Manor men give Carlisle a fright

RUNNING THROUGH . . . Ryan Pickles heads for the line to put Oldham back in front

OLDHAM Rugby Union firsts could hold their heads up high, despite losing 31-22 at home to impressive North Lancashire and Cheshire League leaders Carlisle.

The high-fliers were good. Playing an attractive style of rugby at an admirable level of pace and intensity, it was obvious why they are running away with the division.

Carlisle's instinct was sharper than Oldham's and they look a good bet for an immediate return to the next level.

There was plenty to like about the hosts' display, though, at a dank Manor Park that was still feeling the effects of the fire at Maple Mill.

PASSION

Oldham played with a level of passion and commitment that has been missing far too often this season. The scrum was excellent and it is doubtful whether Carlisle would have been shunted off their own ball before this term.

The line-out was wobbly when it mattered most, and the kicking tended to play to Carlisle's strength as their back three ran the ball with interest.

However, the main difference between the two sides was fitness, and that is something Oldham must work on. There were big changes in personnel for Oldham, while players were asked to fill in at different positions. New dad Gareth Barber was absent, while Charlie Roscoe had joined the broken hand brigade.

Loose-head prop Bobby Cullen was struggling with an ankle injury, but took his place on the bench.

Oldham started well. Despite spilling the ball with the line at their mercy, they drove Carlisle off the ball and Rob Froggatt charged over. Callum Megram added the conversion.

Carlisle levelled when Jason Israel improved Robbie James' try.

Oldham were back in front when winger Ryan Pickles evaded a number of tacklers to score an excellent try. The conversion was missed, but a 12-7 lead was extended by three points thanks to Megram's penalty on the half-hour mark.

Carlisle responded with centre Dan Holmes scoring next to the posts and, with the conversion added, Oldham led by a point.

The fitness and organisation of the Carlisle boys showed in the second half as did the impact of the spiralling penalty count.

Israel's boot put Carlisle in front, after which Oldham, who had defended stoutly, allowed the visitors to put the game out of reach with a couple of Holmes tries, converted by Israel. Oldham stuck to the task and had the last word when Will Mellor darted over for a well deserved try that Megram converted.