Oldham RU upbeat for new challenge

OLDHAM RUFC kick off their North Lancs/Cumbria Division campaign at local rivals Aldwinians tomorrow with new-found confidence.

First-team player-coach Lee Kemp is convinced their fortunes will take an upturn following a number of key additions to their squad.

“When I look at the teams in our league, I definitely believe we can finish in the top five,” he said

Oldham, who finished just below half way in eighth place last season, have addressed pack problems with the capture of Nick Duncan and David Booth, while Ryan Jackson and South African John Hayes have returned to the club.

Duncan, a second or back-row forward, has played at a higher level for Nottingham Casuals, but recently took up a post as a radiographer at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

Prop Booth moves from Littleborough, Jackson, a hooker/back-row forward, returns after a spell playing for Sale Sharks’ academy team, and prop forward Hayes has resumed playing after three years out of the game.

And with pack pair John Souter and Jamie Edwards emerging through the ranks at Manor Park, Oldham have considerably more forward power than last season.

The only downside is that Chris Heptonstall and Rob Fryer are injured while Matt Brogan, another forward, won’t be available until the end of the month.

Oldham’s backs, which include the influential Gareth Barber, have been strengthened by the capture of winger/centre Ben Mayers from St Anne’s amateur RL club.

And full-back Will Mellor is back after leaving the Army.

Their presence will help offset the loss of Michael Ward and Luke Roscoe, who will miss much of the season because of university studies.

Said Kemp: “Looking at our first-team squad, we are definitely stronger than last season.

“We are delighted with the new players we have recruited while the youngsters given a chance last season will be all the better for the experience they gained.”


OLDHAM run four senior sides, which all play in leagues, as well as a successful colts team. They are looking for players of all ages and abilities and anybody interested should contact Steve Fox on 07766 497884.