Four-try Oldham forced to hang on

MARK BROCKLEHURST . . . two-try hero for Oldham RU.

TOC H 22, OLDHAM 28
RUGBY UNION: THE previous encounter between these two sides was a high-scoring affair and this latest match – played at Manor Park when Toc H’s ground was declared unfit – produced similar fireworks but a different winner in Oldham.

After picking up a bonus point for scoring four tries, Oldham moved up to third from bottom in North Lancs and Cumbria Division.

But they had to stave off a late rally from determined opponents whose forwards were particularly effective with rolling mauls.

Oldham performed well in all other aspects of the game and they took the lead when Chris Pickles, playing alongside Gary Phelan, celebrated his 44th birthday with the opening try, touching down following a flowing move. Mark Goodman converted.

A second try soon followed after Gareth Barber collected a clearance kick.

Barber fed hooker Dean McEwan, who made a fine break before feeding Mark Brocklehurst to score. Goodman converted again.

At the other end, Toc H threatened to break through, but were denied by several last-gasp challengers until Alan Jackson crossed the line following a rolling maul.

The referee’s confirmation of the try sparked a punch-up after which Toc H second-row forward Paul Cooper was dismissed and Oldham’s Nick Hackman had to leave the field following treatment by physio Lorna Jepson, to be replaced by Jake Watson.

Even though they were a man down, Toc H continued to dominate the forward exchanges and it was no surprise when captain Mike Hyde scored a try converted by Paul Bishop to reduce the deficit to 14-12.

But the second half started just as the first half had and Oldham extended their lead with tries by Ian Sinfield and Brocklehurst, both converted by Goodman.

However, tries in the 56th and 70th minutes by Toc H set up a grandstand finish and there were some frayed nerves before Oldham held on for a 28-22 verdict.

Oldham’s next opponents are high-flying Fleetwood, who visit Manor Park on Saturday.