Key Points
- Oldham Athletic (RLFC) return to Challenge Cup action this weekend against Dewsbury Rams at Bower Fold to secure a fourth-round spot.
- Dewsbury remain unbeaten in 2026, with victories over Hunslet and Keighley, but face a stern test against Oldham.
- Fourth-round draw airs live on BBC Radio Manchester on February 9 at approximately 6:40pm if Oldham progress.
- Head coach Alan Kilshaw makes two squad changes: Jack Walker and Sam Littler in, replacing injured Ben O’Keefe and Ryan Lannon.
- O’Keefe and Lannon assessed midweek; club optimistic on short-term recovery; Matty Russell nears return for Widnes game; Iain Thornley out long-term.
- Full Oldham squad listed: 1. Jack Walker, 2. Kieran Dixon, 4. Ben Davies, 5. Jake Bibby, 6. Morgan Smith, 7. Riley Dean, 8. Jack Ormondroyd, 9. Matty Wildie, 10. Owen Farnworth, 11. Matty Ashurst, 13. Adam Milner, 14. Cole Geyer, 15. Ted Chapelhow, 16. Ewan Moore, 17. Emmanuel Waine, 18. Jaron Purcell, 19. Harvey Makin, 21. Tom Nisbet, 23. Josh Drinkwater, 24. Marcus Geener, 25. Sam Littler.
- Oldham seek first win over Dewsbury since 2017; favourites despite poor head-to-head record against League One fourth-placers from 2025.
- Dewsbury, under Paul March, won 10 of 18 in 2025; strong 2026 Championship start; new signings: Brad Graham (ex-Halifax), Tom Delaney (Wakefield loan), Bailey O’Connor (ex-Featherstone).
- Hospitality at Bower Fold: two-course meal or pie and peas, pre/post-match with Michael ‘Braddy’ Bradshaw.
- Merch: replica shirts, limited black/amber anniversary scarves, pin badges.
- Media: Audio commentary from 3pm via Roughyeds TV (Matt Horton); follow socials for updates.
Oldham (Manchester Mirror) February 06, 2026 – Oldham Rugby League Football Club (RLFC) gear up for a crucial Challenge Cup third-round clash against Dewsbury Rams at Bower Fold this Sunday, aiming to advance to the fourth round amid high stakes and team changes.
- Key Points
- Who Are Oldham’s Key Returnees for the Challenge Cup Tie?
- What Makes Dewsbury a Tough Opponent Despite Oldham’s Favouritism?
- How Has Dewsbury Strengthened for 2026?
- Why Choose Hospitality at Bower Fold?
- What Merchandise Awaits Oldham Fans?
- What Media Coverage Follows the Match?
- When Is the Challenge Cup Fourth-Round Draw?
Who Are Oldham’s Key Returnees for the Challenge Cup Tie?
Recently-appointed head coach Alan Kilshaw has introduced two changes to the 21-man squad from last week’s encounter. Jack Walker and Sam Littler enter the initial squad and are in contention for starting spots. They replace Ben O’Keefe and Ryan Lannon, who sustained injuries in the London Broncos game and will sit out this weekend. Both players underwent assessments during the week, with the club expressing optimism that the setbacks are not long-term.
Matty Russell edges closer to full fitness, now eyeing the Widnes fixture for his return, which affords him additional training time to sharpen his conditioning. Iain Thornley, however, remains sidelined long-term. The full squad comprises: 1. Jack Walker, 2. Kieran Dixon, 4. Ben Davies, 5. Jake Bibby, 6. Morgan Smith, 7. Riley Dean, 8. Jack Ormondroyd, 9. Matty Wildie, 10. Owen Farnworth, 11. Matty Ashurst, 13. Adam Milner, 14. Cole Geyer, 15. Ted Chapelhow, 16. Ewan Moore, 17. Emmanuel Waine, 18. Jaron Purcell, 19. Harvey Makin, 21. Tom Nisbet, 23. Josh Drinkwater, 24. Marcus Geener, 25. Sam Littler.
As shared via Roughyeds TV, head coach Alan Kilshaw previewed the Dewsbury match, stating insights accessible here.
What Makes Dewsbury a Tough Opponent Despite Oldham’s Favouritism?
A victory over Dewsbury would mark Oldham’s first triumph against the Rams since 2017. Despite a dismal recent record in head-to-heads, Oldham enter as clear favourites opposite the team that placed fourth in League One last year.
Dewsbury, guided by head coach Paul March, secured 10 wins from 18 outings in 2025 and have launched brightly into Championship life this year. The squad boasts reinforcements including ex-Halifax second row Brad Graham, winger Tom Delaney on loan from Wakefield, and former Featherstone centre Bailey O’Connor. Dewsbury’s 2026 form stands unbeaten, boasting wins over Hunslet and Keighley, though this weekend presents their sternest examination yet.
Progression could pit Oldham against a Super League heavyweight in the fourth round, with the draw broadcast live on BBC Radio Manchester on February 9 at around 6:40pm.
How Has Dewsbury Strengthened for 2026?
Under Paul March’s stewardship, Dewsbury’s 2025 League One campaign yielded 10 victories in 18 matches, culminating in fourth place. Their unbeaten streak persists into 2026 with successes against Hunslet and Keighley. Key additions – Brad Graham from Halifax, Tom Delaney (Wakefield loan), and Bailey O’Connor (ex-Featherstone) – bolster their ranks for the Championship challenge.
Why Choose Hospitality at Bower Fold?
Supporters can elevate their matchday with hospitality options at Bower Fold this Sunday. Choices include a two-course meal or a homemade pie and peas, served pre-match. Pre- and post-match presentations, hosted by compere Michael ‘Braddy’ Bradshaw, unfold in Stalybridge’s superior facilities, featuring a bar with draught beers and a wide spirits selection.
Hospitality tickets remain on sale; purchase here.
What Merchandise Awaits Oldham Fans?
The mobile shop resumes operation on Sunday, offering replica shirts alongside brand-new, limited-edition black and amber anniversary scarves and pin badges. Fans are encouraged to stock up on these exclusives at Bower Fold.
What Media Coverage Follows the Match?
Audio-only commentary launches at 3pm on Sunday, Wi-Fi permitting. Matt Horton mans the hotseat with George absent. The free stream activates from 3pm, barring connectivity hitches at Bower Fold. Followers should track all social channels to catch every moment.
The club urges subscriptions, follows, likes, comments, shares, and engagement across media content, which rivals any in rugby league and aids their IMG score.
When Is the Challenge Cup Fourth-Round Draw?
Should Oldham advance past Dewsbury, their next opponents emerge during the live draw on BBC Radio Manchester, February 9, circa 6:40pm. This broadcast holds pivotal intrigue for cup hopefuls.
Oldham’s campaign hinges on this tie, blending squad rotation, injury management, and fan engagement against a resilient Dewsbury. Bower Fold anticipates a charged atmosphere as the Roughyeds chase cup glory. Head coach Kilshaw’s adjustments signal intent, while Dewsbury’s reinforcements and form promise competitiveness. With affordable entry, hospitality perks, and comprehensive coverage, supporters have every reason to attend. This fixture encapsulates rugby league’s blend of history, rivalry, and ambition – Oldham’s first Rams win since 2017 looms large.
