Local rivals Rochdale and Oldham Athletic went head to head on Saturday in the Youth Alliance but it was Oldham who came out on top with a 4-2 victory over their neighbours.
Once underway the game typified a local derby, with plenty of commitment and endeavour from both sides and chances at a premium in a lively first quarter.
However, it was the Latics who took the lead, when a ball in by Matt A. Carr resulted in Tom Eaves (pictured) heading home from close range. Dale’s Scott Hogan equalised before the break with a half volley into the far corner of the net.
The second half became a much more open affair and the Latics regained the lead on the hour mark when Djeny Bembo-Leta fired home an excellent left foot shot from 20 yards.
Dale grabbed an equaliser for a second time in the 70th minute. Following good wing play from Helio Andre, Dennis Sherriff finished well from close range.
With 15 minutes remaining, Oldham’s substitute Connor Hughes delivered a cross for Tom Eaves to rise and head home from 16 yards.
Their fourth goal came with five minutes to go, when a David Mellor free kick was met by Tom Eaves to complete a hat trick for the Latics.
