Trafford MV Loose To Oldham 14-21

A firm downfield breeze gave the visitors a territorial first half platform that they used to good effect.

MV failed to get a grip of the game and allowed Oldham to run the ball and to look well in control of the game.

A steady flow of possession saw a score very early on and then with half time approaching Oldham struck twice in quick succession to go into the break 0-21 in front. The game looked sown up.

As the second half-opened MV captain Andy Quigley caught the kick off and a bursting run broke several tackles which put a relaxed Oldham on their back foot, the ball moved through good support runners who eventually put winger Jamie Kingdon over to the right of the posts with scrum half Pat Eccles converting 7-24.

Within minutes MV were to strike again, this time veteran Mark Hodgson received the kick off and set up good maul ball.

MV drove deep into the Oldham half and some good recycling of the ball put the defence under pressure which resulted in centre Freddie Ayears breaking through and crossing to the left of the uprights, Eccles again converted 14-21.

The second half was all MV as they tried their hardest to get the monkey, or is it a Gorilla, off their back. Too much effort maybe proved to be their failing. As forced passes went astray and desperate attempts at gaining possession brought penalties against them – time eventually ran out.

This was another losing bonus point for MV, which is some bonus, but the gap between MV and Littleborough above them is widening at 9 points. Next week is crucial for MV as they travel away to Aldwinians who sit just 1 point behind MV – A must win game for MV !