Bolton 1st XV 21 vs. 12 Oldham 1st XV

.Oldham started brighter and enjoyed some early possession in the Bolton half. However, Bolton's defence was up to the challenge and kept Oldham's aggressive and physical pack at bay. However, after Oldham had sufficiently sucked in Bolton's defence, there was space out wide for the away side to take the lead. The conversion was kicked and Bolton found themselves 7-0 behind.

In previous weeks, the cherry and whites might have crumbled after this early setback, but the rallied and gained a penalty inside the Oldham 22, which Pritchard duly converted. Bolton were very much on top now, with strong carries from Matthew Parrish and Ash Cooper in the pack and penetrating runs from Will Bate in the centre, giving Bolton an excellent platform upon which to attack.

The best chance came through prop Gareth "Taff" Evans, who after diving for the line from close range, was deemed by the referee to have made a double movement and the try was disallowed. It was just a matter of time though before Bolton got their first try. It was Pritchard who somehow rode a number of tackles, staying on his feet to power over under the posts. The converse was kicked and Bolton were 10-7 in the lead.

Bolton went in at half time with a deserved 10-7 lead.

Oldham came out strongly in the second period, and Bolton knew it was important to score the next points. This was achieved through a well taken drop goal from Pritchard, after good work from the pack at the breakdown.

A further penalty from Pritchard extended Bolton's lead, and when the inform fly half scythed through the Oldham defence to score his second, Bolton started to eye a bonus point.

To their credit, Oldham rallied and finished the match in the ascendency, scoring their second try of the match. Bolton hung on though and secured a valuable victory. They were kept at bay through strong tackling from Ash Cooper and Chris Mee, and excellent set piece work from Sam Hilton and John Stryker.

Although there were plenty of opportunities to gain a try bonus point, there are many positives to take into next weekend's derby against Bury.