Oldham RU beaten at champions-elect Trafford

Oldham RUFC were defeated 24-5 at table-topping champions-elect Trafford MV.

The first 20 minutes, played in heavy rain, were a cautious time with lots of kick tennis between the two 20 metre lines as neither side built any sustained pressure.

As the weather brightened, MV opened up and neat hands created an overlap that was taken for a fine try in the corner.

As half time approached two more were added by forwards from close range, before Alex Jobson provided some of his customary magic.

Receiving a kick on the half way line he feigned a return kick and sped between the surprised front two chasers, stepped past two more and then out-paced the remaining defence for a fine solo try in the corner.

The second half looked ominous for Oldham as MV soon notched their fourth try to secure the bonus point which virtually seals the league title for them.

Oldham rallied well, however, and spurned two very kickable penalties and attacked with gusto.

The forwards drove 20 metres and crossed the line but couldn't ground the ball.

Prop Jack Sayle, lurking unseen wide of play, took a cross kick and went for what would have been a contender for try of the season, but was smothered close to line.

And twice Oldham were thwarted by MV's evergreen scrum half Pat Eccles, who single-handedly stopped what looked like two certain scores with clever positioning and tackling.

This was Oldham's most disciplined performance of the season.

No yellow cards, no "10 metres” for back chat and a positive mood throughout.

All 18 deserve the highest praise, and it’s probably a little invidious to single anyone out but young scrum half Lewis Ward, in only his second game, facing a fast and aggressive back row and a seasoned and talented 9, acquitted himself superbly and looks an excellent prospect.

A word of praise too for the referee Mr Snoddy for his fine performance, good man- management and splendid use of the advantage rule to aid the attacking side.

Oldham's next fixture in the fight against relegation is the crucial must-win home game against Liverpool Collegiate on March 16, the day of the club's annual reunion.

That is certain to bring the biggest crowd of the season to Manor Park.

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