Oldham 28

THIS proved to be a game between the rugby 'haves' and 'have nots'.

Oldham, with their coaching structure involving former England and Lancashire players Bob Kimmins and Kevin Williams, are so far unbeaten in the league this season and they met up with Trafford, a good amateur side who do not have comparable financial backing.

Trafford opened on a bright afternoon in superb running rugby conditions and it looked for a short time as if money counted for nothing as Trafford MV whipped into a 6-0 lead with two penalties from relief kicker Hope.

However the lead was shortlived as Oldhams influential back division began to expand their game.

With the ample frame of Kimmins bringing a steady flow of possession it seemed only a matter of time before Oldhams higher percentage of play was to take effect.

This was true as tries came from good handling move for Oldhams Flying winger Costello and scrum half Fitton.

The second half saw further scoring efforts from Jones and Quinlan as Oldhams win became convincing.

A conversion from Jones and two others from Fitton brought the games scoring to an end.

Traffords Skipper Greg Hawkins praised his forwards for a sterling effort in particular Gibbs, Packer and Shay, who unfortunately had to leave the field injured, however his praise for the back line was not as evident and quality players will surely need to be found if Trafford MV are to compete at the same level as the likes of Oldham.

The second XV's of Trafford MV and Oldham met for the 3rd time this season and it would be dififcult to find two better matched sides.

In a hard fought game with Oldham having a significant size advantage Traffords pack worked ceaselessly to get the upper hand.

Tries came for Trafford through Gallagher, S Peel and Ramsey with Gallagher also kicking two penalties and a conversion. The final score was 22-23 to a deserving Trafford MV.

Traffords 3rd XV had another great win defeating Oldham 17-8 in a firey encounter which was ably refereed by the inimitable Mike Pennington.

The 4th XV enjoyed a very even game against Toc H and came out with a brilliant 15-14 win led on by Matt Cove and with the eternal Pete Hunter at full back.

Trafford are back on the road this weekend with the 1st and 3rd XV's travelling to Calder Vale.

With no league points at stake in this game a couple of new faces are getting a run on the 1st XV with Simon Ramsey an John Edwards getting the call up from the second team back row to partner No. 8 Hawkins.

The 2nd and 4th XV's are at home kick off 2.30pm.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.