Comfort in the cold at Bower Fold

Photo: Paul Sterritt

HAPPY NEW HOME: Roughyeds fans settle in at Bower Fold for the opening game with the Broncos.

Oldham RL fans were freezing - but glad to call Bower Fold home as they side their side open their Championship campaign against London Broncos.

Though beaten 22-0, Roughyeds supporters gave the ground and what it had to offer the thumbs up on a raw early February afternoon.

The club struck a deal to play at Stalybridge Celtic FC’s ground when their Whitebank base was declared unsuitable for Championship rugby.

An avid follower of Oldham since he was a boy, Keith Shaw could not fault the surrounds.

He said: “It’s very good, I like it a lot. I came here in 2002 when we played St Helens in the Challenge Cup. I was impressed then and even more so now. It’s an impressive set up.”

Paul Wood wasn’t put off by the travel from his home in Chadderton, but will definitely put on another layer of clothing for the next home game against Dewsbury on February 21.

“It’s a good atmosphere and it’s hard to think of anyone who wouldn’t enjoy coming here. The ground looks really well, but I didn’t realise how bloomin’ cold it was going to be.”

John Howarth, from Mossley, said: “The ground is very impressive and the pitch is in good condition considering all the rain that fell on Saturday. Having somewhere to play that has four sides is a big help — it’s a proper ground.”

Howarth is hoping Oldham can adjust quickly to the step up to the Championship.

“The standard is a lot better,: he said. “Oldham had plenty of possession in the first half but never really looked like they would go over the line. What they did do, though, was keep going. They never gave up or let their heads drop.”