s £3. Further details once the fixture is confirmed.