Archive: Mar 2020

A Message from Oldham RLFC

A message from Oldham RLFC to all fans

The decision to suspend all competition was a difficult one for everybody, but the correct decision was made.

For many, there will be far greater concerns than the club at this time, but we know how strong our bond is with supporters.

The local community and family are at the core of our values as a club, but they feel more important than ever at this moment.

A plan is being implemented to protect both playing and non-playing staff from the virus, to attempt to ensure the club survives the uncertainty, but uncertainty is the only answer that we currently have and it will test our resolve to the limit. Our loyal fan base will be vital during this period. Season ticket holders and lottery members, I cannot thank you enough.

Your continued support will be critical throughout this period devoid of game-day income and we urge you to continue showing your support whilst we are not playing.

Fans willing to support the club during this period can do so by joining our lottery. There are numerous ways to join the lottery. We have introduced new payment pathways for those willing to support the club in any way they can.

Please see the link below for details:

Club Message

Everybody associated with the club are going to carry on doing the best we can. Whether you’re social distancing, in self-isolation or just trying to act more conscientiously, continue to be your best self. Act with kindness, stay connected to those vulnerable or lonely and stay responsible.

Thank you on behalf of the club.


Photo Archive – Can you help?

Although our photo archive is quite impressive there are some images of the players of Oldham RLFC that are missing or very poor in quality.

If you could fill in any of the gaps or provide a better quality photograph we would be glad to hear from you. Please contact the Trust via our email address: oldhamrl1895@gmail.com

Any addition to our collection is always greatly appreciated. Thanks.


Kevin Taylor RIP

March 2020

The Heritage Trust was sad to learn of the death of ex player Kevin Taylor. A member of the club’s ‘Hall of Fame’ with over 400 appearances for the Roughyeds.  

Kevin Taylor

Indeed, Kevin was one of only seven Oldham players in over 125 years of Rugby League in Oldham to top the 400 games mark with 429 senior games for the Roughyeds.

Born and brought up in the St Mary’s district of the town — an area that has produced numerous rugby league players of repute over the years — Kevin signed for Oldham shortly after his 16th birthday from the then Werneth club.

Originally understudy to Len McIntyre, he made his senior debut at Castleford in the harsh winter season of 1962-63. The next couple of years were spent mostly in the “A” team, but once Kevin got an extended run in the senior side, he would hold down the Oldham hooking position for the next decade. He was also a good player in the loose especially his support play, which twice led to him being top try scorer in 1966-67 & 67-68. In all he scored 60 tries for Oldham and kicked five goals.

Kevin was selected for the England Under 24 team against France in the match that was the first played under the new Watersheddings floodlights in October 1965 and went on to play for Lancashire and England. The full Great Britain international call up eluded him, yet week in and week out Kevin would rake out the ball on the Oldham side of the scrum against all his so-called peers. A model of consistency, Kevin played his last game at Salford on January 2nd, 1977 before moving on to Leigh. A great servant of the club and definitely one of the best hookers never to play for Great Britain!

The condolences of everyone at the Oldham Rugby League Heritage Trust go to all of Kevin’s family and friends.