Oldham Rugby League Club have signed two more young players - half-back Kieran Tyrer, 21, from Wigan Warriors and utility back Mackenzie Turner, 20, from Leeds Rhinos.
Now fronted by new chairman Bill Quinn and four more new directors, including managing director Mike Ford, the Roughyeds have now signed 24 new players and released 13 as well as unveiling former St Helens and Great Britain star Sean Long as head coach.
“It’s an exciting time for all our fans,” said Ford, 57, himself a former Oldham star who has pledged to make his home town a “rugby league town” again.
He added: “Of all the players we’ll have next year, only Emmerson Whittel, Kian Morgan and Jordan Paga were here when the new board took over and that’s a massive turn-around. It’s remarkable, in fact. “
The board has changed the club’s name to Oldham RLFC 1876 Ltd to reflect its formation 147 years ago. Said Ford: “The club has a fantastic history. We are proud of that. It must never be forgotten.”
A glorious weekend and some impressive bowling performances in the First Division of the Derbyshire and Cheshire Cricket League, now proudly sponsored by Complete Weed Control.
On a baking hot day in the North East, Ashton Rugby Union Club saw off the challenge of York Railway Institute to lift the Papa Johns Challenge northern shield and, in doing so, secured the first national competition win in the club’s history.