john in oz

Sad to see the passing of John Etty. I was privileged to see him play in that illustrious team of the 1950s. Fondly remembered and respected both as an Oldham and Batley player.

I’m with you Bert. For that short period he was with us the level of performance of the whole team rose due to his leadership. Hard as nails and skilled with ball in hand or at foot, he could turn any game on his own.

Should have also said that Swinton were the last team to play Oldham in the final game at Watersheddings.

Good luck to all concerned at Swinton for your special day. As an Oldham supporter I always had a soft spot for Swinton. In the late 50's as I recall Oldham used to play Swinton at Watersheddings on Xmas Day and at Station Road on Good Friday. Also memories of Test Matches against Australia at Station Road and the heartbreak of the Challenge Cup Semi Final replay between Oldham and Hull KR, when the match was abandoned due to fading light (no floodlights in those days) with Oldham leading, only to be then beaten in the third game at Huddersfield. Have a great day on Sunday.