Profile

Derek “Rocky” Turner, came to Oldham from Hull K.R., playing his first match against Hunslet on September 3rd 1955. A loose forward of immense power and fearless determination, Derek was seen by many as the last piece required to complete the puzzle that became the great team of the 1950s.

A born leader, with never a backward step, he demonstrated a terrific work rate on both attack and defence, giving everything in the eighty minutes while inspiring others to do the same and was always a thorn in the side of the opposition. Although it is interesting to note that he was never captain while at Watersheddings.

An integral part of the mid to late 1950s success of the club, his big regret was that the club never reached Wembley. Still history remembers Derek as one of the great Wembley captains after he led Wakefield Trinity to success at the famous London stadium in 1960, 1962 and 1963, the Yorkshire team instantly recognising his leadership qualities.

Derek won eleven caps during his time with Oldham and was selected for the 1958 tour only to withdraw because of injury. He would realise this ambition after his move to Wakefield on the 1962 tour.