Roughyeds ground deal ‘close’

OLDHAM Rugby League Club is close to announcing where the club will play home games next season.

The newly-promoted Roughyeds expect to reveal the venue in the next 24 hours, along with ticket prices. Season tickets will to go on sale immediately afterwards.

“We’ve been very active over the last few weeks,” said Oldham chairman. “But it wasn’t as straightforward as a lot of people might think.

“I’m happy to report we are now close to hitting the finishing line - that in itself will be a significant development for everyone connected with the club and supporters.”

Oldham have played at Whitebank Stadium for the past five and a half seasons, but it doesn’t meet minimum standards for the Championship.

Talks have taken place between Hamilton and his Athletic counterpart Simon Corney over the use of SportsDirect.com Park next season, and Ashton United’s Hurst Cross ground is also a possible alternative.



::Oldham’s achievement last season is covered extensively in the new Rugby League Yearbook.

The book headlines its League One review of the season with “Roughyeds rejoice” and describes Oldham’s season as a “hugely impressive campaign”.

“Naylor didn’t have the established names of some of his rivals, but he maintained a strong element of continuity and stuck to his mantra of giving young players a chance,” the book continues.

“He also adopted innovative tactics not used elsewhere, including the regular use of three different hookers during a match.”