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Boss Mercer left to rue costly injuries

29/ 6/2005

OLDHAM coach Gary Mercer was left bemoaning his wafer-thin squad following Friday's 28-14 against Halifax at Sedgley Park.

With James Kirkland (mumps) and Chris Hough (mouth) ruled out before kick-off, the last thing Mercer needed was the departure of pack leader Ricky Bibey.

Mercer said: "They have got 40 players to choose from and we have 19.

"The lads had a go right to the end and there were times when we had good positions that I thought we were going to score from but we didn't."

Apart from the first-half show, another positive to emerge from Friday night was the performance of Marty Turner.

After a slow start, the half-back has started to produce improved displays.

Mercer said: "Marty's absolute quality. He needed a go-forward pack and, if we can get him some time, he can direct the team well."

As for Sunday's match against Featherstone, again at Sedgely Park, Mercer will be waiting on the fitness of Bibey, Gareth Barber, Tere Glassie and Mark Roberts.

• OLDHAM chairman Chris Hamilton has claimed there has been a thawing of the frost between the club and Oldham Rugby Independent Supporters Association (ORISA).

Relations between the two parties have been strained for some time, but it appears peace has finally broken out.

He said: "We've had a meeting with them which they requested because of the club's situation and we have agreed a way forward.

"They are happy to be raising funds and helping us to proceed and they are getting on with that as we speak."