Oldham edged out at Sefton

Oldham RUFC were edged out by just a single point at Sefton in their latest game in Counties ADM League 2.

Despite being second-bottom of the table, Oldham started with some gusto and took the lead following an Alex Jobson penalty, but then let Sefton into the game with territory and possession.

After continual pressure on the Oldham line they answered back firstly with a penalty and then a converted try to have a 10-3 lead.

Oldham’s scramble defence was good at times, but their general line speed was poor with Sefton making easy metres.

Oldham finally got some possession but wasted chances panicking at times when having ball in hand.

A poor clearance kick from Sefton gifted Oldham decent ball and finally with some space, the ball went to Sam Jones making his debut on the wing who, after making ground, fed Ryan Pickles to go over in the corner.

Unconverted the score was 10-8.

Oldham had found a way back into the game and then added another try before half time when Corey Kelly went over following a kick and chase.

Unconverted again, this took Oldham into a half time lead at 13-10.

With the rain continuing to come down the second half was a dog fight as the pitch became more cut up with conditions bringing mistakes.

Oldham managed another penalty from Jobson to further their lead to 16-10 and the game was there for the talking.

However, poor decision making and ball control kept the score the same for most of the second half until with eight minutes to go, Sefton attacked up the left hand side and following a lineout on the Oldham line with three defenders on the side of the ruck,

Sefton decided to pick and go and the single ball carrier went over the Oldham line with ease.

With a touchline conversion added that took Sefton back into the lead at 17-16.

With a few minutes left Oldham secured the ball on the Sefton right hand side and made their way to the 22 metre line.

With the back line calling for the ball, Oldham kept the ball tight when it needed to come out and as so many times this season, Oldham’s game management cost them the game.

The final whistle went with another game that Oldham so easily could and should have won.

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