Oldham Athletic pay tribute to Manchester’s heroes

Saturday proved to be a perfect day for Oldham Athletic, defeating Northampton Town 5-1 and moving further clear of the League One relegation zone in a match dedicated to the emergency services of Greater Manchester. 

2017 has been an extremely tough year for the services of Greater Manchester, with the arena terror attack placing increased pressure on everyone in the city. However, on a night where many stood still in shock, the services of Manchester burst into action, showing incredible examples of bravery. 

 Billy Quarmby, Oldham FC head of commercial:

 “Its a fantastic initiative put together by the club. the work that they do is phenomenal, brought to light when the attack happened in Manchester. Men and Women going into what you can only describe as a war zone. it was fantastic to see how Manchester came  together and supported the services.

“They can expect a warm, welcome from stewards, staff and even their own fans. Its very much a family club here, and they can expect a very entertaining football match”.

Hundreds of service men and women were in attendance to see the Latics thrash Northampton. Before the game, members of Greater Manchester Police, Fire and Paramedics took the time to speak to the public, and gave fans the opportunity to show their support.

Nick Pine, of Chadderton Fire and Rescue, was delighted with the public’s response to their work and honored by the clubs superb sign of respect. 

Mark Moisley, Oldham Athletic Chief Executive, spoke about the clubs aims for services day and what the visiting men and women could expect.

Heavy snowfall overnight meant that the pitch was covered in snow, though thanks to a group of generous volunteers as well as a number of staff and players, the pitch was cleared in time and the game went ahead.

Oldham dominated the game throughout, with the midfield three of Byrne, Fane and Gardener controlling the game, making it very difficult for the Cobblers to get a foot in the game.

Two goals from the superb jack Byrne, and a header from Tope Odabeyi had Oldham 3-0 up at half time.

The visitors did pull a goal back in the second half after some questionable defending from the hosts, but Gevaro Nepomuceno and Craig Davies ensured it was a happy services day all round for the blues.