Bolton 2nd XV v Oldham 2nd XV

that belied the appalling weather.

Number Eight Brad Cliff was the hat trick hero but all Bolton players contributed in a dominant performance. The front row bossed the line out and scrimmage giving the backs some good ball with Andrew Murtagh making some scything runs.

Special mention should go to Gareth 'Taff' Evans who showed glimpses of footwork that Barry John would be proud of.

Despite the one sided nature of the scoreline, Bolton will be under no illusions that next week's short trip to Wigan could define their season and decide weather promotion to Division One is up for grabs.