The Bulldogs grabbed a much needed victory in a crucial tie at Oldham.

The home side started strongest with 2 early tries before Batley hit back through Danny Cowling and Joel Farrell to level the scores at 10-10 after just 15 minutes. A quick-fire double from Winger Adam Clay restored Oldham’s 10-point advantage but The Dogs again pinned their hosts back as first Alistair Leak then Adam Gledhill scored, Southernwood converted both to level the scores going towards half-time. Dom Brambani was sin binned for a foul challenge just before the break and shortly after Scott Leatherbarrow and Cain Southernwood both had opportunities to give their sides a half time lead with penalties but were unable to hit the target.

12 man Batley made the perfect start to the second period though with a fabulous team move sending Wayne Reittie over in the corner, Southernwood adding an outstanding touchline conversion in the wind. A strong spell from Oldham saw them threaten the visitors’ line but great work from the Shaun Ainscough and the Batley defence held them off before Brambani returned to the fold and made an immediate impact dancing through the Oldham defence to score under the posts.

Southernwood added a penalty shortly after before first James Harrison then Tom Lillycrop raced over to put the game out of reach, the latter after more outstanding work from Brambani who’s day was ended prematurely in the dying seconds with a red card for dissent. From the resulting penalty, Oldham scored from close range on the hooter.

Final score of Oldham 28-48 Bulldogs.

Header Pic © Neville Wright