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Latics 2 Blackburn Rovers 1

Last updated : 29 July 2003 By The Chairman
Athletic continued their pre-season build up with another victory over a jaded Blackburn Rovers team that had just returned from a US tour. Over 3,750 fans turned out and, with Rovers graciously waiving all rights to fees, ‘Trust Oldham’ received another boost of over £30,000 to the coffers. The band of following Blackburn fans should also be applauded for their contributions.


The Latics started brightly against a strong Blackburn team which included Cole, Yorke, Kelly, Janson, Flitcroft and Mahon. Recent signing Amoruso made his Rovers debut. Cole and Yorke had early chances for Blackburn with Yorke having one effort disallowed for impeding Pogliacomi. Triallist Paul Wheatcroft (pictured) opened the scoring for the Latics after 20 minutes following a great cross from Low on the right. His first header was saved by Kelly but the striker from Scunthorpe followed up with a second header high into the net.


Scott Vernon increased the Latics lead eight minutes into the second half from a stunning move which first saw Murray pass to Low, Low to Wheatcroft who back heeled back to Murray, who slipped the ball through to Vernon who calmly chipped over Kelly and into the net. All without a Rovers player touching the ball.

In the 62nd. minute Paul Gallagher reduced the arrears with a well taken goal. There then followed a spell of major substitutions as Iain Dowie tried to give everyone some playing time. This caused some confusion with some players having the same numbers on their backs.


The outstanding Latics players were Rob Walker who’s runs tormented the Blackburn side, Ernie Cooksey quickly becoming a cult hero with never-say-die attitude, Paul Wheatcroft, Danny Hall, Paul Murray and Darren Sheridan. Scott Vernon led the line well and Will Haining was massive in defence. Pogliacami came out well and Dean Holden appears to be getting back to his best.


If this team can continue to impress against City at the weekend the forthcoming season will not be one of doom and gloom. The team has the makings of a good squad. With a few additions and with Iain Dowie continuing to get the best out of his players, this squad will give us valuable breathing space to re-build the damage which was so cruelly inflicted by Chris Moore. Never say die. We are alive and kicking. Roll on Oldham.