Oldham Hulenians Reserves 1-0 Hesketh Casuals ‘B’

Hesketh Casuals returned from Oldham perplexed at dominating a game and emerging without a point. For 90 minutes the away side pressed the Oldham side and created numerous chances but were unable to draw level after the home side luckily took the lead.

After Cassies were redirected to an alternative pitch, leaving them little time to warm-up, the game began in blistering heat. Early on Oldham won a free kick 25 yards out and their strikers effort somehow crept through Valentines grasp and into the net. Despite this early setback the away side created a number of chances with Paul Hames and Justin Parr forcing the keeper into some decent saves.

Andy Walker was working tirelessly on the right and new signing Craig Winny Winstanley was showing great composure in the centre of midfield, with able assistance from Lloyd and Fellowes. The solid defence of Forshaw, Tomlinson, Hames and MacGregor kept Oldham at bay and restricted them to a couple of long range efforts.

Winstanley tried his luck from range and the second half saw another array of chances for the visitors. Paul Hames, who picked up and injury early on, missed a gilt-edged chance when his close-range header narrowly missed the post after great work from Forshaw.

Oldham were lucky to end with the three points and despite the excellent performance from Casuals they left feeling frustrated a losing such a one-sided goals. If they continue to play similar football then the goals will inevitably come.

Dave Tomlinson was immense at left back but man of the match was duly awarded to Winny.